We often take our door locks for granted—until they stop working. A faulty lock can be a major security risk and a huge inconvenience. Knowing the signs of a lock in distress can help you address the issue before it leaves you locked out.

Here are five key indicators that it’s time to get your locks checked by a professional locksmith.

1. The Key Isn’t Turning Smoothly

Your key should slide into the lock and turn with minimal effort. If you find yourself having to jiggle the key, push the door a certain way, or apply a lot of force to turn it, something is wrong. This is a common sign of a misaligned lock or internal wear and tear. Don’t ignore it—forcing the key can cause it to snap inside the lock, turning a simple repair into an emergency callout.

2. The Lock is Stiff or Jams

Over time, the internal components of a lock can get dirty or corrode, leading to a stiff feeling. If the lock is difficult to engage or disengage, it’s a sign that the mechanism is failing. A lock that jams completely can leave you locked out or, worse, locked inside. Lubricating the lock with a specialist graphite powder or silicone spray can sometimes help, but it’s often a temporary fix for a larger problem.

3. The Lock Cylinder is Loose

A loose cylinder is a serious security risk. If you can wiggle the entire lock mechanism or it feels loose in the door, it could mean the fixing bolts are loose or have been tampered with. A loose lock is much easier for an intruder to bypass, so it’s critical to have it inspected immediately.

4. Visible Damage to the Lock

Take a close look at your lock. Do you see any obvious signs of damage? This could include scratches around the keyhole, a bent key, or a cylinder that is sticking out further than it should. These can be signs of attempted burglary, normal wear and tear, or even damage from an improperly cut key. Even cosmetic damage can be a sign of a deeper issue.

5. The Door Isn’t Latching Properly

A lock’s purpose is to secure a door, but if the latch doesn’t fully extend into the door frame, it’s not doing its job. This is often a sign that the door or frame has shifted due to weather changes or settling. The lock itself might be fine, but the alignment issue means it’s not providing the security you need. A professional locksmith can quickly adjust the strike plate to get everything back in alignment.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait for a crisis to happen. Getting a lock inspected early can save you a lot of hassle and money down the line. We can assess your locks and provide a full repair or replacement to keep your home or business secure.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation assessment

Call Now: 07971 84 93 58