What To Do The Moment You Realise You’re Locked Out
Locked out of your home? Stay calm and follow these simple steps. They can save you time, money and a damaged door.
Published: 3 October 2026
Take a breath and check the easy things first
The first minute matters less than the next decision. Panic leads to forced doors and broken windows, which cost far more than a lockout ever should.
Before you call anyone, quickly check the simple options.
- Try every door, including the balcony or service door.
- Ask family, flatmates or a neighbour if anyone has a spare key.
- Contact your building management or security desk, as some keep a spare for residents.
- Check your pockets and bag once more.
Do not force the door
Kicking a door, prying the frame or breaking a window may get you in, but it usually damages the lock, the frame or the glass. Repairing that often costs more than calling a locksmith.
A trained locksmith can open most home doors without damage, because the right tools open the lock the way a key would.
Call a locksmith and give clear details
When you call, tell us your exact location, the type of door and lock if you know it, and whether the door is simply shut or locked with the key turned. This helps the technician arrive prepared.
At ELD we answer 24/7 and send the nearest technician, with an average arrival time of about 30 minutes. You can read more about how we handle this on our home lockout page.
Think about what happened to your keys
If you simply left your keys inside, you are done once the door is open. But if your keys were lost or stolen, anyone who finds them may know where you live.
In that case, it is wise to change the lock straight away, so the old keys stop working.
Make sure it does not happen again
Once you are back inside, make a spare key and keep it somewhere safe, such as with a trusted friend or in your building’s key arrangement. A smart lock is another option, because it opens with a code or fingerprint and there is no key to forget.