Posted on May 29th, 2024.

Being locked out of your house is an inconvenient and often stressful situation that can happen to anyone. It's important to stay calm and assess the situation carefully to determine the best course of action, so knowing what to do in such emergencies is crucial, whether you've misplaced your keys, locked the door behind you accidentally, or encountered a lock problem. 

This blog post aims to guide you on what to do when locked out of your house, ensuring you remain safe and regain entry as quickly as possible and helping you understand the common reasons for lockouts. 

Read on!

What is a Lockout?

A lockout occurs when you are unable to gain access to your home due to a locked door and no means of unlocking it. Lockouts are a common problem that can happen to anyone, often at the most inconvenient times. These are some of the common reasons for lockouts:

• Lost Keys: Misplacing or losing your keys is one of the most common reasons for being locked out.
• Locked Keys Inside: Accidentally leaving your keys inside the house and locking the door behind you.
• Broken Keys: A key breaking off inside the lock, rendering it unusable.
• Faulty Locks: Malfunctioning locks that fail to operate correctly, leaving you unable to unlock the door.
• Forgotten or Misplaced Spare Keys: Not having a spare key accessible when you need it.
• Slamming the Door: A sudden gust of wind or an absentminded moment resulting in the door being closed with the keys still inside.
• Key Stuck in Door: Difficulty with the key getting stuck in the lock and unable to turn or remove it.

Now that we know what a lockout is, let‘s explore what to do in this situation.

What to Do in a Lockout Situation

1. Assess the Situation

When you find yourself locked out of your house, the first step is to assess the situation calmly. Determine the cause of the lockout. Is it due to lost keys, a key stuck in the door, or perhaps the door locked itself behind you? Understanding the root cause will help you decide the best course of action.

Next, check if you have a spare key available. Many people keep a spare key with a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member. If you have one, now is the time to use it. If not, consider if there is an alternative entry method available, such as an unlocked window or a back door that you might be able to access safely. Additionally, take into account the time of day and potential risks, especially if you are locked out at night or in adverse weather conditions.

2. Contact a Locksmith

If you cannot gain entry using a spare key or alternative method, your next step should be to contact a professional locksmith. Calling a locksmith offers the benefit of professional expertise and the right tools to unlock your door without causing damage. When choosing a locksmith, ensure you find a reliable and reputable one in your area. Look for recommendations, read online reviews, and check their credentials. Verifying the locksmith's credentials and insurance is crucial to avoid scams and ensure that you receive quality service.

3. Use Alternative Entry Methods

While waiting for a locksmith, consider if there are any safe alternative entry methods you can use. If you have a spare key hidden somewhere accessible, retrieve it. Alternatively, if you have previously arranged a backup plan, now is the time to use it. It's essential to have a backup plan in place before a lockout happens. This could include giving a spare key to a neighbour or installing a keyless entry system that allows you to enter your house without a physical key.

4. Prioritise Safety 

During a lockout, your safety is paramount. If you are stranded outside, especially in bad weather or at night, take steps to stay safe. Seek shelter in a neighbour’s house, a nearby café, or your car if you have access to it. Avoid standing in isolated or poorly lit areas. If you are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable, do not hesitate to call for help, whether it's a friend, family member, or emergency services.

Ways to Prevent Being Locked Out in the Future

Always Double Check for Your Keys

The easiest way to avoid a lockout is to make sure you have your keys before leaving the house. Get in the habit of doing a quick pat down of your pockets or bag to confirm you have your keys. You can also keep your keys in a designated spot near the door, like a hook or tray, to serve as a visual reminder.

Keep Spare Keys with Trusted Contacts

Have a spare key with a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member. This way, you can easily get back inside if you ever forget your keys. Avoid hiding a spare key outside, as it can be easily found by intruders.

Install a Keyless Entry System

Consider upgrading to a keyless entry lock that uses a code, fingerprint, or smartphone app instead of a traditional key. This eliminates the risk of being locked out due to lost or forgotten keys. Just be sure to keep the battery charged.

Separate House and Car Keys

Keep your house and car keys on separate key rings. That way, if you accidentally lock your keys in the car, you'll still have your house key. And vice versa. Just be very careful where you hide the spare key.

Use a Keyless Doorknob

Replace your standard doorknob with a keyless model. This prevents you from accidentally locking the doorknob from the inside and getting locked out. You'll still need a key for the deadbolt, but it's much harder to lock yourself out this way.

By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the chances of being locked out of your home in the future. Taking a few simple precautions now can save you a lot of hassle and expense down the road.

Wrapping Up

In summary, being locked out of your house can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. Assess the situation, check for spare keys or alternative entry methods, and contact a professional locksmith if needed. Always prioritise your safety during a lockout and consider implementing preventative measures to avoid future lockouts.

At AA London Locksmiths, we are committed t o helping you regain access to your home quickly and safely. Lost your keys? Need to cut or duplicate extra keys? Looking for top-class, experienced locksmiths? Look no further! 

Contact Us Now!

Reach us at 079 5624 8323 or [email protected] if you ever find yourself locked out or need assistance with any lock-related issues. We are available 24/7 to provide the outstanding locksmith service you need.