The three main lock types and how to open them

Storage units use one of three lock types: a padlock you bring yourself, a built-in cylinder lock on the door, or a combination lock the facility provides. The method to open yours depends entirely on which one secures your unit. If you own the padlock, you use your key or combination. If the facility owns the lock, you'll need to contact them for access — they keep master keys and can open cylinder locks or reset combination locks if you've forgotten the code.

Before you attempt anything, check your lease or rental agreement. It will specify which lock type your unit has and who is responsible for it. Most facilities require you to use their lock or a padlock they've approved, and they may prohibit bolt cutters or forced entry even on your own lock.

Key Takeaways

  • Padlocks you own open with your key or by entering your combination — keep both in a safe place separate from the unit itself.
  • Built-in cylinder locks on the storage door require the facility to open them; call the office and bring ID to prove you're the renter.
  • Combination locks provided by the facility can be reset by staff if you forget the code, usually within one business day.
  • Never cut a lock or force a door open without permission from the facility, even if you own the unit — it may violate your lease and trigger fees.
  • If you've lost your key or forgotten your combination, contact the facility when ready rather than attempting to break the lock.

Opening a padlock you own

If you brought your own padlock, opening it is straightforward: insert your key fully and turn it, or dial your combination in the correct sequence. The most common mistake is not turning the key far enough or not pulling up on the shackle (the U-shaped metal part) while turning. Turn the key until you feel resistance, then pull the shackle upward firmly.

For combination locks, spin the dial at least three full rotations to clear it, then enter your combination. Most padlock combinations require you to stop on the first number, pass the second number once, then stop on the third number. If the lock doesn't open, you may have entered the numbers in the wrong order or the lock may be jammed. Try again slowly, making sure each number aligns with the indicator mark on the lock body.

If you've lost your key, you have two options: contact the lock manufacturer if you have proof of purchase, or cut the lock off with bolt cutters. Before cutting, confirm with the storage facility that you're allowed to remove your own lock — some facilities require them to remove it or charge a fee for lock removal.

Accessing a facility-owned cylinder lock

Cylinder locks are built into the storage unit door itself. You cannot open these without the facility's master key. Call the storage facility office during business hours and tell them you need access to your unit. Bring a photo ID and your lease or rental agreement to prove you're the renter.

The staff will either unlock the door for you on-site or provide you with a key if you've paid your rent and are in good standing with your lease. If you're locked out because you lost your key, most facilities will charge a replacement key fee, typically between $10 and $30. Some facilities may require you to sign a form acknowledging the replacement before they hand over the new key.

If the lock is damaged or stuck, the facility will assess whether it needs repair. You may be charged for damage if the lock was broken by misuse on your part, but normal wear and tear is usually the facility's responsibility.

Resetting a forgotten combination lock code

If the storage facility provided your combination lock and you've forgotten the code, contact the office and ask them to reset it. Most facilities can do this within one business day. You'll need to provide your unit number and proof of identity. Some facilities will reset the lock to a new code they assign; others will let you choose a new code when you visit.

While you wait for the reset, you cannot access your unit. If you need something urgently, ask the facility if they can open the lock for you temporarily. Some will do this at no charge; others may charge an emergency access fee. Plan ahead and store important documents or items you might need in a separate location.

To avoid this situation, write your combination down and store it somewhere safe — not in your wallet or on your phone where it could be lost with your unit number. A safe deposit box, a trusted family member's home, or a password manager are all better options than keeping it in your car or on a sticky note.

What to do if you're locked out and can't reach the facility

If the office is closed and you need access urgently, check your lease for an emergency contact number. Most facilities have an after-hours phone line or an emergency manager on call. Explain your situation and they may be able to let you in or arrange access the next business day.

If you cannot reach anyone and the situation is truly urgent — for example, you need medication or documents stored in the unit — you can contact a locksmith. However, this will cost you money (typically $75 to $200 depending on the lock type), and you may need to show the locksmith proof that you're the renter. Some facilities prohibit locksmiths from working on their locks without permission, so call ahead if possible.

Do not attempt to cut the lock, pry the door open, or break in. This violates your lease, may result in eviction, and could trigger criminal charges if the facility presses them. It also damages the lock and door, which you may be billed for.

Preventing lock problems before they happen

The easiest way to avoid being locked out is to keep your key or combination in two places: one on your person and one in a find location at home. If you use a padlock, take a photo of the combination and store it in your phone's notes app or email it to yourself — not in a photo file where it could be deleted accidentally.

Test your lock every few months to make sure it still works smoothly. Padlocks can jam if they get wet or dusty, especially in humid climates. If your lock is sticking, spray it lightly with a silicone-based lubricant (not WD-40, which can attract dirt). Wipe away excess lubricant so it doesn't drip on your belongings.

If you're renting a unit long-term, ask the facility about their lock replacement policy. Some facilities replace locks for free after a certain number of years; others charge a fee. Knowing this in advance helps you budget and plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any padlock on my storage unit?

Most facilities allow you to use your own padlock, but check your lease first — some require you to use a lock they've approved or provided. Approved locks are usually heavy-duty brass or hardened steel padlocks that resist cutting. Cheap padlocks or combination locks may not meet security standards and could be removed by the facility.

What if I forgot my combination and the facility is closed?

You'll have to wait until the office opens to contact them for a reset. If you need access urgently, you can hire a locksmith to open the lock, but this costs money and may violate your lease. In the future, store your combination in a safe place separate from the unit.

Can the facility open my lock without my permission?

Yes, if you violate your lease — for example, by not paying rent or storing prohibited items. The facility can also open your lock if you abandon the unit or fail to respond to notices. Your lease spells out when they're allowed to do this. If you're current on rent and in good standing, they cannot open your lock without your request.

What should I do if my key broke inside the lock?

Stop trying to open it when ready — you may push the broken piece deeper into the lock. Contact the facility and explain what happened. They can either extract the broken key piece or replace the lock. You may be charged for lock replacement if the damage was caused by misuse, but not if it was a manufacturing defect.

Is it legal to cut off a padlock if I own the unit?

Check your lease before cutting anything. Even if you own the padlock, the facility may require them to remove it or charge a fee. Cutting a lock without permission could be treated as property damage and result in lease violations or fees. Always contact the facility first.