Locked Out of Your House? What to Do Before Calling a Locksmith
Getting locked out of your house can happen to anyone. You may have left your keys inside, lost them while out, or found that your lock suddenly will not work.
When you are standing outside your property, it can be easy to panic and try to force the door open. However, this can cause damage to your door, lock or frame and may make the situation more expensive to fix.
Before you do anything, take a moment and follow these simple steps.
Check If You Have Another Way Into the Property
First, check whether there is another safe way to get inside.
You may have:
- A back door that is unlocked
- Another accessible entrance
- A spare key with a family member
- A trusted neighbour who has your spare key
- A landlord or property manager who can help
Only use an alternative entrance if it is safe and you have permission to access the property.
Check Your Keys
If you have your keys with you, check that you are using the correct key for the door.
If the key goes into the lock but will not turn, avoid forcing it. The issue could be a faulty lock, a damaged key or a problem with the door alignment.
If you have a spare key available, you can try that carefully.
Do Not Try to Force the Door
One of the biggest mistakes people make when locked out is trying to force their way inside.
Using tools, kicking the door or putting excessive pressure on the handle can damage the door and locking mechanism.
It could also make the situation worse and leave you with a damaged door that needs additional repairs.
If the door is locked and you cannot get inside, a professional locksmith can assess the lock and use the appropriate method to regain access.
Check Whether the Lock Is the Problem
Sometimes you are not actually locked out because of a lost key.
The lock itself may have failed.
You may notice signs such as:
- The key will not turn
- The key turns but the door does not open
- The handle is stuck
- The lock feels loose
- The key has snapped inside the lock
- The door has suddenly become difficult to close or lock
If the lock has failed, a locksmith can identify the problem and advise whether it needs repairing or replacing.
What If You Have Lost Your Keys?
If your keys have been lost outside your property, think about whether someone could identify your address from them.
If you are concerned that your keys may have been found by someone who knows where you live, replacing or upgrading the lock can be a sensible security measure.
A locksmith can check the existing lock and recommend a suitable replacement if required.
What If Your Key Has Snapped in the Lock?
Do not try to push the broken part further into the lock.
Trying to remove it with unsuitable tools could damage the cylinder.
A professional locksmith has specialist tools for removing broken keys and can assess the lock afterwards to see whether it is still suitable for use.
What If You Are Locked Out at Night?
Being locked out is particularly stressful late at night or in bad weather.
If you cannot safely wait outside or access another entrance, look for a safe place nearby while arranging professional help.
LockFirst provides a 24/7 emergency locksmith service across North West London, including Cricklewood, Golders Green, Hampstead, Belsize Park, Swiss Cottage, St John’s Wood and Primrose Hill.
How Much Does a Locksmith Cost?
The cost of locksmith work can depend on the type of lock, the problem and the work required.
Before work starts, ask the locksmith what the total cost will be and whether there are any additional charges.
LockFirst provides fixed pricing and no call-out fees, with the price agreed before work begins.
Can a Locksmith Open My Door Without Damaging It?
In many situations, a professional locksmith can regain entry without causing unnecessary damage.
The method used depends on the type of lock, the condition of the door and the reason you are locked out.
A locksmith should first assess the situation before deciding what method is appropriate.
What Should I Do After Getting Back Inside?
Once you have regained access, check why you were locked out in the first place.
If the problem was caused by:
- A faulty lock
- A damaged key
- A worn cylinder
- A stiff multipoint mechanism
- A door that is not closing correctly
it is worth getting the issue checked rather than waiting for it to happen again.
If you lost your keys, consider whether replacing the cylinder would give you greater peace of mind.
When Should You Call a Locksmith?
You should consider contacting a locksmith if:
- You have lost your keys
- Your key has snapped
- Your key will not turn
- Your lock has stopped working
- You cannot secure your property
- Your door will not open
- Your lock has been damaged
- You have been locked out late at night
A professional locksmith can identify the problem and explain your available options.
Emergency Locksmith Services in North West London
LockFirst provides 24/7 emergency locksmith services across North West London.
The team helps homeowners, landlords, letting agents and businesses with lockouts, lock repairs, lock replacements, burglary repairs and other door security problems.
LockFirst covers areas including Cricklewood, Golders Green, Hampstead, Belsize Park, Swiss Cottage, St John’s Wood and Primrose Hill.
For emergency locksmith assistance, call 07468 305302.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am locked out of my house?
Check whether you have a spare key or another safe entrance first. If you cannot get inside, contact a professional locksmith rather than forcing the door.
Can a locksmith open a locked house door?
A professional locksmith can assess the lock and use an appropriate entry method based on the type of lock and the circumstances.
Should I replace my locks after losing my keys?
If you are concerned that someone could identify your property from the lost keys, replacing the cylinder or lock can improve your security.
What should I do if my key is stuck in the lock?
Do not force it. Applying too much pressure could damage the key or cylinder. A locksmith can safely assess the problem.
Can I get a locksmith at night?
Yes. LockFirst provides a 24/7 emergency locksmith service across North West London.
How quickly can a locksmith arrive?
LockFirst aims to reach emergency customers within around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the location and circumstances.
Locked Out? LockFirst Can Help
If you are locked out of your home or business, avoid forcing the door or damaging the lock.
LockFirst provides 24/7 emergency locksmith services across North West London, with fixed pricing and no call-out fee.
Call 07468 305302 for assistance.