What counts as an after-hours lockout?
- Residential: you cannot get into your house or apartment
- Automotive: you cannot get into your car or trunk
- Commercial: you cannot get into your office or shop
The questions you will be asked
- What type of lock is involved?
- Is the key lost, or locked inside?
- Is there any damage to the lock or door?
- Is anyone, such as a child or pet, inside and at risk?
If someone is in danger, call 911 first.
Non-destructive entry comes first
Locksmiths try to open a door or car without damaging it. Drilling is a last resort for locks that cannot be opened any other way, and you should be told and given the price first.
Rekeying or replacing afterwards
If your keys were lost or stolen, consider rekeying once you are back inside so the missing keys no longer work. See residential services for details.
How to prepare for the unexpected
- Save a locksmith's number in your phone
- Keep a spare key somewhere secure and reachable
- Consider a keypad or smart lock as a backup way in
- Keep ID somewhere other than your keyring
Need help now?
Phones are answered Monday through Sunday, all day. Call 818-531-9695 or read about emergency locksmith service.
Winnetka Locksmith is a referral and dispatch service. Your request is passed to an independent locksmith contractor, who performs, invoices and warrants the work. See the Terms and Conditions for details.
