A key braking off inside a lock is a frustrating experience. But for apartment renters, it could throw a wrench in your day since many apartments only have one door. With no other way into your apartment, you have to deal with the issue as soon as possible. Luckily, there are a few home remedies that could help solve the issue without the need to spend money on a locksmith. If you can’t simply pull the key blade out with your fingers, try one of these methods.
- Pliers: Carefully insert a pair of needle-nosed pliers into the keyhole and twist it back into the vertical position. It may help to spray penetrating oil into the keyhole first for lubrication. At this point, you may be able to grab the key blade and pull it out with the pliers.
- Saw: If the pliers don’t work, try inserting a scroll saw blade or jig saw blade into the keyhole. Ensure that the saw teeth are pointed down. As you push the saw blade into the keyhole, you should feel the teeth grab onto the cuts in the key blade. You may be able to gently pull out the key blade in this fashion.
- Screwdriver: The next method is to try inserting a flathead screwdriver or small blade into the keyhole. You can then use the handle as the key itself, twisting it to operate the lock with the broken key inside. However, while you can now lock and unlock you door, so can other people. Be sure to ask a trustworthy friend or family member to stay at your place while you track down a more permanent solution.
If these do-it-yourself methods aren’t successful, you may need to call a locksmith. A professional may have additional ways to remove the broken key blade. In severe cases, the lock cylinder may need to be drilled out and replaced with a new lock set. You’ll also need new keys in that scenario.
Hopefully, the situation can be resolved quickly. But if something should go wrong and you suffer any damage or loss to your property while the lock is compromised, your renters insurance policy can step in and reimburse you for losses.
Are you covered? Call Peachstate Insurance at (877) 997-2478 for more information on Douglasville renters insurance.