How around-the-clock locksmiths handle after-hours home and car lockouts

After-hours lockouts follow a familiar pattern. Here's how a professional locksmith works through one, step by step.

What is an after-hours lockout?

Any home, vehicle or business lockout outside normal working hours: late evenings, overnight, weekends and holidays.

Assessing the situation

• What type of lock is it?
• Are the keys lost, or locked inside?
• Is there visible damage?
• Is anyone, or any pet, trapped inside?

Non-destructive entry first

Picking, bypass tools or specialist vehicle tools are tried before anything that damages the lock.

Rekeying or replacing afterwards

If keys are missing or the lock was damaged, rekeying or replacement on the same visit means you are secure that night.

How to prepare

• Save a local locksmith's number
• Leave a spare key with someone you trust
• Consider a keypad lock as a backup

Need a hand?

Call 408-310-4398 any day of the week.

Written by the Los Gatos Locksmith Store team, a mobile locksmith serving Los Gatos, CA. See our home, car and business services or our 95032 service area.