Last reviewed 30 October 2026. General guidance, not legal advice.
First steps
- If someone is at risk, call 999. A child or vulnerable person locked inside, a pan on the hob, or a fire risk is an emergency.
- Try other ways in safely. Another door or a window you can reach from the ground. Don't climb.
- Think of spare keys. A neighbour, family, your landlord or letting agent.
- Look at your home insurance. Some policies cover lockouts or lost keys, sometimes with a helpline.
- Agree the price before the locksmith sets off. The call-out, the labour and any new lock, and whether it differs at night. Ask whether they will try to open it without damage first.
- Have proof that you live there. A good locksmith will ask for ID or post with your address once you are in.
New locks
If your keys were lost or stolen with your address, change the locks. Some home insurance policies ask for British Standard BS 3621 locks on outside doors: read yours.
Choosing a locksmith
There is no legal register for locksmiths. The Master Locksmiths Association runs a voluntary scheme and lists its members. Ask for a written price or receipt, and for the name and address of the business.