Locked Out of Your House in Brooklyn? Here’s What to Do Right Now

It happens to everyone: you step out to grab the mail, the door swings shut, and your keys are on the kitchen counter. Before you panic, work through these steps.

1. Check every other way in, safely

Try the back door, side door, garage entry and any windows you know are unlocked. Do not climb onto a roof or balance on a ladder in a hurry. A fall is much worse than a locksmith call.

2. Call someone with a spare

A family member, roommate, landlord or building super may have a key. If a neighbor has one, even better.

3. Do not force the lock

Kicking the door, using a credit card on a deadbolt or prying with a screwdriver can damage the door, the frame and the lock. A damaged door frame can cost far more to repair than the lockout itself.

4. Call a local locksmith

A professional can usually open a residential door without damage. When you call, be ready to share your address, the type of door and lock if you know it, and proof that you live there. We ask for ID before opening any door.

If you are in Mill Basin, Marine Park or nearby, our house lockout service runs 24/7, with a typical arrival time of about 1 hour.

5. Consider a rekey if the keys are lost

If your keys are lost rather than just locked inside, whoever finds them could walk in. Ask about rekeying your locks while the technician is there. It is faster and cheaper than buying new locks.

Prevent the next lockout

Hide nothing under the mat, since burglars check there first. Instead, give a spare to a trusted neighbor, or install a keypad lock so you never rely on a key alone.