What to Do When You Are Locked Out of Your House
First, do not panic. Getting locked out happens to thousands of people every week. Stay calm, check your options, and if you need help, call a local locksmith who does not charge a call-out fee. In most cases, you will be back inside within 30 minutes.
Standing on your own doorstep with no keys is a horrible feeling. Maybe the door blew shut behind you. Maybe you have lost your keys somewhere. Maybe the lock has jammed and your key just will not turn. Whatever happened, here is a step-by-step guide on what to do next.
Step-by-Step: What to Do Right Now
1. Stay calm and check all entry points
Before you call anyone, walk around the property and check every door and window. Is the back door unlocked? Is there a window slightly open? People often find they have left a side gate unlocked or a kitchen window on the vent. If you find an open window on the ground floor, you may be able to reach in and open it fully. But do not climb up to first-floor windows or force anything. It is not worth the risk.
2. Check whether someone else has a key
Does a partner, family member, housemate or neighbour have a spare? Ring around before you call a locksmith. If someone can bring a key to you within a reasonable time, that is the cheapest solution. It is also worth checking whether you have a key hidden anywhere, though we would generally advise against leaving keys under doormats or plant pots for security reasons.
3. Do not try to force the door
We know it is tempting, especially if you are cold, tired, or have kids in the car. But kicking a door or shouldering it will almost certainly cause damage to the door, the frame, or the lock mechanism. That damage will cost far more to repair than a locksmith call-out. And if a neighbour calls the police because they see someone forcing a door, you will have an even more stressful evening ahead of you.
4. Call a local locksmith
If you cannot get in any other way, it is time to call a locksmith. Here is what to look for when choosing one.
- Ask if there is a call-out fee. A decent locksmith should not charge you just to turn up.
- Get a price estimate on the phone. They cannot give you an exact price without seeing the door, but they should be able to give you a ballpark figure.
- Ask about non-destructive entry. A good locksmith will try to pick or bypass the lock first, rather than drilling it out as a default.
- Check Google reviews quickly. Even a 30-second scan of reviews will tell you whether a locksmith is trustworthy.
5. Stay safe while you wait
If it is late at night or you feel unsafe, go to a neighbour's house and wait there. If you are on your own and it is cold, sit in your car with the heater on. Do not stand outside in the dark for 30 minutes if there is a warmer, safer alternative nearby.
6. Consider a lock upgrade once you are back inside
If you got locked out because you lost your keys, think about changing the locks. You have no idea who might find those keys, and if your address is on a keyring tag or in a nearby bag, your home could be vulnerable. A lock change takes about 15 minutes and gives you complete peace of mind.
How We Handle Lockouts
When you call us, here is what happens. We pick up the phone, you tell us what has happened, and we give you an honest idea of the cost and how quickly we can get to you. No call-out fee, ever.
When we arrive, we assess the lock and try non-destructive entry first. In the majority of lockouts, we can pick or bypass the lock cleanly, which means there is no damage to your door and no cost for a replacement lock. You are back inside quickly and cheaply.
If the lock cannot be picked, usually because of an anti-pick or anti-bump mechanism, we will need to drill the cylinder. But even then, your door is not damaged. We simply fit a new cylinder before we leave, so your home is fully secure. We always confirm the price before we start any work, and if we cannot get you in, you do not pay.
We cover the whole of Greater Manchester for emergency lockouts and aim to be with you within 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get back into your house if locked out?
In Manchester, a non-destructive lockout typically costs between £69 and £100. If the cylinder needs to be drilled and replaced, expect to pay £89 to £140 including the new lock. We never charge a call-out fee, so the price you are quoted is the total price.
Can a locksmith open a door without breaking it?
Yes, in the majority of cases. A skilled locksmith can pick or bypass most domestic locks without causing any damage to the door. Non-destructive entry is always our first approach. We only resort to drilling the cylinder if picking is not possible, and even then the door itself is not damaged. We just fit a new cylinder.
How long does it take for a locksmith to arrive?
We aim to reach you within 30 minutes in Manchester and the surrounding areas. Response times depend on where you are and how busy we are, but same-day service is standard for lockout calls.
Should I try to break into my own house?
We would not recommend it. Forcing a door or window risks serious damage that will cost far more to repair than a locksmith call-out. You could also injure yourself or alarm your neighbours. It is better to call a locksmith and wait the 20 to 30 minutes for a professional to do it properly.
Locked Out Right Now?
Call us and we will be with you fast. No call-out fee, non-destructive entry where possible, and a fixed price before we start.
Call Now: 07411 496213