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Locked out in Brooklyn: how to get back in without getting ripped off

Being locked out is exactly when people make rushed decisions, and some "locksmiths" count on it. A few minutes of checking can save you a lot of money and a drilled lock.

Renting? Try your super or management first, since they may have a key. If you change your own locks, HPD says you must give your landlord a copy of the key. If your landlord locked you out without a warrant of eviction, that may be an illegal lockout: HPD says you can report it at your police precinct or start a case in Housing Court.

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Emergency? Gas smell, CO alarm, fire, sparking or flooding: get to safety and call 911 first.

Before you call anyone

Check for a spare: a roommate, neighbor, family member, or your super or management office.
Check every door you can reach safely. Never climb fire escapes or ledges.
If a child, pet or someone vulnerable is locked inside, or something is on the stove, call 911.

NYC locksmiths must be licensed

New York City licenses locksmiths through the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). Right now, anyone who repairs, services, installs, inspects, or opens and closes locks by mechanical means needs a DCWP Locksmith license. Under Local Law 183 of 2025, individual licenses end on May 31, 2027, and licensing shifts to locksmith businesses. Either way, you can look up a name or license number on the DCWP license search. No account is needed.

How to spot a scam

Generic names and no address: ads that say "Locksmith" with a call center number and no business name.
A low quote that changes on arrival: ask for the full price, including the service call, labor and any parts, before they come. Get it by text.
Going straight to drilling: many standard residential locks can be opened without destroying them. Ask why before they drill.
No ID or license: ask to see their DCWP license and ID. A legit locksmith will also ask to see your ID or proof you live there.
Cash-only pressure: get a written invoice with the business name.

After you're back in

If keys were lost or stolen, think about rekeying, which changes the lock so old keys stop working without replacing the hardware. If you own a brownstone or row house, it's a good moment to check the front door, the vestibule door and the basement door together.

Questions

Do locksmiths need a license in NYC?

Yes. DCWP licenses locksmiths. Through May 31, 2027 individual locksmiths need a DCWP license; after that, the locksmith business must be licensed. You can check on the DCWP license search.

Can a locksmith open my door without drilling?

Often, yes. Many standard residential locks can be opened non-destructively. Ask why before agreeing to drilling.

I rent. Can I change my own locks?

HPD says that if a tenant changes the locks, they must give the landlord a copy of the key. Check your lease too.

Sources

Rules and phone numbers can change. Check the official source before relying on them.

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