What to Do When You Are Locked Out of Your House

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when you realise you are locked out of your house is to stay calm. Panicking will not help you get back inside any faster. Take a deep breath and walk around the property to check every door and window. Many people lock the front door but forget to check the back door, side entrance, or even a window that may have been left slightly open.

If you are a tenant, check if your landlord or letting agent has a spare key. Some rental agreements include a 24-hour emergency contact who can provide access. Similarly, if you have given a spare key to a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member, now is the time to contact them.

Check for Alternative Entry Points

Before calling an emergency locksmith, look for any alternative ways to enter your property safely. Check if you have a spare key hidden somewhere secure, such as in a key safe or with a neighbour. If you live in a flat, contact the building concierge or management office, as they may have a master key or access to a spare.

If you have a garage attached to the house, check if you can access the garage and then enter through an internal connecting door. However, never attempt to force a window or door open, as this can cause expensive damage, void your insurance, and potentially lead to injury.

When to Call an Emergency Locksmith

If you have exhausted all other options and still cannot get into your home, it is time to call an emergency locksmith. A professional locksmith can gain entry to your property quickly and, in most cases, without causing any damage to your doors, locks, or windows. They are trained in non-destructive entry techniques and carry the right tools to open standard residential locks.

When you call an emergency locksmith, be prepared to explain what type of lock you have, whether it is a deadlock, mortice lock, UPVC multi-point lock, or a smart lock. This information helps the locksmith bring the right equipment and gives you a more accurate time estimate. If you are locked out late at night or in bad weather, an emergency locksmith should still be able to assist, as most reputable local locksmiths operate 24 hours a day.

How to Avoid Getting Locked Out in the Future

Prevention is always better than a cure. Here are practical steps you can take to avoid being locked out again:

Key Prevention Tips

• Install a key safe outside your property in a discreet location. Choose a police-approved model and share the code only with trusted people.
• Give a spare key to a trusted neighbour or relative who lives nearby.
• Upgrade to a smart lock with keypad or smartphone access so you never need a physical key.
• Make it a habit to check you have your keys before leaving the house.
• Keep a spare key in your bag, car glove box, or workplace if safe to do so.

Why You Should Choose a Local Locksmith

When you are locked out, choosing a local independent locksmith rather than a national call centre is almost always the better option. A local locksmith based in your area can usually reach you faster, often within 30 to 60 minutes. They also know the local area, the types of properties common in the region, and the locks typically installed in homes around Basingstoke, Tadley, Andover, and the surrounding Hampshire villages.

Local locksmiths also tend to charge fairer, more transparent prices. National companies often subcontract work to local traders while adding a significant markup. With a local locksmith, you are dealing directly with the person who will arrive at your door. They are also more likely to be DBS checked and have a genuine reputation in the community that they are invested in protecting.

Emergency Locksmith Costs in Hampshire

The cost of an emergency locksmith visit varies depending on the time of day, your location, and the complexity of the job. During standard daytime hours, you can expect to pay a reasonable call-out fee plus labour. Late-night, weekend, and bank holiday callouts may carry a higher rate, but a reputable locksmith will always explain the costs upfront before starting any work.

Be wary of locksmiths who quote extremely low prices over the phone and then inflate the bill once they arrive. Always ask for a clear quote, confirm whether the price includes VAT, and check whether the locksmith has insurance and is DBS checked. Remember that the cheapest option is not always the best, especially when your home security is at stake.