If you have been burgled, your first call should be to police on 000 (if the intruder may still be present) or 131 444 (to report a break-in that has already occurred). Do not touch or clean anything until police have attended. Once police have cleared the scene, call an emergency locksmith immediately to replace damaged locks, secure entry points, and restore your property's security. Most locksmiths can attend within 30–60 minutes for break-in repairs.
What to do right now
- 1
Call the police
If you suspect someone is still in or near your property, call 000 and do not enter. If the break-in has already occurred and no one is present, call 131 444 to report it. You will need the police report number for insurance claims.
- 2
Do not disturb the scene
Do not touch doors, windows, or any items until police have attended and cleared the scene. Fingerprints and other evidence may be present. Take photos of all damage from a distance for your insurance claim.
- 3
Call an emergency locksmith
Once police have finished, call a 24/7 emergency locksmith to replace or repair all damaged locks and secure all entry points. Ask the locksmith to assess all doors and windows, not just the obvious entry point — intruders sometimes damage multiple locks.
- 4
Contact your insurance company
Report the break-in to your insurer as soon as possible. Provide the police report number, photos of damage, and the locksmith's tax invoice. Most home and contents policies cover lock replacement after a break-in.
- 5
Upgrade your security
Ask the locksmith about upgrading to higher-security locks, installing deadbolts on all external doors, adding security screen doors, and fitting window locks. Consider a security camera system and alarm. These measures reduce the chance of a repeat break-in.
When to call an emergency locksmith
- ⚠️Your door or window locks have been forced, broken, or drilled during a break-in
- ⚠️You need all locks changed because the burglar may have taken keys
- ⚠️A door frame has been damaged and the door can no longer be secured
- ⚠️You need emergency boarding or temporary securing of a broken window or door
- ⚠️Your garage door lock or roller shutter has been forced open
- ⚠️You want a security assessment and lock upgrade after a break-in
How much does it cost?
Emergency lock replacement after a burglary typically costs $150–$400 per lock depending on the type and quality. A full house rekey (all locks changed to one new key) ranges from $300–$800 for a typical 3-bedroom home. Door frame repairs cost $150–$400. Security screen door lock replacement costs $120–$300. After-hours surcharges apply — expect $50–$120 extra for evening, weekend, or public holiday callouts. Most of these costs are claimable on home insurance with a valid police report.