What to do when you're locked out
Left your keys inside, door slammed shut, or lost your keys entirely? Stay calm — in most cases you'll be back inside within thirty minutes without any damage to your lock. Follow these steps to avoid unnecessary costs and mistakes.
- First check whether a housemate, neighbour or family member has a spare key.
- Do NOT try to force the lock with a card, screwdriver or wire — this damages the cylinder and makes the repair much more expensive.
- Call a certified locksmith and always ask for a fixed total price up front, including call-out fees.
- Ask about arrival time and whether damage-free opening is possible.
- Have your ID ready — a professional locksmith will ask for it before opening your door.
How we open your door without damage
Our English-speaking technicians work with professional pick tools that open more than 95% of doors without any damage to the lock or door frame. Drilling is only used as a last resort — and only after you've approved the cost of a replacement SKG cylinder.
- Manipulation of pin tumblers with pick tools — the standard method for slammed doors.
- Broken-key extraction without damaging the cylinder.
- Bumping and decoding for high-security cylinders when picking isn't possible.
- Drilling only as a final option — with a written quote for a new SKG cylinder first.
How much does a locksmith cost when you're locked out?
Nova Slotenmaker always works with a fixed price agreed up front. A standard damage-free door opening starts from € 85, including call-out within Amsterdam. There is no evening, night or weekend surcharge. If a cylinder needs replacing, you receive a written quote first — no work is done without your approval.
Locked out anywhere in Amsterdam
Our technicians are stationed across Amsterdam and the surrounding region, so help is always nearby. We cover Amsterdam Centrum, Noord, Zuid, West, Oost and Zuidoost, plus Amstelveen, Diemen, Weesp, Zaandam, Hoofddorp, Haarlem, Purmerend and Almere. Average arrival time inside the Ring: 20 to 30 minutes.
Prevent lockouts: 4 simple tips
Most lockouts can be prevented with small habits and simple security products. Our technicians are happy to advise on the right solution for your home during the visit.
- Leave a spare key with a nearby neighbour or family member.
- Install a certified (SKG-rated) key safe in a discreet outdoor spot.
- Consider a smart lock with pin-code or app access as a backup.
- Have your cylinder checked for wear before it jams — preventative replacement is cheaper than emergency opening.