Being locked out is stressful, but it is usually simple to fix. What matters most is what kind of lockout you have — because a door that has just closed behind you is a very different job from a lost set of keys.
This page explains the common situations, what the locksmith will do, what we need from you and what to do while you wait. If you'd rather just talk to someone, call now — the call goes to a working locksmith, not a call centre.
Which lockout do you have?
Door shut behind you, keys inside: very common with night latches (the Yale-style lock that locks itself when the door closes) and with UPVC doors that were pulled shut but not locked with the key. These can often be opened without touching the lock's internals.
Keys lost or stolen: we get you in, then talk about whether to change the lock. If the keys could be linked to your address — a bag stolen with ID inside, for example — changing the cylinder is the safe choice.
Key snapped or stuck in the lock: the broken piece is extracted first. If the lock itself is worn or damaged, it is replaced. See our broken key extraction page for more detail.
Lock turned but door won't open: on UPVC doors this usually means a failed gearbox inside the multipoint lock, not a lockout as such. That's a repair job — see UPVC door lock repair.
Does the lock have to be drilled?
No — drilling is a last resort. A professional locksmith tries non-destructive methods first: slipping or bypassing a latch, picking the lock, or manipulating the mechanism. Most standard household locks can be opened this way.
Some locks are deliberately hard to open — high-security anti-snap cylinders, for example — and a damaged or very worn lock may not respond to picking. In those cases the locksmith will explain why, agree any change in price with you, and fit a replacement on the same visit so your home is secure when they leave.
UPVC, composite or timber door?
UPVC and composite doors almost always have a euro cylinder (the lock you put the key into) driving a multipoint lock. If the handle was lifted and the key turned, the door is fully locked and the locksmith works on the cylinder.
Timber front doors often have a night latch near the top and a mortice deadlock lower down. If only the latch was engaged, entry is usually quick. If the mortice was locked, it takes longer but can normally be picked.
If you know your door type, mention it on the call — it helps us give you an accurate price.
What we need from you
The address, the type of door and whether it was key-locked or just pulled shut. A photo of the lock via WhatsApp helps.
Proof you live there. Before or straight after opening the door we'll ask for something like a driving licence, bank card, utility bill or tenancy agreement. This protects you — we won't open any door for anyone who asks.
Pricing — agreed before we travel
We ask a few questions on the call, then give you a fixed price for the job before anyone sets off. If something unexpected comes up on site — for example a lock that has to be drilled and replaced — we explain it and agree the new price with you before doing the work.