Why it's safer to call a pro for a business lockout

A business lockout costs money every minute: staff waiting, customers turned away, deliveries missed. It's tempting to force the door. That's usually the most expensive option.

Why not force it?

Commercial doors are built heavier than house doors, often with steel frames, panic hardware and alarm contacts. Forcing one can damage the frame, set off the alarm and leave the building unsecured overnight. Glass storefronts are worse.

What a professional does

They arrive, check you're authorized to access the premises, assess the lock and choose the least damaging method. Most commercial lockouts are opened without replacing anything. If a key broke in the lock, it's extracted and a new key cut.

Before you call

• Confirm nobody else has a key: a manager, owner or landlord.
• Know whether there's an alarm and who has the code.
• Have proof of authorization: a business card, lease or ID matching the business.

Preventing business lockouts

• Keep a spare key with a second manager who lives nearby.
• Use a master key system so supervisors can open staff doors.
• Consider keypad locks on staff entrances; codes can't be locked inside.
• Rekey promptly when staff leave with keys.
• Have sticky locks repaired before they fail.

Monrovia businesses

Old Town shops, offices along Huntington Drive and light industrial units south of the 210 all have different hardware. Mention the door type when you call. See the commercial locksmith page and keyless entry for businesses.