To be clear, this window is in my house, which I own. However I don't have a key that opens it.
Below is another window in my house (exactly the same as this one) which I do have a key for. I've shown it locked and unlocked & open.
I don't mind breaking the lock, but I still want to be able to turn the handle so that it's closed. How do I do that?
Edit: O-kaaaay… Here's what the window looks like now below.
In process of trying to turn barrel I ripped it out. Removing screws didn't help at all so put them back – impossible to remove handle without it being open first. Trying to force the handle with a claw hammer makes the window bend so much I'm afraid of breaking it. The handle hardly moves at all. I can't see a catch or any other magic thing to click in there. Please help with this massive mess I am now in.
Best Answer
I have opened a similar broken handle. Gently wiggle a thin piece of steel, e.g. stanley blade, between the rotating handle and the fixed base, below the black part of the button. There should be a sprung plastic catch that can be pushed up towards the button and then the handle should turn.
Check your other working lock first. When it is open you should be able to feel the catch.
There are usually two screws holding the handle in place. One under the gold cover on the left and one under the handle when it is open. This is a common window handle and should be easy to find replacements from online stores or local window fitters.