A key snaps in the lock
Old or bent keys can break inside a cylinder. Resist the urge to dig with a pin or super glue; both can push the fragment deeper or jam the pins. A locksmith uses thin extractors to pull it out, then cuts a new key from the lock or the broken piece. Extraction starts at $19.00 for home and business locks.
A smart lock stops working
Dead batteries cause most smart lock failures. Many models have a backup key cylinder or emergency power terminals for a 9-volt battery. If those don't work, a locksmith can open the door through the backup cylinder, check the motor and wiring, and reset or replace the lock.
Locked out of a safe or file cabinet
Forgotten combinations and lost cabinet keys are common at home and in offices. File cabinet locks can usually be opened and replaced without damaging the cabinet. Safes are harder: the price list notes that the $85.00 safe unlock service involves damage and the safe won't be usable afterwards, so ask about alternatives. See our file cabinet guide.
After a break-in
Call the police first and don't touch anything they may need to see. Once they're done, a locksmith can fix or replace damaged locks, reinforce strike plates and rekey the remaining locks in case keys were taken. It's also a good time to upgrade to Grade 1 deadbolts on exterior doors.
Don't make it worse
Breaking a window or prying a door can cost far more than the locksmith visit and can injure you. If you're unsure, call and describe the situation; the dispatcher can tell you whether it's a job for a locksmith.
Frequently asked questions
Can a broken key be copied?
Yes. A locksmith can often decode the cuts from the broken pieces or the lock itself and cut a new key.
