Take a breath. Being locked out feels urgent, but it is rarely as urgent as it feels, and the decisions made in the first ten minutes are the ones people regret. Work through this in order and you will almost always end up with the cheapest, calmest outcome.

On this page

First, check the easy things

  • Is another door open — back door, side gate, patio door, garage? It sounds obvious; it is still the most common fix.
  • Has a window been left open that you could safely reach?
  • Is there a spare key with a neighbour, a family member or a landlord?
  • If you rent, is there a letting agent with an out-of-hours number, and a key?
  • Have you actually checked every pocket, bag and coat — twice?

Things worth trying before you call anyone

Only try what is genuinely safe. Never climb, never force a window, and never attempt DIY work you are not sure of — a broken door costs far more than a call-out.

  • A second key holder. If anyone else has a key, this is the whole solution.
  • A nearby family member or friend. If someone can let you in or bring a spare, start there.
  • Your landlord or letting agent. If you rent, they may hold a key. Many tenancy agreements also set out who to call out of hours.
  • Your home insurer. Some policies include lock and key cover, or emergency assistance. Worth checking before you pay a stranger.

When to call for help

If none of the above works, it is time to call a locksmith. Do this deliberately:

  1. Choose a firm you can identify. A local business with a real name, an address and a landline is safer than an anonymous ad.
  2. Ask the call-out fee and a likely total before they set off. Then ask them to text it so you have it in writing.
  3. Ask whether they will try non-destructive entry first. A good locksmith will. This is the difference between opening your door and replacing your lock.
  4. Give them the lock type. Say whether it is a standard night-latch, a deadlock, a cylinder lock or a uPVC door, and describe any brand name on the faceplate.

If the person you speak to is vague, pushy or will not commit to a figure, ring someone else. Our guide to avoiding rogue locksmiths sets out the warning signs in more detail.

What to have ready

  • Your address, and clear directions or a what3words location if the building is hard to find.
  • The type of door and lock, and anything written on the lock itself.
  • Proof that you live there — a bank letter, utility bill or the address on your photo ID. A good tradesperson may ask, and being ready speeds everything up.
  • A phone that is charged, and the quote they sent you, kept open.
  • Someone with you if you can arrange it, especially late at night.

What to expect when someone arrives

A professional will confirm the price again before starting, explain what they are going to try, and attempt non-destructive entry first. If they cannot open the door without damage, they should tell you what that means for the cost before they drill or cut anything. If they do replace a lock, ask for the new keys, any packaging for the part, and an invoice with the firm's details on it.

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