It's opening time. Your staff is standing outside. The key won't turn, or nobody has one.
Take a breath. Most business lockouts are fixed fast and without damage. Here is what to do, and what not to do.
Step 1: Check every way in
Before you call anyone, walk around the building.
- Is there a back door, side door or loading door?
- Does another manager or the owner have a key?
- Does your landlord or property manager keep a spare?
- If you have a keypad or card reader, does someone else's code or card work?
Sometimes the fix is a phone call to a co-worker.
Step 2: Figure out what kind of lockout it is
The cause changes the fix. Most lockouts are one of these:
- No key: the key is lost, at home, or with someone who left.
- Key won't turn: the lock is worn, jammed or was changed.
- Key turns, door won't open: the latch or panic bar is stuck, or the door has sagged.
- Broken key: half the key is stuck in the lock.
- Keypad or card reader is down: dead battery, power or a setting.
Tell the locksmith which one it is. It helps them bring the right parts.
Step 3: Call a locksmith, and ask the price first
Ask for the price before any work starts. A real business should give it to you. Also ask if they work on commercial doors, like storefronts and exit doors. Not every locksmith does.
What NOT to do
- Don't pry the door. A screwdriver or crowbar can bend an aluminum storefront door or frame. That repair can cost far more than the lockout.
- Don't force a broken key. Pulling with pliers can push the piece deeper.
- Don't spray random oil in the lock. Thick oil can gum it up. Leave that to the locksmith.
- Don't break glass. Glass on a storefront is costly and slow to replace. And now your store can't be locked.
- Don't let a stranger in to "help." Make sure whoever opens your door is a licensed locksmith. In Texas, you can ask for their license number.
What we do when we get there
We look at the lock and door first. Most of the time we can open it without damage. If we can't, we tell you why and what it costs before we do anything else.
Once you're in, we find out what caused it. A worn lock, a sagging door or a stuck latch will just lock you out again.
Stop it from happening again
- Lost key? Rekey the lock so the old key stops working.
- Too many people with keys? Think about restricted keys or a key log.
- Lock or door wearing out? Fix it now, before it fails at opening time.
- Tired of keys? Access control lets you open the door with a card or code.
Our hours
We work Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6 PM. Outside those hours, call or text and we'll tell you if we can help.
Next step
Locked out now, or want to stop the next one? See our business lockout service, contact us, or call (682) 324-6688. You get the price before we start.
Quick answers
Will a locksmith damage my door to get in?
Most business lockouts are opened without damage. If a lock has to be drilled or replaced, a good locksmith tells you why and gives you the price first.
Should I rekey after a business lockout?
If the key was lost or stolen, yes. Rekeying makes the old key stop working, so whoever finds it can't get in.
What are your hours for business lockouts?
We work Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6 PM. Outside those hours, call or text and we'll tell you if we can help.