Locked out of your house?

What to know before you call

A home lockout feels urgent, and the first instinct is to force a window or shoulder the door. Don't. A trained locksmith can open most standard residential locks without damage, which almost always costs less than replacing a broken frame, a cracked window or a door that's been kicked in.

Call, tell us where you are and what kind of lock you're dealing with, and we'll connect you with a locksmith who covers your area.

What to have ready when the locksmith arrives

A reputable locksmith will ask you to prove you live there before opening the door — that protects you as much as anyone. Have a photo ID ready, and if your ID shows a different address, a lease, utility bill or piece of mail (often sitting inside, which the locksmith can check with you once the door is open). If you rent, your landlord or property manager may also be able to let you in.

Non-destructive entry comes first

Most standard knob locks and deadbolts can be opened by picking or bypass tools. Drilling the lock is a last resort — for high-security locks or a lock that has failed internally — and a good locksmith explains why before doing it. If the first thing you hear is "we'll have to drill it," ask why, and ask what the replacement will cost before you agree.

Lost the key, not just locked out?

If your keys are lost or stolen rather than sitting inside, getting back in is only half the job. Anyone who finds a key with an identifying tag or your address can use it. Ask the locksmith to rekey the lock while they're there — the old key stops working, and it's usually far cheaper than new hardware.

Children, pets or someone at risk inside?

If a child or a vulnerable person is locked inside, or there's any risk of harm, call 911 first. Emergency services can respond faster than any locksmith.