Locked Out of Your House in Raleigh? What to Do

Being locked out at night, in the rain, or with groceries in your hands makes it tempting to try something drastic. A calm few minutes usually gets you back inside for less money and with no damage to your door.

Try these first

• Walk around and check the entrances you normally use: a garage keypad, side door or sliding door.
• Call anyone who has a key: a roommate, family member, a neighbor you trust, or your landlord or property manager.
• If you have a smart lock or keypad, check the app or try your code.
• If you rent, call your property manager first. Many have an after-hours maintenance line.

What not to do

• Do not break a window or kick the door. A new frame or window costs much more than a lockout call, and a damaged frame can leave your home less secure.
• Do not climb to an upstairs window or balcony. Falls are a real risk.
• Do not force a credit card into a deadbolt. It rarely works on a deadbolt and can damage the door jamb.

What the locksmith will ask for

A technician needs to know the door is yours to open. Expect to show an ID with your name and something that ties you to the address, such as a lease, utility bill or mail. A reputable locksmith will ask for this before opening any home, and it protects you as well.

Make it the last time

• Add a keypad or smart lock so you never need a key to get in.
• Leave a spare with a neighbor you trust or in a lockbox out of sight.
• If keys were lost or stolen, rekey the locks so the missing key stops working.

Questions we hear

Will you damage my lock or door?

The goal is always to open the door without damage. Most locked doors can be opened by picking the lock or bypassing the latch. If the lock is already broken or worn out, we can repair, rekey or replace it on the spot.

I rent. Can you still help?

Yes, with ID and proof you live there, such as a lease or utility bill. It is best to let your landlord or property manager know, and some leases require you to call them first.

How long does it take?

Once the technician is at your door, it is often a matter of minutes. Travel time depends on where you are in Raleigh and the Triangle, and we will give you an estimate when you call.

My keys were lost, not locked inside. Is that different?

Yes. Anyone who finds a lost key could use it, so the safer fix is to have the locks rekeyed. See rekey or replace your locks.

Related

Lockout ServicesHouse Lock RekeyLock Change & InstallationSmart Lock InstallationRekey or Replace Your LocksWhen to Change Your Locks

We travel to Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Garner, Wake Forest, Knightdale, Morrisville, Holly Springs and the rest of the Triangle. Browse more locksmith guides.