AboutJames Expertise I am knowledgeable in almost every area of Locksmithing. This includes locks, keys, lost keys, residential and commercial lockouts, rekeying, masterkeying, high security locks, access control, electric locks, security cameras and home safety. I have been running an online business since 2004 where I sell all types of lock and security hardware to everyone from apartment renters to business owners to the US government. Before that I started a locksmith service in 1999. I deal with many types of security equipment including high security safe locks, heavy duty padlocks, exit devices, biometric readers, electric strikes, magnetic locks, full surface hinges and I only sell what I personally stand behind 100%. The online business has given me a more in-depth look at the locksmithing industry, helping me to learn more about each and every product that I offer, as well as products I don't have but end up finding for customers to solve any issues they have with security or door hardware.
Please don't submit any automotive or safe questions as these aren't areas that I can help in.
Experience I have been Locksmithing since 1999 and own my own Locksmithing business. I have many years of hands-on experience through the many services I have performed for my customers. I've run my business the way I wanted, treating everyone as I would like to be treated and knowing that any customer could be my last if I didn't perform my locksmithing duties as I had promised.
Organizations Montana Locksmith Association
Education/Credentials I have a diploma in Masterkeying, Advanced Locksmithing & Locksmithing from Foley-Belsaw.
Past/Present Clients US government, colleges, schools, city and state governments, large and small corporations, home owners.
Question We have a mother-in-law quarters downstairs, so there is a locking lever type
knob on the door. The door is currently not locked, but the door won't open.
The handle goes up & down but the "mechanism" inside isn't working. Is my
only option having to remove the whole door knob(lever)? If so, how do I go
about doing that with out ruining the door or the frame? I'm on the side of
the door with the keyhole, so there isn't any visible screws.
Answer Hello Vanessa,
Are you certain the lock is unlocked? Some locks allow the knob or lever to turn even when the lock is locked.
You'll have to pry the latch back, if possible, with a thin stiff object like a cake icing spreader.
If that doesn't work you'll have to hire a locksmith to drill the lock off and replace it.
Without access to the screws you don't have many options.
