A quality safe provides security for your valuables or vital documents in the event of a break-in or a fire. However, peace of mind can come at a high price. If you're concerned about the high cost of a new safe, you may be able to find a refurbished older safe that will provide the same protection at a more affordable price. When looking for a refurbished safe, there are a few things to bear in mind. 

Refurbishing process

Second hand safes can be anything from units that were used only a short time to those that have given years of service. What they all have in common is that engineers have restored them to their original condition -- or even improved them. For instance, many older safes have their mechanical locks replaced with modern digital locks as part of the refurbishment process. If you have any doubts about what you're buying, ask your vendor about the exact process used to restore the safe you're considering. Common procedures including checking for sagging door hinges and removing internal and external rust.

Seller guarantees

Refurbished safes don't come with the same manufacturer warranties as new ones, of course, but that doesn't mean that they're completely unprotected. Ask your vendor what kind of warranty they provide and how it compares to the warranty on a new safe. A comparable warranty indicates strong confidence on the locksmith's part in the refurbishment process and gives you the same kind of protection you would have with a new safe. 

The importance of flexibility

Shopping for a second hand safe isn't quite like shopping for a new one. When you're looking for a new safe, you'll probably compare the characteristics of different models, settle on the one you like best and then look for the best price on that model. With refurbished safes, dealer stock varies so much that you may not have any luck finding the specific model you want, especially if it's a newer safe. Instead, look at the safe models on offer and see which ones suits your needs best. If there's a particular safe you really have your heart set on and you can't find it in stock with a local locksmith, it can't hurt to ask. Many vendors have a backlog of safes waiting to be refurbished. If they have the one you're looking for, they may be willing to bump it to the front of the queue. 

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