Locked Out of House
You cannot get into your home because the door has locked behind you, you have lost your keys, or the lock has jammed.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Keys left inside and the door closed on a latch lock
- 2Lock mechanism seized or jammed
- 3Key lost or stolen
How Urgent Is This?
This needs prompt attention. Delaying could cause further damage, safety risks, or significantly higher repair costs.
What Needs to Be Done
A locksmith will gain entry using non-destructive techniques where possible. If the lock needs to be drilled, they will fit a replacement lock of equal or better quality.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £77 – £207 | Materials: £37 – £210
Enter your postcode for a local price estimate
Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionHow to Prevent This
Keep a spare key with a trusted neighbour or in a key safe. Consider a smart lock that can be opened without a physical key.
Related Problems
Other Locksmith Problems
The key has broken off inside the lock barrel, leaving part of the key stuck and the lock unusable.
The key is increasingly difficult to turn in the lock, requiring more force each time.
A window lock or handle mechanism has failed, leaving the window unable to lock securely or open properly.
The front door lock does not engage fully, the latch does not catch, or the deadbolt will not throw into the frame.