Locked out with no key: we come, open the locked door and secure it

Before you call, check these simple options. They need no tools and won't damage your door.

• Look for a spare key: someone you live with, a relative, a neighbour you trust.
• Think about other ways in: a garage or back door that's already open. Don't take any risks at height.
• Contact your landlord, agency, building manager (syndic) or caretaker: they sometimes hold a key.

If a child, a vulnerable person or a pet is shut inside, or something is left on the hob, call 112 first.

On a door that has slammed shut, only the latch, the angled tongue, holds it. Nobody turned the key, and a locksmith can often open it without breaking anything.

When you lock the door, the key throws the deadbolt, a solid bar that sits in the strike plate on the frame. On a multipoint lock, several bolts go out at once. They can't be pushed back from outside: the only way to unlock is through the lock itself.

The tricks you see online, a card or a flat screwdriver slipped between door and frame, work on the latch of a door that has slammed shut. Here they don't, and you risk damaging the lock, the door and the frame. Better to call a locksmith: phone us or send a WhatsApp.

That's why opening a locked door costs more. On the phone we explain what's likely for your door and the price of each scenario. A photo of the lock on WhatsApp helps a lot.

We never crowbar a door open: that damages the frame and sometimes the wall. The technician looks at the lock first, then picks the method that does the least damage.

Where the lock allows it, they open it without destroying it, so you keep your keys and your cylinder. On a high-security lock that's often not possible, so the cylinder is drilled and replaced on the spot. The door and frame stay intact.

Either way, they tell you what they'll do and what it costs before starting.

A stuck door isn't always about lost keys. We come out for these too.

The key won't turn: jammed lock

Worn mechanism, a door that has shifted, a bolt rubbing on the strike plate: the key goes in but won't turn. Don't force it or it may snap in the lock. If it already has, see key broken in the lock.

The handle spins without opening

The handle no longer pulls the latch back: a part has broken inside the lock. The door stays shut even though it isn't locked. We open it, then repair or replace the lock.

If your keys were stolen, or lost with something showing your address, someone could get in. Opening the door isn't enough: have the cylinder replaced.

We can open the door and fit a new cylinder in the same visit. The old keys become useless.

Report a theft to the Grand Ducal Police (113) too. Your insurer will often ask for the report.

Renting? Tell your landlord or agency before changing the lock. They may have requirements (same model, building master-key system).

Many flats in Luxembourg have a reinforced front door or a three-point lock. They're built to resist, so opening takes longer and the cylinder often needs replacing afterwards.

We never attack a security door at random. The technician looks at the lock, explains the method and confirms the price before starting.

1. Call or WhatsApp — Your address, the type of door, slammed shut or locked, and what happened to the keys. A photo of the lock if possible. We answer in English and French.
2. Price first — Opening only, or opening plus a new lock: the price including VAT for each option.
3. Proof of residence — We'll ask for proof that you live there: ID, lease or a letter. If it's inside, you show it right after we open.
4. Open and secure — We open the door, then fit a new part if needed. You test the new keys with the technician.
5. Detailed invoice — Parts and labour itemised, for your insurer or landlord.

The price depends on the lock and whether it needs replacing. We give it including 17% VAT before travelling, with any night or weekend surcharge included. If you want a sturdier lock fitted, the quote is free.

We also give you an estimated arrival time when you call.