When getting a spare key cut, it’s important to think carefully about where you will place this key. It needs to be somewhere that’s easily accessible when you need it, but also somewhere it’s unlikely to fall into the wrong hands. This post takes a look at some of the best and worst locations to keep a spare key to help you choose the right location.
Should you keep a spare key?
Having a spare key can be useful if you lose or forget your key. Without a spare key, you could be forced to call out a locksmith every time your key gets misplaced - which is a hassle and will cost you money. If you’ve already had to do this, it could be a sign that you need a spare key.
A spare key can also be useful if you regularly need to let visitors into your home when you’re not around, but don’t want to cut them a separate key. This could include people like dog-walkers, real estate agents, landscapers or contractors. It’s much more secure than having to leave a door or gate unlocked, and also prevents you having to be at home all the time.
Of course, keeping a spare key does come with its security risks. Plus it is still possible to lose a spare key. Keeping the contact details of a locksmith such as these
Locksmith Savers locksmiths is recommended - whether you choose to have a spare key or not. Ultimately, whether or not it’s a good idea all comes down to where you choose to place your spare key…
What are some of the worst places to keep a spare key?
A poorly placed spare key could invite intruders into your home. One of the most
common ways in which burglars access properties is simply by using a spare key. It’s important to avoid obvious places where a burglar is likely to look. This includes places such as:
Under the doormat
This is often the first place that a burglar will check. Never place a spare key under your doormat as there is a high chance that an unwanted guest will find it.
Above the door frame
Hiding a spare key above the door frame may seem like a discreet hiding spot, but this is in fact another classic place where people keep a spare key and is likely to be the second place that a burglar will check. Avoid placing your spare key here too.
In a plant pot
Another common place to put a spare key is in or below a plant pot near the front door. A burglar is likely to check any nearby planters, so avoid this popular hiding spot.
In a cheap fake rock
You can buy ‘fake rocks’ online that you can open and place a key in. This might seem like a clever hiding spot, but a seasoned burglar will be able to easily identify these rocks. This is particularly the case with cheap fake rocks, which look less authentic and are more commonly used - making them easy for a burglar to distinguish.
Near the front door
Given enough time, a burglar is likely to check all around the front door for a spare key. Avoiding hiding it under any ornaments or in any plant beds near your entrance.
What are some of the best places to keep a spare key?
Rather than trying to hide your spare key somewhere around your property, it is often better to keep it somewhere guarded - either giving it to someone you trust to keep onto or keeping it within another locked container. Some of the best locations include:
With a trusted neighbor
Letting a neighbor who you trust keep onto your spare key is a good idea. Just make sure that it is a neighbor who is regularly at home. Hiding your key outside a neighbors property with their permission is also an option - if a burglar finds it, they may assume that it’s for your neighbor’s house and not yours.
With a family member
Leaving your spare key with a family member could also be a wise move - especially if it’s a family member who regularly needs access to your home. Ideally, choose a family member who lives locally, so that you can easily collect the key if you need it.
In a lockbox
Lockboxes are typically installed on the outside wall of a property. They are containers that require you to enter a code to access them. You can find an array of
different lockboxes online including smart lockboxes that are opened using an app on your phone. When choosing a combination for your lockbox, try to choose something non-obvious, and make sure the numbers are well scrambled after returning the key.
In your backyard
Your backyard is a far better place to hide a spare key than around the front of your property. This is particularly the case if you have a large backyard with lots of ornaments and potted plants - even if a burglar is daring enough to enter your backyard, they may not know where to start when searching for a spare key. Just try to avoid places that could be obvious (if you only have one ornament in your backyard, don’t hide your spare key under it).
In your home/car
You could consider keeping a spare key to your home in your car, and a spare key to your home in your car. Providing that you don’t lose both your house key and your car key, this provides a secure place to keep your spare key. In either case, it’s still a good idea to hide your key.
Conclusion
Having a spare key can be a good idea so long as you keep it in a secure place. Avoid obvious hiding spots around your front door, and instead consider leaving it with trusted individuals or using a lockbox. Alternatively, hide your spare key in your backyard, inside your home or in your vehicle.
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