Walk your home once a season and you will catch most lock problems before they become lockouts or break-ins.
Step-by-step guide
- Try every exterior door Lock and unlock each one. Anything that sticks or needs a shove goes on the list.
- Look for a deadbolt on each Every exterior door should have one that throws a full inch.
- Check the frame Look for loose strike plates and short screws on strikes and hinges.
- Count your keys If you cannot account for every copy, or you have just moved in, plan a rekey.
- Check secondary entries Sliding doors, basement doors and the door from the garage are the ones people forget.
When to call a locksmith
If the steps above do not solve it, or you would rather not do it yourself, see Lock Rekeying or browse more how-to guides.
Rather have it done for you? Mobile Locksmith DC is open 24/7 with a 15–25 minute response anywhere in Washington, DC. Call (240) 202-2249.