Locked Out of Your House? 5 Steps to Take Before Calling a Locksmith
Locked Out of Your House? 5 Steps to Take Before Calling a Locksmith
Locked Out? Here’s the Quick Answer
If you are locked out of your home in Tampa, first check all possible entry points, verify you have a spare key, contact anyone who may have one, and ensure you are safe while waiting. If none of these work, call a licensed locksmith for quick, non-destructive entry.
Understanding House Lockouts
A house lockout happens when you are unable to enter your home due to lost, stolen, or forgotten keys, malfunctioning locks, or damaged doors. In Tampa Bay, it’s a common problem for homeowners and renters alike — whether you’ve stepped outside to grab the mail, returned from work, or arrived home from vacation.
Lockouts can be stressful, especially if they occur late at night, in extreme weather, or when you are in a hurry. At Tampa Bay Lock & Key, we handle lockout calls daily across Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding areas. We aim to restore your access quickly while protecting your door, locks, and overall security.
Step 1: Check All Doors and Windows
Before calling for professional help, take a moment to check your entire home’s perimeter.
- Look for unlocked back doors, side entrances, or garage doors.
- Inspect windows — some may be unlocked or have latches that can be opened from outside.
- If you have a sliding glass door, check if the lock is engaged. Sometimes, debris in the track can prevent it from closing fully.
Safety note: Be cautious when using alternative entry points. For example, climbing through a window could result in injury or damage to your property.
Step 2: See If You Have a Spare Key
Many people keep a spare key with a trusted neighbor, family member, or friend. If you’ve recently moved, think about who you may have given a key to in the past — a contractor, pet sitter, or cleaner.
- If you have a lockbox for real estate purposes, see if it’s still accessible.
- Some homeowners hide a spare key in their yard, but avoid overly obvious spots like under doormats or flowerpots.
If you do not currently have a spare key, we recommend making one after your lockout to prevent future emergencies.
Step 3: Contact Someone Who Has Access
If you rent your home, your landlord or property manager may have a master key or be able to send maintenance personnel to assist.
- In apartment complexes, the management office or on-site security might have authorized access.
- In single-family homes, family members or roommates could be your quickest way inside.
Step 4: Stay Safe While You Wait
If you are locked out during unsafe conditions — such as late at night, during a storm, or in a high-traffic area — your safety should be your top priority.
- Wait in a well-lit public location or with a neighbor.
- Avoid standing alone in dark, isolated areas.
- If you suspect your keys were stolen, report the theft to local police before re-entering your home.
Step 5: Call a Licensed Locksmith
If all other options fail, calling a professional locksmith is your safest and most effective solution.
- A licensed locksmith can open most locks without damaging them.
- If your keys are lost or stolen, they can rekey your locks immediately to prevent unauthorized access.
What Not to Do During a Lockout
In the stress of being locked out, some homeowners take risky steps:
- Do not try to force the lock open with improvised tools — you may damage the lock or door frame.
- Avoid breaking windows — it can lead to injury, costly repairs, and security vulnerabilities.
- Do not hire unverified “locksmiths” from online ads without checking their licensing and business location.
Local Examples of House Lockouts
- Ybor City: A homeowner stepped outside during a storm and the wind blew the door shut. We arrived in under 20 minutes and opened the door without damage.
- Seminole Heights: A resident lost their keys during a morning jog. We rekeyed all exterior locks that same afternoon.
- St. Pete Beach: A vacation rental guest locked themselves out while grilling on the patio. We gained entry in minutes and ensured the lock was functioning correctly.
- Brandon: A parent accidentally locked themselves out while their child was napping inside. We prioritized the emergency and arrived in under 15 minutes.
FAQ – House Lockouts in Tampa
Q: How much does it cost to unlock a house in Tampa?
A: Standard house lockouts typically cost between $75 and $125 during regular hours. After-hours rates may be higher.
Q: Will a locksmith damage my lock?
A: In most cases, no. We use specialized tools designed to unlock doors without damage.
Q: Can you rekey my house after unlocking it?
A: Yes. We can rekey locks during the same visit for added security.
Q: What should I do if my keys were stolen?
A: Contact local law enforcement to file a report, then rekey or replace your locks immediately.
Why Choose Tampa Bay Lock & Key for House Lockout Services
- Over 65 years serving the Tampa Bay community
- Licensed, insured, and trusted by thousands of local residents
- Mobile service covering Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and nearby areas
- Expertise in both standard and high-security locks
- Upfront pricing with no surprise charges
Contact Us
If you are locked out of your home in Tampa Bay, call Tampa Bay Lock & Key for immediate help:
Tampa: (813) 238-8000
St. Petersburg: (727) 259-9000
We provide fast, professional, and damage-free lockout solutions so you can get back inside safely and securely.
