House Lockout in Alexandria, VA

One lockout, several possible doors

Census Bureau estimates for 2024 count only 12.7 percent of Alexandria's homes as detached houses. Another 22.4 percent are attached single-family homes such as townhouses, and 36.3 percent are in buildings with 50 or more units. Which one you live in changes the lockout:

• Buildings with 50 or more units. Management may run the lobby fob, garage and mailbox, while your unit door is a separate lock. If the building entrance is the problem, call management first.
• Townhouses. Note every entry the home has, such as front, rear, patio and garage, and which one is locked; each may have its own key.
• Historic row houses. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources calls the Alexandria Historic District the largest concentration of 18th- and 19th-century urban architecture in the state, including Federal town houses such as the 18th-century row in the 200 block of Prince Street. On an old door, say whether the lock is a mortise lock or a modern deadbolt.

Showing the home is yours

Anyone asked to open a home door has reason to check that it is yours. Have ready, or say where to find:

1. Photo ID showing the address.
2. If the ID shows an old address, a lease, deed or mail addressed to you there.
3. If the papers are inside, a landlord, manager or neighbor who can confirm who you are.

A landlord lockout without court authority is a legal problem, not a lock problem. Under Va. Code § 55.1-1243.1, a tenant willfully excluded that way may petition the general district court, which holds an initial hearing within five calendar days of filing. This is general information, not legal advice.

While you wait

Wait somewhere sheltered, such as a lobby or a neighbor's home. A front desk or manager may be able to vouch for you. If a child is alone inside, a stove is on, or someone inside needs help, call 911 first.

Details for your request

Give the street address or nearest cross street, the building type, which door is locked, and whether the key is inside or lost. If the key is gone for good, ask about lock rekeying once you are back in. Neighborhood notes are on the Alexandria page.