Locked Out of Your House? What to Do While You Wait

You've Called the Locksmith. Now What?

You're locked out. You've called the locksmith and they're on the way. The dispatcher said 20-30 minutes. What do you do in the meantime?

Here's a practical guide to staying safe, comfortable, and productive while you wait.

First: Make Sure You're Safe

Your immediate safety is the priority:

• If it's cold or dark — Wait in your car (if you have it) or a nearby shop, restaurant, or coffee shop. Don't stand outside in dangerous conditions.
• If you're in an unfamiliar area — Stay in a well-lit, populated spot. Don't wander.
• If you have kids or pets with you — Get them somewhere warm and comfortable first. A neighbor's house, a nearby store, or your car with the heat/AC on.
• If it's late at night — Stay in your car with the doors locked while you wait. If you don't have a car, find a well-lit spot near a business that's open.

While You Wait: Practical Checklist

Get Your ID Ready

The locksmith will ask for proof of residence before opening the door. While you wait, find:

• Driver's license (your current address should match the house)
• A utility bill on your phone (email or online account)
• Your lease or a photo of it
• A neighbor who can vouch for you

Having this ready saves time when the locksmith arrives.

Gather What You Need Inside

Think about what you'll need immediately once you're in:

• Phone charger — your phone may be low after the call and wait
• Spare key location — where do you keep one? With a neighbor? In a lockbox?
• Calendar — you may have missed appointments or need to reschedule

Plan for Next Time

Use the waiting time to prevent this from happening again:

• Hide a spare key — Not under the doormat. Use a lockbox ($20-$30) mounted somewhere inconspicuous, or leave one with a trusted neighbor.
• Consider a smart lock — Keypad entry means no keys to lose. You can also grant temporary codes to family members.
• Give a key to someone nearby — A trusted neighbor, family member who lives close by, or friend.
• Keep a key in your car — If you have a magnetic key holder or a hidden compartment in your vehicle.
• Make a habit — Pat your pockets before you close the door. "Phone, wallet, keys." Every time.

Use the Time Productively

If you're safe and comfortable, the wait doesn't have to be wasted time:

• Check emails or return messages
• Plan your day or week
• Order groceries for delivery (hey, you'll be home soon)
• Call a friend you've been meaning to catch up with
• Read an article or listen to a podcast

If You Haven't Called Yet

If you're reading this and haven't called a locksmith yet:

1. Check other entry points. Back door, garage, ground-floor window. Don't force anything.
2. Call someone with a spare key. Roommate, neighbor, landlord, family member.
3. Call us. Our 24/7 dispatch connects you with a licensed locksmith near you.

What NOT to Do While You Wait

• Don't try to pick the lock yourself — you'll make it worse
• Don't try to climb through a window — it's dangerous, especially if you're on an upper floor
• Don't try to kick the door — you'll damage the frame and the lock
• Don't call multiple locksmiths — it wastes time and creates confusion when two arrive
• Don't panic — it's a common problem with a quick solution

How Long Will the Locksmith Take?

Once the locksmith arrives, most lockouts are resolved in 5-15 minutes. The picking itself takes under 5 minutes in most cases. The locksmith will:

1. Verify your ID
2. Assess the lock type
3. Quote a price
4. Pick or bypass the lock
5. Confirm your key works

FAQ

Need emergency lockout service right now? Call (855) 373-1159 and our 24/7 dispatch center will connect you with a licensed professional near you.