Common causes of apartment lockouts
- Lost or misplaced keys
- Keys left inside a door that locks behind you
- Broken or worn locks
- A key stuck or snapped inside the lock
Check with your building first
If your building has an on-site manager, they may hold a spare key. Many leases also restrict who can change or drill a lock, so check before authorizing anything beyond opening the door.
Why DIY methods are risky
Forcing the door, using a credit card on the latch or prying the frame can damage the lock and the door jamb. That turns a simple lockout into a repair you may have to pay your landlord for.
What the locksmith does
The locksmith will check your ID and that you live in the unit, then open the door using techniques that suit the lock, whether a standard cylinder or a smart lock. If the lock is worn, they can inspect it and quote a repair. Apartment lockouts fall under the lockout rate on the price list.
Tips to prevent future lockouts
- Leave a spare with a trusted friend nearby.
- Use a keypad lock if your lease allows it.
- Replace a lock that sticks before it fails.
Need help now? Call 650-425-6062 or see our emergency locksmith service.
