What to Do When Locked Out of Your Apartment in New York City?

New York City, referred to as the City of Dreams, is considered the best place in the world. The city is brimming with people, events and so much more that it is a constant grind to catch up with everything. With all the hassle, nothing can match the feeling of relief that comes from making it home after a long exhausting day. And just when you arrive home, you reach into your pocket or purse only to find you do not have your keys. You are locked out of your apartment after a long day. Now, this can be frustrating and sometimes dangerous if you have kids or pets inside. 

Locksmith NYC is your savior here. We provide affordable and professional 24/7 service. You can always call a locksmith in NYC to prevent anything drastic. However, we have listed down FIVE options that you might want to try before hiring a locksmith. 

What to do When Locked Out

1. Find Another Way in

Search for other ways to get in. You have locked the door but you might have left the window or balcony door opened. This is possible if you live on floors a little above ground level. See if you can jump to the balcony door and get inside.

2. Reach Out to your Landlord

If you rent a place, try contacting your landlord. Landlords usually have a spare key in case of an emergency. Ask them to either lend you the keys or let you in the apartment.

3. Contact your Leasing Office

Your leasing office always possesses an extra key to your apartment. Contact them for assistance. You can call them or stop by their office. Keep in mind that the leasing office may charge lockout fees. Depending on your community policies, the fees can be anywhere between $25 and $100.

4. Call Someone You Live with 

Call your roommate, family member, or anyone you live with and see if they can help to let you in. This may seem inconvenient sometimes, but it can save you from paying lockout or locksmith fees. 

5. Contact a Locksmith

When everything fails, your final step is to call a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can unlock your apartments for you. Although locksmiths are trained to unlock the door without damage, it is always safe to consult with your landlord or property manager. This is because they can charge you in case of damage or a new lock without their permission.

How to Prevent Getting Locked Out Again?

It is better to have a plan for the next time you lost your keys. With that said, here are a few tips to avoid getting locked out again. 

  • Get a spare key and give it to someone you trust. Another option is to keep a spare key somewhere in your car. 
  • Consider smart locks. Smart locks offer keyless entry to your apartment and work through a wireless connection such as a mobile app, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. Make sure to consult your landlord or property manager about the lock upgrade.