What to Do When You Can't Access Your Property
A short, calm sequence of checks makes the call to a locksmith much more productive.
Start by establishing what has actually happened, because the answer changes the work. Is the key missing entirely? Is it broken, and is part of it still in the cylinder? Is the key present but not turning? Is the door itself jammed while the lock is operating normally? These are four different problems.
Next, check the other entry points you are legitimately entitled to use. A second door, a rear entrance, or a key held by someone in the household or by a property manager can resolve the situation without any work at all.
Avoid forcing the door or continuing to turn a key that will not move. Applying force to a bound mechanism is the most common way a straightforward access problem becomes a hardware replacement, and a snapped key in a cylinder is more involved than a key that is merely stiff.
When you do get in touch, be ready with the property type, which door is affected, what the lock looks like, and what you can and cannot do with the key. Also be aware that you will be asked to confirm you are entitled to authorise work on that door — that is normal practice and it protects you as much as anyone.