Locked Out of Your House? Here’s Exactly What to Do

Locked out of your house? Stay calm — you have clear options. If you don’t have a spare key or don’t want to break a window, a licensed locksmith can open your home within minutes without damaging the door or lock. Call (888) 351-2810 or book online for 24/7 dispatch.

Step 1: Check All Entry Points Before Calling Anyone

Take 60 seconds to check these before spending money on a locksmith:

• Back door and sliding glass doors (often left unlocked)
• Garage door (manual or automatic entry)
• First-floor windows
• Neighbor or family member who has your spare key
• Your landlord or property manager (for renters)

Step 2: Know Your Options — and Their Tradeoffs

Option A: Call a locksmith (recommended)

A licensed locksmith can open your door using non-destructive techniques — lock picking, bump keys, or bypass tools — without damaging the lock or door frame. Cost: $75–$200 depending on lock type and time of day. Average arrival time through GotLocked: 15–25 minutes.

Option B: Call your landlord or property manager

If you rent, your landlord or building super often has a master key. This is free if they’re available, but response times vary and some charge a fee for after-hours calls.

Option C: Credit card shimming (only works on spring-latch locks)

The classic “credit card” trick only works on simple spring-latch locks (the kind that lock automatically when you pull the door shut). It does NOT work on deadbolts. Slide a flexible card between the door and frame at the latch, angle it toward the latch while pushing the door. This only works from the outside if the latch is angled toward you.

Option D: Break a window (last resort)

Breaking a small window to reach the inside handle is always an option, but window replacement typically costs $150–$400 — more than a locksmith. Only do this if you’re in genuine danger (health emergency, extreme weather) and can’t wait for a locksmith.

How a Locksmith Opens Your Home

A licensed locksmith will ask for your ID and verify it matches the address before opening anything. This is for your protection. Once verified, they’ll use one of these techniques depending on your lock type:

• Lock picking — Works on standard pin-tumbler deadbolts. Non-destructive. Most common technique.
• Bypass tools — Used for knob locks and lever handles with simple mechanisms.
• Bump key — A specialized key blank struck to momentarily displace the pins.
• Drilling — Destructive technique used only when picking won’t work (high-security locks). The locksmith will then replace or rekey the lock.

How Much Does a Home Lockout Cost?

Situation	Typical Cost
Standard lockout (business hours)	$75–$150
After-hours / weekend lockout	$100–$200
High-security lock (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock)	$150–$300
Drilling + lock replacement	$150–$350

After You’re Inside: Consider a Rekey

If you were locked out because you lost your keys (not just forgot them inside), consider a rekey immediately after regaining entry. Lost keys can be used by anyone who finds them. Rekeying costs $25–$75 per lock and changes which key opens the lock without replacing the hardware.

How to Avoid Getting Locked Out Again

• Hide a spare key — Give one to a trusted neighbor or use a combination lockbox.
• Install a smart lock — Keypad or app-controlled. No key to lose.
• Key hook discipline — One spot, always. Never put your keys in a random location.
• Get a spare key cut — Today, while the thought is fresh. Costs under $5 for a basic key.

Frequently Asked Questions — Home Lockout

Can a locksmith open any door?

Virtually all residential doors, yes. Standard deadbolts, knob locks, lever locks, and smart locks can all be opened by a licensed locksmith. Very high-security locks (Grade 1 deadbolts, Medeco) may take longer and cost more.

Will the locksmith damage my lock?

Non-destructive techniques are used first. In most cases the lock is opened without any damage. If drilling is required (rare, usually high-security locks), the locksmith will let you know upfront and can replace or rekey the lock on the spot.

How do I prove I live there?

A government-issued photo ID with a matching address is standard. For renters, a lease agreement works. If your ID doesn’t show the address (e.g., you just moved), utility bills, mail, or a call to your landlord can supplement it.

Is it cheaper to break a window than call a locksmith?

No — in most cases a locksmith costs less than window replacement. A single-pane window replacement runs $150–$400. A standard lockout service is $75–$150. Choose the locksmith unless no one can respond in time.

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Locked out right now? Get a locksmith dispatched to your address in minutes, or call (888) 351-2810 — 24/7, licensed, background-checked.