I have locked myself out
If the door merely slammed shut, it opens with a non-destructive technique in a few minutes and the lock is kept. If it was deadlocked with a key, it takes longer and sometimes means replacing the cylinder. And if the key was left in the other side, say so when you call: it changes both the price and the method.
Qué hacer ahora mismo
- Check whether the door is only latched or fully deadlocked
- Check whether you left the key in the other side
- Find your ID and proof of address before the locksmith arrives
- Staying in a holiday flat? Open the booking confirmation on your phone
- Do not try to get in through windows or balconies
Three situations, and they do not cost the same
Slammed shut. Only the latch is engaged — that sloping piece that goes in by itself when the door closes. This is the easiest and cheapest case.
Deadlocked. Someone locked it with a key from outside. The bolts are thrown and the job is considerably bigger.
Key left in the other side. The cylinder is occupied and cannot be worked through the keyway. This is the most awkward case and sometimes means replacing it.
What you will be asked for on arrival
Something showing you belong at that address. It is not distrust or red tape: opening someone else’s door without checking can amount to unlawful entry, and no serious locksmith skips that step.
If you live there, ID with that address works, as does a tenancy agreement, a recent utility bill in your name, or your padrón certificate. If you are staying in a holiday flat, the booking confirmation showing that address plus your passport does the job — you do not need to be the owner, you need to be able to show a connection to the address.
While you wait
Check whether a window or the courtyard was left accessible, but do not try to climb: there are serious falls every year over this, and an opening costs vastly less than a hospital visit.
If a neighbour you trust has a copy, try that before calling anyone. In a holiday flat, message the host — many keep a spare set nearby.
Would you rather someone looked at it?
Esto entra dentro de door opening.Call and I will tell you the cost before I set off.
Frequently asked questions
Will you break the lock?
In most cases there is no need. A non-destructive technique is always tried first, and if there is no alternative you are told before anything is touched.
What if it is a rented flat?
It works the same: a tenancy agreement in your name shows you live there.
I am on holiday and it is not my flat. Can you still help?
Yes. Bring up the booking on your phone — the one with that address and your name — and have your passport. That is enough. Being a guest is not a problem; not being able to show any link to the address is.
It is the middle of the night. Should I wait until morning?
If you have somewhere to sleep and the property is secure, waiting for normal hours is cheaper. An honest locksmith will tell you so on the phone.