5 Common Mistakes That Lead to Home Lockouts and How to Avoid Them

We’ve all experienced that sinking feeling – closing the front door only to realize the keys are inside. A home lockout is more than just an inconvenience; it can be stressful, costly, and even risky depending on the time of day or weather conditions. Thankfully, many lockouts are entirely preventable. Understanding the common mistakes that lead to these situations can help you take the right precautions. If you ever find yourself locked out, don’t panic – Locksmith United offers fast, reliable home lockout services to get you back inside quickly and safely.

Below, we explore five common missteps that often result in home lockouts, and share practical tips on how to avoid them.

1. Forgetting Your Keys Indoors

This is by far the most common reason for a home lockout. Whether you’re rushing to work, distracted by a phone call, or simply operating on autopilot, it’s easy to walk out and close the door without your keys.

How to Avoid It:

• Create a key-check habit. Make a conscious effort to check for your keys before leaving the house.
• Use a visual reminder. Place a note near your door or a key hook in a noticeable spot.
• Smart home tech. Consider investing in a smart lock or keypad entry system to eliminate the need for physical keys.

2. Losing Your Keys

Keys can fall out of pockets, get left behind at a restaurant, or disappear into the abyss of a crowded bag. Losing your keys doesn’t just lead to a lockout; it also poses a security risk.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a keychain with a tracker. Bluetooth-enabled devices like Tile or Apple AirTag can help you locate lost keys.
• Keep spares strategically. Give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or friend. Alternatively, install a secure outdoor lockbox with a code only you and your household know.

3. Faulty Locks or Keys

Over time, locks and keys can wear down. If your key suddenly snaps in the lock or your door becomes difficult to open or shut, you could end up locked out without warning.

How to Avoid It:

• Perform regular maintenance. Lubricate your locks occasionally and check for signs of wear and tear.
• Replace old locks. If your key turns with difficulty or the lock sticks, it’s time for an upgrade.
• Don’t force it. Forcing a key can cause it to break off in the lock. At the first sign of trouble, call a professional locksmith.

4. Locking Doors Automatically

Some locks, like deadbolts or knob locks, engage automatically when the door shuts. While convenient, they’re also a common culprit in accidental lockouts.

How to Avoid It:

• Be mindful of self-locking doors. Take extra care when exiting through doors with automatic locking features.
• Install a delay feature. Some smart locks offer delayed locking to give you a buffer before the door locks.
• Keep a backup key handy. Store a spare in a wallet, car, or trusted neighbor’s home just in case.

5. Relying on Children or Roommates

It’s not uncommon to rely on others for access, especially in shared living arrangements. But if your roommate forgets their phone or your child accidentally locks the door behind them, you may find yourself stuck outside.

How to Avoid It:

• Educate family members. Teach children how locks work and remind all household members to carry keys.
• Have a backup plan. Establish an emergency protocol, such as keeping a key with a nearby family member or trusted friend.
• Install a smart lock. These allow each household member to have a personal code or even unlock the door remotely through a smartphone app.

Stay Prepared – Avoid the Stress of a Lockout

Being locked out of your home is never a pleasant experience, but it doesn’t have to be a frequent one. By understanding these common causes and taking proactive steps, you can greatly reduce the chances of finding yourself on the wrong side of the door.

However, if a lockout does happen, it’s crucial to have a dependable locksmith you can count on. At Locksmith United, we offer 24/7 home lockout services to help you regain access without damaging your doors or locks. Our experienced technicians are just a phone call away, ready to get you back inside – quickly, safely, and affordably.

Don’t wait for the next lockout to make a plan. Prepare now, and let Locksmith United be your go-to partner in home security.