How much does a house lockout service cost?
A house lockout usually costs $75 - $200+. Simple daytime unlocks are usually the least expensive; nights, weekends, long travel, high-security locks, broken keys, or damaged hardware can push the price higher.
The goal is non-destructive entry. If a locksmith immediately wants to drill a working lock, pause and ask why picking, bypassing, or another entry method will not work.
What changes a lockout price
Standard daytime lockout
$75 - $150How to tellA common knob or deadbolt, no broken key, normal business hours
The fixPick or bypass the lock, then confirm the key works
After-hours or emergency call
$150 - $300+How to tellNight, weekend, holiday, or same-hour response
The fixEmergency dispatch plus normal unlock labor
Broken key or jammed cylinder
$100 - $250+How to tellKey snapped, lock spins, or cylinder will not turn
The fixExtract key, lubricate or repair cylinder, then unlock or rekey
High-security or damaged lock
$150 - $400+How to tellRestricted keyway, smart lock failure, or hardware already damaged
The fixSpecialty entry, repair, rekeying, or replacement
Before calling for a lockout
- Check for an unlocked back, side, garage, or interior-connected door without forcing anything.
- Call a household member, landlord, property manager, or trusted neighbor who may have a spare.
- Do not climb through unsafe windows or force a door if injury or frame damage is likely.
- Ask the locksmith for the service call and likely unlock range before dispatch.
Unlock the hiring checklist
Use this before you call a locksmith, so you know what to ask and what to avoid.
Call a pro when…
- No safe spare-key option is available
- A child, dependent adult, pet, stove, water, or security issue makes access urgent
- A key broke off in the lock
- The lock or door is damaged and may need repair after entry
Unlock only or rekey too?
If you simply left keys inside, an unlock may be enough. If keys are lost, stolen, or unaccounted for, rekey the exterior locks after entry so the old key no longer works. Replace the lock only if the hardware is damaged, unreliable, or not worth keeping.
Need a cleaner scope before you call around?
Use the locksmith checklist to compare the same work, questions, cleanup, and warranty before choosing a local company.
Related questions
Will a locksmith damage my lock?
A skilled locksmith can often open common residential locks without damage. Drilling may be necessary for some high-security, broken, or failed locks, but it should not be the first explanation for every lockout.
Why is an after-hours lockout more expensive?
The price includes emergency availability, travel, and the opportunity cost of dispatching outside normal hours.
Should I rekey after a lockout?
Rekey if a key is lost, stolen, copied by someone you do not trust, or left somewhere uncertain. If the key is locked inside and accounted for, rekeying may not be needed.
What proof does a locksmith need?
Expect to show ID plus proof you live there or have authorization. That protects homeowners from unauthorized access.