Locksmithing/door won't open

Advertisement


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.

James
www.jmlock.com

Locksmithing

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


James

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.

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.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.