It happens to the best of us—you step outside, the door closes behind you, and then it hits you: you’re locked out of your house. The realization can be both frustrating and stressful, especially if it happens late at night or in bad weather. If you’re wondering, “How to get into my house when I locked myself out?” this guide will walk you through several strategies to regain access quickly and safely.
1. Check for Unlocked Windows or Doors
Before you panic, the first step is to check all possible entry points. Walk around your house and see if any windows or doors are unlocked. Sometimes, we overlook a back door, a basement entrance, or a window that may have been left slightly open. If you find an unlocked window, take care when entering—remove any obstacles and ensure you don’t injure yourself while climbing in.
2. Call Someone With a Spare Key
If you have given a spare key to a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member, now is the time to call them. This is often the quickest and safest way to get back into your house when you’ve locked yourself out. It’s always a good idea to have a few people you trust with a spare key to prevent being completely locked out.
3. Use a Credit Card or Similar Tool
One of the classic methods people often think of when asking, “How to get into my house when I locked myself out?” is using a credit card. This method can work on spring bolt locks (the type found on standard doorknobs), but it won’t work on deadbolts. Here’s how to try it:
- Slide the card between the door frame and the latch.
- Wiggle the card and apply slight pressure against the latch.
- Push the door as you continue to wiggle the card until the latch retracts and the door opens.
Be cautious with this method as it may damage your card or the door, and it’s generally not effective on more secure locks.
4. Try Removing the Doorknob
If you’re handy with tools, you might consider removing the doorknob. Most doorknobs have exposed screws that you can unscrew using a standard screwdriver. If there are no visible screws, look for a small hole on the side of the doorknob. Insert a thin, rigid tool, like a paperclip, into the hole to release the knob. Once the knob is removed, you can usually manipulate the latch to open the door.
5. Use a Hanger for Inside Locks
If you have a lock that turns with a thumb latch on the inside, you might be able to use a wire hanger to unlock it. Straighten the hanger and create a small hook at the end. Slide the hanger through a gap in the window or door until you reach the latch, and then pull the latch towards you to unlock the door. This method requires patience and a bit of skill, but it can be effective in certain situations.
6. Use a Bump Key
A bump key is a specially designed key that can manipulate the pins in a standard lock to open it. Bump keys are controversial because they can be used for illegal purposes, but if you have one and know how to use it, it might be your solution to “How to get into my house when I locked myself out?” Remember that bump keys should only be used responsibly and legally.
7. Call a Professional Locksmith
When all else fails, or if you’re uncomfortable trying any DIY methods, the safest and most reliable option is to call a professional locksmith. A locksmith can quickly and efficiently help you regain access to your home without causing damage to your lock or door. This is often the best answer to the question, “How to get into my house when I locked myself out?” because it guarantees a safe and hassle-free solution.
8. Preventing Future Lockouts
After you’ve successfully gotten back into your house, take steps to prevent future lockouts:
- Install Smart Locks: Consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to unlock your door with a smartphone app, fingerprint, or keypad code.
- Hide a Spare Key: Hide a spare key in a secure and discrete location outside your home. Be creative, but avoid common hiding spots like under the doormat.
- Give a Spare Key to Someone You Trust: This could be a neighbor, a friend, or a family member who lives nearby.
- Keyless Entry Systems: Invest in keyless entry systems that use a keypad or biometric access, eliminating the need for a physical key.
Conclusion
Getting locked out of your house is never a pleasant experience, but knowing your options can make the situation less stressful. Whether you find an unlocked window, use a credit card, or call a locksmith, you now have multiple strategies to consider when asking, “How to get into my house when I locked myself out?”
If you’re frequently locking yourself out or if your locks are outdated, it might be time to consider upgrading your home’s security with smart locks or keyless entry systems. And remember, having the contact information for a reliable locksmith can be a lifesaver in an emergency.
For professional locksmith services in Dundee, including emergency lockout assistance, visit our website or call us directly. We’re here to help you get back into your home quickly and safely, 24/7.
