We’ve all been there — you close the door behind you and suddenly realise your keys are still inside. It’s frustrating, stressful, and can happen to anyone. Whether it’s late at night or during a busy morning, being locked out of your own home can feel overwhelming.
Don’t panic — there are several safe and practical solutions to help you regain access. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do when you’re locked out of your house, when to call a locksmith near me, and how to avoid it happening again.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first: stay calm. Panic won’t help, and there’s often a simple solution. Check if you’ve left any other doors or windows unlocked. Sometimes, a back door, side gate, or garage entrance might still be accessible.
⚠️ Safety Tip: Never try to force a door or break a window — it can cause injury and expensive damage.
2. Check for Spare Keys
Ask yourself:
- Do you have a spare key hidden outside (securely, not under the doormat)?
- Did you give a copy to a trusted neighbour, family member, or friend?
If yes, now’s the time to call them. Having a spare key holder you can rely on can save you time and money.
If you don’t have a spare key — make a note to get one made once you’re back inside.
3. Try All Entry Points Safely
Walk around your home and look for alternative ways in:
- Is there an unlocked back door?
- Can you open a window safely without causing damage?
- If you live in an apartment, check if maintenance staff can assist.
If you rent your property, your landlord or property manager might have a duplicate key. It’s worth giving them a quick call before contacting a locksmith.
4. Avoid DIY “Lock Picking” Tricks
You might have seen online videos showing how to open locks with a card or pin, but in reality, these methods rarely work and often cause damage.
Modern locks are designed to prevent these techniques. Instead of trying to pick or pry your lock, it’s safer (and cheaper in the long run) to call a mobile locksmith near me who can unlock your door professionally without harming your lock.
5. Call a Professional Locksmith
If you’ve checked all options and still can’t get in, it’s time to call a 24 hour locksmith. Professional locksmiths are trained to open doors quickly and safely, often within minutes.
Why call a professional locksmith?
- Non-destructive entry: They can unlock most doors without damage.
- Available anytime: Many offer emergency locksmith service 24/7.
- Additional help: They can make you a new key, rekey your lock, or upgrade your security on the spot.
A local locksmith near me can reach you fast, especially if you’re locked out late at night or in bad weather.
6. Consider Rekeying or Replacing Your Locks
If you’ve lost your keys and can’t find them, it’s wise to rekey or replace your locks. Someone might find your lost keys and know where you live — so this step adds an extra layer of protection.
A locksmith can rekey your existing locks so the old keys no longer work, or install new, high-security locks for peace of mind.
7. Prevent Future Lockouts
Once you’re safely back inside, take some proactive steps to avoid future lockouts:
- Get a spare key: Keep one with a trusted friend or family member.
- Install a keyless entry system: Smart locks let you unlock your door with a code or smartphone.
- Use a smart tracker: Attach a Bluetooth tracker to your keychain to locate lost keys easily.
- Make it a habit: Before leaving, always check your keys are in your hand or bag.
🗝️ Tip: Many modern smart locks can be installed by a mobile locksmith near me in under an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much does it cost to hire a locksmith for a house lockout?
Costs vary by location and time of day, but most locksmiths charge between $80–$150 for a standard home lockout service.
Q2: Can a locksmith open any lock?
Yes, a licensed locksmith can open most locks, including deadbolts, smart locks, and keyless entry systems, without damage.
Q3: How long does it take to unlock a house door?
Most locksmiths can unlock standard doors within 10–20 minutes.
Q4: Should I replace my locks after losing my keys?
If you’re unsure where the keys went, rekeying or replacing your locks is highly recommended for security.
Getting locked out of your home can be stressful, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to ruin your day. Start by checking for spare keys and safe entry points, and if all else fails, call a trusted emergency locksmith service for quick, damage-free assistance.
Once you’re back inside, take a few extra steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again — like having spare keys or installing a smart lock system.