Being locked out of your house is stressful but very common — Australian locksmiths attend thousands of residential lockouts every week. Before calling a locksmith, check all doors and windows and contact anyone who might have a spare key. If you cannot get in, a licensed locksmith can usually have you back inside within 30–45 minutes using non-destructive entry techniques.
What to do right now
- 1
Check every door and window
Walk around the entire perimeter of your home. Try the back door, side doors, laundry door, garage, and all ground-floor windows. You may find one that is unlocked. Check pet doors — some are large enough to reach through and unlock the door from inside.
- 2
Contact anyone who might have a spare key
Call your partner, housemates, family members, or neighbours. If you rent, contact your property manager or real estate agent — they are required to hold a set of keys. Check if you have a key in a lockbox or key safe.
- 3
Do not attempt to force entry
Kicking in a door or breaking a window is dangerous, expensive, and may void your home insurance. A locksmith will cost far less than replacing a door frame or window. Forced entry can also trigger alarm systems and draw police attention.
- 4
Call an emergency locksmith
If you cannot find another way in, call a 24/7 emergency locksmith through Urgent Locksmith. Provide your suburb and lock type if known. Ask for an upfront quote including callout fee and any after-hours charges. A skilled locksmith will pick or bypass your lock without causing any damage.
- 5
Consider upgrading your security
Once back inside, ask the locksmith about installing a key safe, upgrading to a smart lock with keypad or phone access, or getting spare keys cut. These steps help prevent future lockouts.
When to call an emergency locksmith
- ⚠️You have checked every door and window and cannot find any way in
- ⚠️Your property manager is unreachable and you have no spare key
- ⚠️You are locked out at night or in bad weather and need to get inside urgently
- ⚠️A child or pet is locked inside the house
- ⚠️You need to access medication or essential items inside
- ⚠️The lock appears damaged or faulty and will not open even with the key
How much does it cost?
A standard residential lockout during business hours costs $80–$180 across most Australian cities. After-hours callouts (evenings, weekends, public holidays) range from $120 to $280. Non-destructive entry is included in the callout fee in most cases. If the lock needs to be drilled or replaced, expect an additional $100–$300 for the new lock and installation. Always confirm the total cost before the locksmith begins work.