Locked out of your home in Stevenage, Hitchin and North Herts

Could anyone be in danger?

Before anything else, think about who or what is on the other side of the door. If a young child, an older relative or anyone unwell is inside and cannot let you in, or something dangerous has been left on, such as a pan on the hob or a running bath, call 999. The same goes for any sign that someone has broken in and may still be there.

Once you know nobody is in danger, a lockout is usually a problem of time and inconvenience rather than safety.

What should I try first?

• Check every door and window you can reach from the ground, including the back door and any patio or French doors.
• Think about who else holds a key: a partner, a family member, a neighbour or a friend.
• If you rent, contact your landlord or letting agent, who may keep a spare.
• If you live in a flat, the managing agent or caretaker may be able to help with communal doors, although they rarely hold keys to individual flats.

Avoid climbing in through an upstairs window or forcing a ground floor one. A fall or a smashed pane can turn a lockout into something far worse, and a broken window can cost more to put right than the lock.

How does a locksmith get you back in?

Most locksmiths begin with methods that leave the lock and door intact where they can. Picking or bypassing the lock, or opening a latch that has not been deadlocked, are common starting points.

That is not always possible. A cylinder lock with good resistance to attack, a deadlocked mortice or a multipoint mechanism on a uPVC or composite door may need the cylinder or lock to be drilled or removed. In that case a replacement has to be fitted before you can lock up again, so it helps to know which kind of lock you have.

What will they need from me?

A locksmith may ask you to show that you live at the address before or after opening the door. Photo ID, a bank statement, a utility bill or a tenancy agreement are typical examples. If everything is inside, explain that when you make your enquiry. They may be happy to check your documents once you are in.

How do I avoid surprises on cost?

Ask for the price before any work starts, and ask what would change it. Useful questions include:

• Is there a charge to attend, separate from the work?
• What happens to the price if the lock has to be drilled?
• What lock would you fit as a replacement, and what standard does it meet?
• Will I get a written receipt that shows what was done?

If a figure on the phone is very different from what you are asked to pay at the door, you are entitled to question it before agreeing to anything. Citizens Advice has guidance on problems with services if you need it later.

What if the key has snapped or will not turn?

A key broken in the lock, a key that turns without moving anything, or a handle that has stopped working all count as being locked out if the door will not open. Tell the locksmith exactly what you see. A snapped key can often be extracted, while a failed mechanism inside a uPVC door may need a new gearbox or lock case once the door is open.

Is a lockout covered by home insurance?

Some policies include help with lockouts or replacing locks, often as part of home emergency cover, and some do not. Check your policy documents or call your insurer before you assume either way.

What should my enquiry say?

• your postcode
• what kind of door it is: wooden, uPVC or composite
• the type of lock, if you know it, or a description of the keys
• whether the key is lost, locked inside, broken or simply not working
• whether the door was deadlocked or just pulled shut