Getting locked out with the key on the other side is something we’ve all done, that doesn’t make it any less annoying.
If you’ve done just that, here’s the next steps to take.
Look for other entry points
Before you panic, have a check around your property for other entry points. This is usually the back door, patio doors or large windows that have been left unlocked.
Try the letter box
If your front door has a letter box (or a cat flap), try and reach through or slide a wire to try and pull the key from the lock.
Be careful not to damage your lock or get your hand stuck in the door.
Call a locksmith
When there’s no other route in, or no safe way of getting the keys out without damaging the lock, it’s best to call a locksmith.
For a standard lock-out, a qualified locksmith will be able to gain entry to your home in minutes, without causing any harm to your lock or key.
However the process could take longer if:
- You do not have a letter box
- You have a high-security lock, for example, an anti-snap lock
- There is no other way of access, such as bypass through the door or other entry points
What not to do
Being locked out is frustrating, but using excessive force to enter your home can damage your lock, door and key creating a big expense for you to cover in the future.
Avoid doing the following when locked out with your key in the other side of the door:
Force a second key
Do not force a second or spare key into the lock to try and force the other one out. This method will likely be unsuccessful, ruining the lock’s pins and damaging both keys.
Pick thhe door
Trying to force in the door causes permanent damage to its mechanisms. You’ll likely need to replace the whole door, which is a much more disruptive and expensive job.
Break a window
Outside of emergency scenarios, never smash a window to regain entry into your home. Breaking and entering through a glass window can cause severe injuries and is a big repair job.
Having a broken window on your property also increases the risk of intruders breaking in, compromising your home and household’s safety.
When should you ask for help
Call for help right away. Emergency locksmiths will quickly get you in your home, and your locks back to functioning flawlessly.
If your key is stuck in the door and you’re locked out, calling a professional in lock repair will prevent any further damage occurring.
Don’t repeat your mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes, and when there’s lots on your mind it’s easy to forget the keys in the back of the door as you’re leaving. Here’s some precautions you can take to prevent you repeating these mistakes too often.
Fitting a thumbturn lock
A thumbturn lock operates using a key on the exterior and an interior knob that twists to lock from the inside.
Thumbturn locks are more accessible for those with limited mobility. And because they don’t have a key lock on the inside, you can’t leave the key on the other side of the door.
Checklist
Forcing yourself to do a checklist before you leave the house means you’ll remember to take your keys out of the door, stopping you from being locked out.
If you find yourself rushing around and regularly forget to carry out a quick checklist, post one near the door so you’re reminded of it before you leave.
Another entry point
Keep an extra key for another entry point, like a back or patio door, in your bag or wallet.
Make sure to keep it somewhere outside of the home. Sounds obvious, but putting the key in a bag you never take with you won’t help when you’re stuck outside. A good place to keep it is in your car, purse or wallet.
Final thoughts
Getting locked out happens to all of us, and leaving the key in the back of the door is even more annoying. But it’s important to act calmly and call for help when necessary to avoid causing damage to your property.
And if this is a common occurrence, take precautions where possible to save you time and money in the future.
