Homes with upper upper level decks that have no stairs to the ground are very common. Apartments and condominiums are other common structures that have such decks. I frequently find doors to these decks that have locksets that can still be locked when you close the door behind you—leaving one stranded—with no way down from the deck or back into the home.
This can be embarrassing and dangerous, if there is nobody around to let you back in or to hear your screams. I suspect it would be especially embarrassing to step out on the deck with nothing more than a towel on—-or less.
In the dead of winter, hypothermia could be a consequence—-in the summer, a nasty sun-burn perhaps. Or perhaps it would be a cure for a nasty smoking habit?
When I find these locksets I recommend that they be changed to a system of security that won’t allow for locking oneself out on the deck. This might include a non-locking-set with a separate dead-bolt.
Of course there is always the possibility of sliding down the downspout (don’t try this at home).
Charles Buell, Seattle Home Inspector
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Very Interesting subject, I wonder if this has ever happened. I can see the potential is their, good post!
I agree with you completely! I dislike these type locks, found one yesterday and a few weeks ago I locked myself into a garage, luckily an agent was there to rescue me. A little embarrassed but I had my clothes on for this inspection. I recommended the lock be changed:)