Locksmiths aren’t just for when you’ve locked yourself out of the house. While that’s the classic scenario, they can help with so much more, from upgrading security to fixing broken locks before they turn into a serious problem. Knowing when to call a locksmith can save you time, money, and stress. Here are the key situations where a locksmith should be your first call.
1. Locked Out of Your Home, Car, or Business
It happens to everyone at some point—you close the door behind you and instantly realise the keys are inside. Maybe you’ve lost your car keys, or the lock on your business isn’t working when you need to open for the day. Whatever the case, locksmiths can quickly get you back in without damaging your locks or doors.
Even if you manage to get inside another way, forcing a door or breaking a window will likely cost you more in repairs than calling a locksmith Perth would have. Professionals have the tools and expertise to unlock doors efficiently and safely.
2. Moving into a New Home or Office
If you’ve just moved into a new place, one of the first things you should do is change the locks. Even if the previous owners or tenants were trustworthy, you never know who else has a copy of the keys—previous cleaners, tradespeople, or even neighbours.
A locksmith can either rekey the existing locks (which changes the internal pins so old keys won’t work) or install entirely new locks for added peace of mind. The same applies if you’re moving into a new office—keeping your business secure should be a top priority.
3. Your Key Breaks Inside the Lock
Keys wear down over time, and a weak key can snap when you least expect it. If a key breaks off inside a lock, trying to remove it yourself can make things worse by pushing it further in or damaging the lock mechanism.
A locksmith has the right tools to extract the broken key without harming the lock. In many cases, they can cut you a new key on the spot so you’re not left stranded.
4. A Lock Is Sticking or Difficult to Turn
A lock that’s hard to turn or feels “sticky” is a warning sign that something isn’t right. It could be dirt and debris inside the mechanism, internal components wearing down, or even issues caused by weather changes.
Instead of waiting until the lock completely fails—possibly leaving you locked out—call a locksmith to assess the issue. They can clean, repair, or replace the lock before it becomes a bigger problem.
5. You’ve Had a Break-In or Attempted Break-In
If someone has broken into your home or business, replacing the locks should be done immediately. Even if they didn’t get in, a damaged lock or door is an easy target for another attempt.
Locksmiths can assess the damage, install stronger locks, and even recommend additional security measures like deadbolts or keyless entry systems to help prevent future incidents.
6. You’ve Lost Your Keys
Losing a key isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a security risk. If you’re unsure where you lost them or if they might have been stolen, it’s best to assume someone else could have access to your home, car, or business.
A locksmith can rekey your locks or replace them entirely, ensuring that your lost keys won’t work anymore. This is particularly important for high-value properties or businesses where unauthorised access could be costly.
7. You Need a Spare Key (or Several)
Waiting until you lose your last key before making a spare is asking for trouble. Having duplicates made in advance can save you from lockouts and make life easier for family members, employees, or anyone else who needs access.
A locksmith can cut high-quality spare keys that work perfectly, unlike the hit-or-miss copies from hardware stores that may not always fit smoothly.
8. Upgrading to Keyless or High-Security Locks
Traditional locks work well, but if you’re looking for an upgrade, locksmiths can help install modern security options. Keyless entry systems, smart locks, and high-security locks offer convenience and extra protection.
Whether you’re tired of carrying keys, want to allow remote access for guests or employees, or need stronger security for a business, a locksmith can recommend the best system for your needs.
9. Your Car Key or Fob Stops Working
Car keys, especially electronic key fobs, can stop working unexpectedly. Whether the fob battery is dead, the key won’t turn in the ignition, or you need a replacement key programmed, an automotive locksmith can help.
Many locksmiths offer mobile services, so they can come to your location and sort out the issue, whether that means cutting a new key, reprogramming a fob, or fixing a stuck ignition.
10. Your Safe Won’t Open
If you have a safe that won’t open—whether it’s due to a lost combination, a faulty lock, or mechanical failure—a locksmith can help regain access without damaging the safe.
Trying to force it open yourself could permanently ruin the lock, making it even harder to fix. Instead, a professional locksmith can unlock it, reset the combination, or repair any faults while keeping everything inside secure.
Security Should Never Be an Afterthought
Locks and security aren’t something you should wait to deal with until there’s an emergency. Whether you need a lock repaired, keys replaced, or an upgrade to better security, a locksmith can help ensure you’re never left locked out—or worse, vulnerable to intruders.
Taking action before a problem arises can save you stress and money in the long run, so if you’re dealing with any of the situations above, it’s time to call a locksmith.
