When you are locked out of your office or place of business, a lot goes through your mind. You are not sure whether you left the keys at home or dropped them on the way to work. Maybe they have fallen into the wrong hands?
You have valuable documents, data, and precious items in the office. However, this is not the time to consider breaking the door, especially if you have sophisticated locking mechanisms.
So, what do you do in such a situation?
Unless another colleague is on their way, with their own keys, you need to figure out a way to get inside. The longer you leave it, the less productive your work day is going to be.
Who You Gonna Call to Gain Access?
The best solution to such a problem is requesting the services of a lockout locksmith. Depending on the time of day or night, you may also require a company that provides 24-hour services.
Regardless, you need them here fast so you need an emergency locksmith. If you do not have a suitable commercial locksmith in your contact list, a quick Google search will provide some options.
A quality locksmith will follow the right procedure before and during the service. Also, they will not damage your locks.
But before you call, there are a few things you should be aware of first.
Be Prepared to Show ID & Proof
If you are locked out of the office, a professional locksmith will not come and start working on the locks without first confirming you have the authority to access the premises.
You must provide proof of business ownership or current employment, otherwise, they will not perform any services. Professionals will not want to take chances with property security.
Choose Professional Locksmiths
There are many locksmiths out there but the question is, how qualified are they? Do they have the necessary tools, experience and licenses?
Regardless of how urgent the issue is, you should always hire a professional. They should not only know how to complete the service, but they should also be licensed to do so.
You do not want to cause further damage or a fraudster masquerading as an expert.
Do Not Try To Pick The Locks Yourself
This is something that comes to mind as soon as you realize you are locked out. You feel the urgency of getting access to the office, probably due to some urgent work.
However, no matter how urgent you need to get inside, never attempt to force your way in or work with an unqualified person. This can cause forced signs of entry which is against the law.
Plus if there is any damage that is caused, you will be liable for the costs.
Remember that qualified locksmiths work with high-tech alarms, high-security locking systems, and master keys. This is why you must always work with an experienced and skilled professional.
Commercial Locksmith Services
If this is the first time you have had to call a commercial locksmith, we hope it will be the last. However, it is good to note that they also provide a range of other services other than just gaining entry during lockouts.
They also fix interior and exterior office door locks, office panic bars and window locks. Also, they can fix office safes, supply closets, file cabinets, garage locks, and service master key systems.
They will handle different types of locks whether they are modern or traditional types. This can even include digital access cards.
This flexibility means you may have a few more jobs they can complete when onsite. If not at least save their details for when the next lock issue pops up around the office.
In Summary
It is embarrassing to be locked out of your office, especially when you have no idea where the keys could be. You could also forget your passcode which is very easy to do if it is not written down somewhere.
As you stay prepared for such scenarios, it is important to understand how to access the office. For starters, you should have a reliable 24-hour commercial locksmith saved in your contact list.
You should also be prepared with proof of business ownership or valid employment in case you need to call them.