Locked out of your apartment? What to do first

Apartment lockouts have one extra layer compared with houses: the building isn't only yours. Your landlord or manager may hold keys, and your lease probably says something about locks.

Step 1: stay calm and check the obvious

Try every door you have legitimate access to, such as a balcony door on the ground floor or a back entrance. Don't climb to upper balconies; a fall is far worse than a locksmith bill.

Step 2: call the manager or landlord

Many Monrovia complexes keep a master or spare key. Some charge a fee for after-hours lockouts, but it's often less than a locksmith. If there's no answer, leave a message so they know.

Step 3: check your lease before changing anything

Most leases let a locksmith open the door but don't allow tenants to change or rekey locks without permission, because the landlord needs access in an emergency. Opening the door is fine; replacing the lock is a separate conversation.

Step 4: call a locksmith

When you call, mention that it's an apartment, which floor, and whether there's a gate code or buzzer. Have ID ready, or a lease or bill on your phone if your wallet is inside.

Avoiding the next one

• Leave a spare with a trusted neighbor or friend nearby.
• Use a keyring that clips to your bag.
• If the door locks automatically when it closes, ask your manager about changing the latch.
• A keypad deadbolt removes the key problem entirely; ask your landlord.

See lockout mistakes to avoid and the residential locksmith page.