What to Do When You’re Locked Out of Your House

Being locked out of your home is stressful, inconvenient, and often happens at the worst possible time. Your instinct may be to try to force your way in, but there are better approaches that do not risk injury or damage to your home. Here is a step-by-step guide for handling a lockout calmly and getting back inside safely.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Check All Entry Points

Before calling anyone, systematically check every possible entry point. Try all doors — front, back, side, and garage. Check first-floor windows — you may have left one unlocked. Check the garage door, especially if you have a keypad entry on the garage that leads to an interior door. If you have a smart lock or keypad, try entering your code. Check if anyone else has a key — your spouse, neighbor, landlord, or family member may be able to let you in.

Step 2: Call a Licensed Locksmith

If no alternative entry exists, call a reputable locksmith. A professional locksmith can open most residential locks without damage in 5 to 15 minutes. The cost for a residential lockout typically ranges from $50 to $150 during business hours and $100 to $250 for after-hours or emergency service.

When choosing a locksmith, especially in an urgent situation, protect yourself from scams:

• Call a locally established company, not just the first Google result — scam locksmith operations often dominate online ads
• Ask for a price estimate before they come — legitimate locksmiths can give a range based on your lock type
• Verify they will arrive in a marked vehicle with company identification
• Ask for a business card and receipt
• Be wary of anyone who immediately suggests drilling or replacing the lock — most lockouts can be resolved without destroying the lock
• Never agree to a price that was significantly higher than the original quote

Step 3: What NOT to Do

In the frustration of a lockout, people sometimes make choices that cause far more damage than the lockout itself. Do not try to kick the door in — you will likely damage the door, frame, and your foot. Do not try to pick the lock with bobby pins or credit cards unless you have actual training — you will likely damage the lock mechanism, making professional entry harder and more expensive. Do not break a window — replacement glass costs $200 to $500 or more, and you risk serious cuts. Do not try to enter through the roof or second-story windows — falls from height cause serious injuries every year.

Preventing Future Lockouts

Once you are back inside, take steps to prevent this from happening again:

• Install a keypad or smart lock: Eliminate the possibility of key-based lockouts entirely. Even a simple keypad deadbolt ($75 to $150) removes the risk.
• Hide a spare key wisely: If you must hide a key outside, use a combination lockbox mounted in an inconspicuous location — not under the mat, above the door frame, in a fake rock, or in the mailbox. Burglars know all the common hiding spots.
• Give a spare to a trusted neighbor: A trusted neighbor with your spare key is the simplest and most secure backup.
• Key tracking habits: Designate a specific spot inside your home where keys always go — a hook by the door, a bowl on the counter, or a key organizer. Building the habit of always placing keys in the same spot dramatically reduces lockouts.

Special Situations

If you are locked out with children or pets inside the home, or if there is an emergency situation (fire, gas leak, medical emergency), call 911. First responders can force entry when safety is at risk. If you are locked out of a rental property, contact your landlord or property manager — they are required to provide access and should have a spare key.

Our team at Lock Security Pros provides fast, professional lockout service with no damage to your lock or door. We also install keyless entry systems that prevent future lockouts entirely. Contact us 24/7 for emergency lockout assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am locked out of my home?

Stay calm and check all doors and windows for an unlocked entry point before calling a locksmith. If you cannot find alternative access, contact a licensed locksmith who offers emergency services. Avoid attempting to force the lock yourself, as this can cause expensive damage to the door and lock mechanism. A professional locksmith can typically gain entry without damage within thirty minutes of arrival. When considering locksmith services for your property, it’s important to work with licensed and experienced professionals who understand local requirements and industry best practices. A qualified locksmith services provider will assess your specific situation, provide transparent pricing, and ensure the work meets all applicable standards. For personalized advice tailored to your needs, contact Lock Security Pros for a free consultation.

What is the difference between rekeying and replacing locks?

Rekeying involves changing the internal pins of an existing lock so old keys no longer work, while the lock hardware stays the same. Lock replacement involves removing the entire lock mechanism and installing new hardware. Rekeying is more affordable and ideal when your existing locks are in good condition. Full replacement is recommended when locks are worn, damaged, or you want to upgrade to higher-security models. When considering locksmith services for your property, it’s important to work with licensed and experienced professionals who understand local requirements and industry best practices. A qualified locksmith services provider will assess your specific situation, provide transparent pricing, and ensure the work meets all applicable standards. For personalized advice tailored to your needs, contact Lock Security Pros for a free consultation.

How often should I rekey or change my locks?

You should rekey or change locks whenever you move into a new home, after losing keys, following a break-in or attempted break-in, after ending a relationship with someone who had keys, and when keys have been in the possession of contractors or service providers. As a general practice, rekeying every few years provides added security. Rekeying is more affordable than full lock replacement and equally effective. When considering locksmith services for your property, it’s important to work with licensed and experienced professionals who understand local requirements and industry best practices. A qualified locksmith services provider will assess your specific situation, provide transparent pricing, and ensure the work meets all applicable standards. For personalized advice tailored to your needs, contact Lock Security Pros for a free consultation.