The process of being locked out
July 29, 2025
Locked out? Take a minute and read this.
A large number of Locksmith jobs come from people being locked out . It can be a very stressful situation when you don't know what to do so here we go through multiple things that should be ticked off a list ensuring that you can stay calm.
1.
The realisation you are locked out. This can be due to a few different reasons and each reason is handled the same way more or less. You may have just left the keys inside the door , or inside the house and the door has just shut behind you. Maybe you get back home put your hands in your pockets/ handbag and realise the keys aren't there. Once you realise you don't have keys to gain access to your property take a deep breath. No matter what happens you will be able to get in so there is nothing to worry about.
2.
Making 100% sure you know where your keys are, whether that's double checking the car or calling your friends to make sure they aren't there. Getting your keys may be the easiest way to gain access to your property, especially in the case of high security locks. Regardless of whether you can get the keys to use or not, it's best to know where they are. If you can't find your keys and know they are lost we can move on to solving the problem.
3.
Check your windows or back door. Often in cases of people getting locked out with the door slamming behind them it's due to a window being open, crosswind. If your property is on the ground floor and you have left a window open, problem solved. Maybe you didn't lock the back door, you just went to get the delivery, problem solved. Double check the windows, as often they are not fully locked and in some cases by jiggling the window you can release the latch . Just be sure to lock up properly when you do intend to leave the house.
4.
Check with a neighbour or close (proximity) relative for a spare key. This can be the best solution and we advise all homeowners to bestow a spare key on a trusted relative who lives nearby, or a trusted neighbour. Provided you have two different locks on your door, only one will lock you out when the door closes, give that key to the neighbour that way you can deadlock your door and they still can't access it when you go on holiday.
5.
Failed lock scenario. In cases like this even after gaining access to the property due to the lock not function the door won't be accessible. As this can pose a fire hazard it's best to contact a local emergency locksmith service to remove the lock and replace it. The Locksmith will ensure that there will be minimal damage to the lock and in most cases zero damage to the door or frame, meaning there is no cover up job to take care of afterwards.
6.
Provided you have a basic latch lock you may want to try slipping your lock. It's not easy, but if you happen across either a wire hanger, or handy bit of plastic, you can bypass or slip your lock on your own door. Check our previous blog post for a more in depth look at how to slip your lock.
7.
Search for a local trusted Locksmith near youoperating 24/7. Using a search engine to find local Locksmiths you can view their reviews and make sure they provide a quality service before even booking them. If you get locked out without your phone, it's easy to ask a passerby to do a quick search, check the best reviews and make a quick call. This will take minutes to do and the Locksmith will most likely gain access to your property with no damage to you property and in most cases to your locks within the hour.
8.
In cases of lost keys, where you aren't sure where your keys are, or you know where they are and they aren't in safe hands, it's best to call a Locksmith to provide a lock change service. This can either be done to gain access, in this case you will be charged emergency service charges. Better case scenario, if you manage to gain access to your property you can book a Locksmith for a time that's convenient for you and this way won't get charged emergency service charge.
In any extreme scenarios it's best to contact a local Locksmith , they can advise on the best solutions to the problem and in some cases help over the phone. We provide free advice so if you have any other questions feel free to contact us.
Call us now on 02031510531 - 24/7 Locksmith services in Wandsworth serving South West London and more.
Regardless of the situation, it happens to everyone. Whether it's due to a failed lock, lost keys , or simply shutting the door behind you in a rush. Don't panic, there's always a solution.
This is one of the top questions people ask before calling a locksmith. Rekeying what it means Rekeying resets the lock’s internal mechanism, so only new keys work. It’s cheaper and fast. Good for: Lost keys (but lock itself is fine) Moving house (if the existing locks are in good condition) Replacing when it’s better Changing the whole lock is best when: Locks are old or damaged You want stronger security You’re upgrading to smarter or multi-point systems A locksmith will recommend the best option after inspecting your hardware.
People searching for a locksmith often worry about cost before they call. So let’s break it down clearly. Typical locksmith pricing Costs depend on: Whether it’s an emergency call-out The time of day Type of service (e.g., unlock, change lock, install new security lock) Parts required Example ballpark figures Emergency opening (no lock change): £60–£150 Lock change (cylinder replacement): £80–£200+ UPVC multi-point lock repair: £100–£250+ High-security lock fitting: £150–£350+ These are typical ranges a local locksmith will confirm before work starts. Tips to avoid surprises Ask for a firm quote before work Confirm whether VAT is included Check if emergency call-outs cost extra Request parts costs upfront SMS Locksmith gives transparent quotes up front , so you’re never left guessing.
