Locked Out of Your House? What to Do, Step by Step
Being locked out is stressful, especially at night or in bad weather. Take a breath: in most cases you can be back inside within the hour without any damage to your door. Here is what to do, in order.
1. Check every way in — safely
Walk round the property and check the back door, patio doors and any side or garage door that leads into the house. Do not climb to upstairs windows, and do not break glass — a replacement pane plus boarding up costs far more than a locksmith.
2. Think about spare keys
Who else has a key? A partner, family member, neighbour, your landlord or letting agent. If you rent, your landlord or agent may be able to let you in or tell you who holds a spare.
3. If someone vulnerable is inside, call 999
If a young child, a vulnerable adult or a pet is inside on their own, or something is cooking or running, call 999 straight away. That is an emergency, not a locksmith job.
4. Call a locksmith — and ask the right questions
Before anyone sets off, ask:
- Is there a call-out fee? We never charge one.
- What is the total price for opening my door? Get a fixed figure, not “from £X plus extras”.
- Will you try non-destructive entry first? Most standard locks can be opened without drilling.
- Am I speaking to the person who will come out? Call centres often pass jobs on to whoever bids lowest.
5. Have proof that you live there
A genuine locksmith will ask for proof of residence before opening the door, such as a driving licence or a utility bill with the address on it, or confirmation from a neighbour or landlord. If your ID is inside, we can check it once the door is open, before we leave.
6. Non-destructive entry first
Most nightlatches, Euro cylinders and uPVC doors can be opened without damage. Drilling is a last resort, and a good locksmith tells you before doing it and what the replacement lock will cost. Over 95% of the lockouts we attend are opened without a mark.
7. Avoid the next one
- Leave a spare key with someone you trust, not under the mat or a plant pot
- If your door locks automatically behind you (a nightlatch), get into the habit of carrying the key out every time
- If your key has been stiff for a while, get the lock looked at before it fails completely
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get back into my house?
With us, a standard daytime lockout costs from £49, plus £20–£30 out of hours. There is no call-out fee, and you get a fixed price on the phone first.
Will the locksmith damage my door?
Usually not. Most standard locks open non-destructively. If a high-security lock cannot be, a good locksmith tells you before drilling and what a replacement costs.
Can a locksmith let me in if I rent?
Yes, for a property you live in. We ask for proof of residence. If you cannot provide it, we may need confirmation from your landlord or agent.
Need a Locksmith Right Now?
📞 07486 889391 — 24/7, no call-out fee, typically with you in around 30 minutes. Or WhatsApp a photo of your door for a fixed quote before anyone travels.