Being locked out of your own Atlanta, Georgia property is a frustrating situation, to say the least. Yet most of us have at one time or another misplaced our keys or made another error that could have led to a lockout from our home, car, or business property. 

In most cases, luck is on our side and we eventually find our keys. However, sometimes we’re not so lucky and we discover we’re facing an emergency lockout.

The next logical step may seem like calling a locksmith, but many people hesitate at the concept, worried about the cost, hidden fees, and scams. Most of these fears are unjustified, based on fear and internet hype. While it’s true that you should take the time to vet the locksmith you choose, as there are many companies out their competition for your business, calling a locksmith is still the best way to handle an emergency lockout.

Resorting to breaking a window or busting the knob off your front door will only lead to costly repairs in the future. A locksmith service call is almost always far less expensive and invasive. Still not convinced? Read on to see why you should always call a locksmith when dealing with a lockout from your property.

Auto Lockouts

Vehicle lockouts are one of the most highly requested calls for assistance that locksmiths receive on a regular basis. It’s all too easy to misplace your keys or electronic key fob, especially with how busy and hectic our lives have become. No matter how much you pride yourself on always checking that your keys are in your pocket before you lock your vehicle or shut your trunk, it only takes one mistake to leave you facing an unexpected lockout. We always recommend keeping a spare car key in a safe place that you can access if such a situation arises, but that’s not always the reality. Maybe you forgot to have a spare made or maybe you’re somewhere that you can’t get to the spare. 

In any case, call a certified automotive locksmith if you’re facing a vehicle lockout. A locksmith will have the tools and training to get you back inside your vehicle with little to no damage to your locks or doors. Locksmiths utilize specialized equipment, such as slim jams and inflatable wedges, to gain access to different body styles of vehicles. No matter what make or model your vehicle is, from a well-worn Chevy truck to a brand-new Audi sedan, a qualified automotive locksmith will be able to quickly determine the best method for entry.

Home Lockouts

Being locked out of your own home can halt your regular routine. Whether it happens after a long day at work because your worn key snaps off in the front door lock, or in the morning when you accidentally lock them inside, a home lockout always requires a fast resolution. No one wants their neighbors to see them prowling around their own home and get the wrong idea. Again, prevention is key, and it’s always best to have a spare key available somewhere that no one else can find it. However, if one isn’t available, make sure you check all the doors and windows on the ground level to see if any are accessible. If not, it’s time to phone a locksmith company.

Business Lockouts

Business lockouts are unique due to their ability to directly impact your income. They are often extremely urgent. Commercial lockouts are most common with buildings using manual locks and keys, but are also a risk for businesses that have upgraded to electronic security. Whether a would-be thief damaged your lock in a break-in attempt, a new employee forgot your pin-code and locked the system, or your smart lock is malfunctioning, technology brings a new host of potential lockout causes.

The best course of advice when you discover that you’re locked out of your commercial property is to contact a trustworthy commercial locksmith. The longer you’re locked out of your business, the greater the potential for lost revenue, irate customers, and backlogged work. Since businesses in different industries keep a variety of hours that differ from the traditional 9-5, you may need to locate a 24-hour emergency locksmith depending on when your commercial lockout occurs.

Why You Should Call a Locksmith

Most locksmith companies are available for 24-hour lockout assistance, although prices and fees may vary. Always get a free consultation and quote over the phone before determining whether to hire a particular locksmith. If their price sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Locksmiths are skilled trade providers, after all, and their training and equipment are worth a certain base amount. Choose a mobile locksmith that can come directly to your location, even if you’re stranded on the side of the road or in a parking lot. It’s best to hire a local locksmith, who will not only be able to reach you must faster than one located far away, but also will provide you with more personalized service and take more time to resolve your lockout with the least amount of damage possible.

A lockout doesn’t have to ruin your day. Turn to a trustworthy local locksmith to resolve the situation in no time without making a dent in your bank account. Soon your lockout will be nothing more than a funny story to share at dinner or with your coworkers.