What To Do When You’re Locked Out


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You get to your home and realise you don’t have the key, do you do? Well, in such cases, the next course of action is t the spare key you had already given a trusted friend or neighbour. But what do you do if there’s no spare key? Well, there are several things to do:

Ask For Help

If you live with roommates, is it possible for them to come home and let you in? Of course, it might be an inconvenience, especially if your roommate is out. Still, somewhere else is a better solution than being stranded outside your home, particularly when the weather isn’t friendly. If you rent your house, you can try and reach out to the landlord. More often than not, they have a spare key and may be close enough to pass by and let you in. If you reside in an apartment complex, simply go to the manager’s office and ask for assistance. However, you’ll need to provide proof of identity and that you actually reside in the complex.

Look for Open Windows

Chances are you never leave your windows open, but an unlocked window can be the best entry point if you did. Just remove the screen, lift the window and enter. However, you’ll be want to careful while doing this as you are likely to be off balance. Ideally, you’ll want to be aware of the furniture and other items that might be placed below the window, like TVs, tablets, etc.

Lockpicking Using a Credit Card

This is a form of lockpicking that only works on spring bolts, which are often found on conventional door knobs. Doors with deadbolts won’t budge under the force of a laminated card like a credit card.

Begin by picking a card that is easy to replace and won’t mind potentially destroying. Insert it between the door and the frame where the latch is found. Push and wiggle the card perpendicular to the door. While pushing, bend the card away from the doorknob so that the latch can slide back and away from the jam. Also, push your weight against the door as you bend the credit card.

If you can unlock the door, ensure you contact a locksmith, as you will have proven how easy it is to break into your house. You’ll want to consider upgrading the locks.

Remove the Door Knob

You should be able to gain entry by taking off the doorknob as long as the door’s deadbolt isn’t in use. Most doorknobs have the mounting screws or connection concealed, but if you take a closer look at the knob, you should be able to see a small pin-sized slot or hole, often located to the side or below the knob. Insert a thin metal piece like a straightened paper clip or bobby pin into the slot and apply pressure.

You will encounter resistance, but keep pushing the pin as far as possible into the hole with one hand while you use the other one to pull and twist the knob. Keep this up until you have removed the doorknob. The step is to remove the decorative plate, and you should have access to the lockset. Using the pin or a screwdriver, pull back on the lock mechanism, and you should be able to gain entry.

Call a Professional Locksmith

When all the methods mentioned above fail or even work, it is advisable that you contact and locksmith who specialises in emergencies. Now you might be desperate to gain entry into your home, but you should avoid hiring the first locksmith you come across. You will want to do your homework first.

One of the best ways to locate an ideal locksmith in your area is by asking for recommendations from people you know and trust. This could be a relative, friend, co-worker or a neighbour who has used the services of a locksmith in the past. Ask how long it took for them to fix their issues, the techniques they used and how much it cost. If their experience was not ideal, at least you will know who to avoid as you hunt for a locksmith in your region.

Another excellent way to find a locksmith quick is by doing a fast search on Google. Almost every locksmith business has an online presence, either through a website or on social media. Take a look at the services they offer, their rates and what other people have to say about them. The last thing you want is to hire an unscrupulous locksmith, especially regarding the security of your residence.

An excellent locksmith should be able to give you a genuine quote on-site, will have years of experience and will be able to unlock your door without causing damage. They will also be able to fix your door and recommend more secure locks and security systems that you might find useful.

So, the next time you are locked out, do not fret; there are plenty of solutions to ensure you gain entry.

Ref: THSI-2929 |ZD.25901

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