Locking yourself out of your house is frustrating and inconvenient but it happens to everyone at some point. Whether it’s a lost house key, a locked door that won’t open or an electronic door lock that’s malfunctioning there are solutions to get you back in.
Here’s a step by step guide to help you through this stressful situation.
1. Stay Calm and Don’t Freak Out
When you find yourself locked out of your house the most important thing to do is stay calm. Things happen and freaking out will only make it harder to think clearly. Remember locking yourself out is a solvable problem not a big problem.
2. Check All Entry Points
Unlocked Doors and Windows
- Check for unlocked doors, back doors, side doors or patio doors.
- Check for unlocked windows on the first floor. Be careful when opening windows not to break them.
Hidden Spare Keys
A good idea is to hide a spare key. If you’ve hidden a spare key outside (in a hide-a-key box or under a rock) now’s the time to get it.
If you don’t have a spare consider giving one to a trusted friend or family member in the future.
3. Call Someone You Know
Calling a trusted neighbour, family member or friend with a spare key is the easiest solution. If you’re in an apartment complex a building manager or maintenance team may be able to let you in.
4. Try DIY Methods
Using a Hard Plastic Card
- Insert a hard plastic card (like an old gift card) into the latch of a standard door lock.
- Slide the card perpendicular to the door to release the lock.
- Be careful not to damage the door or card.
Straightened Bobby Pins or Paper Clips
- Some locks can be opened with bobby pins or paper clips. Straighten the tool and insert it into the lock and manipulate the pins.
- This takes skill and patience and won’t work on most door locks especially modern locks.
Pin-Hole in Doorknobs
If your front door or other doors have a pin-hole you can use a straightened paper clip or bobby pin to open it.
5. Don’t Force Entry
Using too much force to get into your house can damage your door locks, windows or door frames. This will require specialist tools and professional repairs and cost more in the long run.
6. Call a Professional Locksmith
If you can’t get back in it’s best to call a locksmith like The Locksmith Cardiff. Locksmiths have the tools and expertise to open locked doors and gain entry or fix broken locks without causing unnecessary damage.
What to Expect from a Locksmith
- Emergency Services: Locksmiths are available outside of business hours.
- Specialist Tools: They have the tools to open your door safely.
- Expert Advice: Locksmiths can recommend upgrades like smart locks or electronic door locks to prevent future lockouts.
7. Other Options
The Fire Brigade
In extreme cases if there’s a risk to your safety (like being locked out with a child or pet inside) the fire brigade may be able to help. But only as a last resort.
8. Prevent Future Lockouts
Upgrade to a Smart Lock
Smart locks or electronic door locks allow you to open your door with your smartphone or keypad, no more house keys.
Keep Extra Keys Safe
- Give a spare key to a trusted friend, family member or neighbour.
- Use a lockbox to store an extra key in a safe and hidden spot.
Get into a Routine
Always check you have your keys before you leave the house to avoid being locked out.
Conclusion
Being locked out of your house is a common but solvable problem. From trying unlocked doors to calling a locksmith there are many ways to get back in without damaging your door locks or compromising security. Plan ahead by making spare keys, upgrading to smart locks or giving a spare to a trusted neighbour to prevent future lockouts.