5 common lockout mistakes and how to avoid them

A lockout is annoying; the mistakes people make in the next ten minutes can make it expensive. Here are the common ones and what to do instead.

1. Forcing a way in

Prying a window, kicking a door or shimming a lock with a credit card can break glass, frames or the lock itself. The repair usually costs more than the lockout call. Check for an unlocked door or window you can reach safely, then stop.

2. Calling the first ad you see

Search ads aren't always local businesses. Some are call centers that send whoever is free from far away at a price set on arrival. Call a number you've checked, and ask for the service fee and starting price up front.

3. Not checking who else has a key

Before calling anyone, think: a roommate, partner, landlord, building manager or neighbor may have a spare. A five-minute wait for a spare is cheaper than any call-out. Apartment residents should call the manager first.

4. Forgetting about ID

The technician will ask for photo ID and proof you live there. If your wallet is inside, say so on the phone; it can be checked once the door is open. A lease email, a utility bill on your phone or a delivery app showing your address all help.

5. Ignoring lost keys afterwards

If your keys were lost rather than locked inside, someone else may have them. Rekeying stops old keys working and costs less than new locks. See why rekeying matters.

How to respond to a lockout in Monrovia

For a home, call 626-537-2261, describe the lock and give your address. For a car, give the make, model and exact location. For an office, say whether there's an alarm. The emergency page walks through what happens next.