What should I do if I'm locked out of my house?
Short answer
Check for another unlocked entry point first, then contact a trusted family member or neighbor with a spare key, your landlord or property manager if you rent, or a licensed locksmith who can perform non-destructive entry.
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Steps in order
- Check all other doors and accessible windows for one that's unlocked.
- Contact anyone with a spare key — family, a neighbor, or a landlord.
- If you rent, your property manager or landlord may be able to let you in.
- Call a licensed, reputable locksmith who can verify you're the resident and use non-destructive entry.
- Have ID and proof of residence (mail, lease, ID with the address) ready to show the locksmith.
Urgent vs. can wait
A daytime lockout with no immediate weather or safety risk can usually wait for a standard-rate locksmith appointment within an hour or two. A lockout involving small children or pets inside, extreme heat, or nightfall in an unfamiliar or unsafe area is a stronger case for immediate after-hours dispatch.
What a licensed locksmith actually does
- Verifies your identity and residence before opening anything
- Attempts non-destructive entry methods first, matched to your specific lock type
- Explains the lock's condition afterward and flags if it's worn or was already compromised
What to avoid
- Forcing a door or window, which risks injury and property damage
- Hiring based only on the lowest advertised price — some low quotes are bait for high on-site upcharges
- Giving payment or personal information before confirming licensing and identity
Preventing a repeat lockout
A hidden spare key with a trusted neighbor, a lock with keyless entry, or a lockbox rated for outdoor use are common ways to avoid a repeat lockout, though a locksmith can advise on the best option for your specific door hardware.
Related questions
Will a locksmith need to drill my lock?
Not usually. Most residential lockouts are resolved with non-destructive methods; drilling is typically a last resort for damaged or high-security locks.
What ID do I need to prove I live there?
A driver's license or ID matching the address, a piece of mail, or a lease agreement are commonly accepted by locksmiths before they'll open a door.
Is it cheaper to call a locksmith at night than during the day?
No — after-hours locksmith service is typically priced higher than daytime service, similar to other emergency home services.
Should I call the police if I'm locked out?
Generally not necessary for a routine lockout, but if you have no ID or way to prove residency and no locksmith will proceed without it, some non-emergency police lines can help confirm you live there.
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