🚨 Urgent? If your premises can't be secured or opened, see our 24/7 emergency shutter repair service or WhatsApp us now.
Why this happens
When a shutter won't go up, it's usually one of three things: no power or signal reaching the motor, a mechanical jam or locked part, or (on manual shutters) a spring that's lost tension so the shutter is too heavy to lift.
| Likely cause | Tell-tale signs |
|---|---|
| Power off, tripped breaker or isolator off | Nothing happens at all |
| Lock seized or not fully released | Shutter won't lift at all from the bottom |
| Motor failed or overheated | Humming, clicking or silence when pressed |
| Snapped or weak spring (manual) | Shutter suddenly far heavier than usual |
| Slat or bottom bar jammed in the guide | Shutter lifts slightly then stops |
Safe checks you can do first
- Make sure all locks and padlocks are fully released, including side and bottom locks.
- Check the breaker and isolator switch; reset a tripped breaker once only.
- Try both the wall switch and remote.
- On motorised shutters, find the manual override (chain or crank) and try it gently.
What not to do
- Don't use tools to lever the shutter up.
- Don't let several people try to force a heavy manual shutter, as a broken spring can make it drop suddenly.
- Don't keep resetting a breaker that trips again. That's an electrical fault.
💡 Fastest way to a fix: WhatsApp us a short video of the shutter (from a safe distance), a photo of the motor or lock area if visible, and your location. We'll usually be able to tell you the likely cause and a price range straight away.
How we fix it
We find whether the fault is power, controls, motor, lock or spring, then repair it. Often we get you open on the first visit, by replacing the lock, freeing the jam, re-tensioning springs or repairing the control box. If a motor must be ordered, we can usually open the shutter manually in the meantime.
How much will it cost?
Jam and lock repairs start from $150–$180. Spring work starts from $250, and motor replacement from $600. Urgent after-hours attendance starts from $250.
Note on pricing: these are starting prices. The final cost depends on the complexity of the fault, shutter size and type, parts needed and site access. A site visit is needed for an accurate quote, and the site visit is free. See the full price list.