Conservatory door lock not working

A lock from a door in my conservatory that leads out into the garden seems to be malfunctioning. The key is turning but it won’t lock. Why is this happening? How do I fix it? If I hire a locksmith, how long might the work take altogether?

Asked by Carol on 29th Apr 2021
Expert Trade Answers
"There could be one of a number of issues - the lock itself, the handle or the gearbox. How long it takes then depends on each individual issue."
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Sep 2020 - report
"First thing try and lube the lock and mechanism with WD40 and work the key with the door open to see if the latches are moving up an down an also look to see when you are turning the key if the mechanism of the lock is operating if no singe of movement then it could be one of two things your key barrel lever arm is broken or your mechanism has failed and will need replacing"
Answered on 1st May 2021 - Member since Nov 2020 - report
"Hi, a locksmith will need to call out to provide a timescale and cost"
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Oct 2019 - report
"It should be a simple solution for a locksmith.
If you try this...
Open the door
Lift the handle and turn the key. If this works whilst open, we know its a simple alignment issue you have.
A locksmith should be able to sort that easily within the hour"
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Sep 2019 - report
"Call a locksmith. It will take about an hour.
We will remove the multipoint locking system and then check if the gearbox needs a new one ."
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Dec 2018 - report
"Hi Carol it may be that you just need a new lock,!! The cam inside may have snapped due to use, Aldo this could maybe a mechanism problem which is the full strip down the middle of the door, this work on average can take upto a half a hour but a lock change can Take 10 mins cheers"
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Oct 2020 - report
"Hello, this is gearbox failure.
There is small chance it’s cylinder, then not expensive cost to repair.
Gearbox needs to be identified first.
8 out of 10 jobs can be done in one visit. But there is possibility locksmith not having this type of gearbox in stock. Then have to order and revisit!"
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Dec 2020 - report
"You may need a new lock if it is a multipoint lock it may be possible to change the centre lock sometimes you cannot change that centre lock which means you may need a full multipoint lock"
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Aug 2019 - report
"Hi

Firstly you need to Identify the type of lock you have (do you have to lift the handle to turn key and lock usually plastic doors).

Secondly find out if its an alignment issue or if the lock has failed completely. This can be tested by repeating the locking process with the door in the open position. If it "locks" smoothly then the door is likely to require adjustment via hindges. If the lock doesn't move bolts smoothly with the door open then its likely to be a faulty lock. Locks can vary alot in price so identification will be needed and potentially replacement ordered if its not standard.

I hope this helps."
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Jan 2019 - report
"If the key is turning and the door isn’t unlocking your locking system has failed this will need a locksmith to get the door open & the gear box to be replaced...it should take an hour if the locksmith has all the parts on the van"
Answered on 29th Apr 2021 - Member since Dec 2020 - report
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