With millions of students moving into new accommodation and a general upward trend in people buying or renting new homes after the restrictions of the last year, it goes without saying that more people than ever will be finding themselves locked out and keyless over the next few weeks. It is easy to panic when you are locked out, but as with any unexpected situation, it helps to take a deep breath, look at the options, and work calmly through plans A-C. Once they have been exhausted then, of course, you can panic!
Plan A – have a little look around for any open windows. Could the back door be unlocked? If you can’t access the rear but you know your neighbours, ask if you can hop over their wall.
Plan B – call friends, family, your landlord or anyone else who may have a key. If several people have keys, send them all a message to see where they are and how quickly you can get to them – or vice versa.
Plan C – if you can’t get into your home, nobody else has a key that they can get to you in time, and you desperately need to get in, it is time to call a locksmith. Check out local locksmiths and make a list of ones to call, starting with the one nearest your home.
Do NOT be tempted to break a window or lock. A locksmith will be able to help you to get into your home without causing damage to the lock or the door. It may feel like an unnecessary expense, but it will probably end up cheaper than repairing any damage and, if you are renting, you could risk losing your deposit.
Being locked out is something that is frustrating, but there are things that you can do to avoid it happening in the future.
Get a key safe – if you are not handy, get a handyman to install a lock safe for you. They are inexpensive and can be very useful if you are locked out, or someone needs to access your home. If you rent, check with your landlord first.
Find a safe space – don’t leave your key under the flowerpot by the front door, but if you have access to a slightly less obvious place, it can help to leave a spare key somewhere for emergencies.
Leave it with a neighbour – life would be much easier if you can pop to the neighbour’s and ask to use their spare key, instead of asking to climb over their wall!
At Trust A Trader, we know that the unexpected can happen at any time. Our directory of trusted electricians, locksmiths, plumbers and traders of every description is on hand to help you to find the help that you need, when you need it. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter and join our community of happy customers and trusted traders.