What to Do When You Can't Find Your Keys
Lost your keys or locked out of your house? Don't panic! At Cambs Lock & Safe, we've created this practical guide to help you regain access to your property quickly and safely.
Stay calm and assess the situation.
The first and most important step when you can't find your keys is to remain calm. While losing your house keys can be distressing, panicking won't help you think clearly. Remember, there's always a solution for lost house keys - you're not stuck outside forever!
Important: Never attempt to break into your own property. The damage caused could cost far more than calling a professional locksmith.
Contact a professional locksmith.
If you've lost your only set of house keys, your next step is to contact a reputable local locksmith. Here's what you need to know:
- A skilled locksmith can create a new key without the original
- Pricing varies based on door lock types and time required
- Consider whether your lost keys can be traced to your property
- You might need a complete lock change for better security
Lost keys and home insurance
Be aware that losing keys could invalidate your home insurance:
- If someone uses your lost house keys to enter and burgle your property, claims may be rejected
- Many insurance policies require evidence of forced entry
- Taking swift action to replace locks demonstrates responsible security measures
What can we replace?
Our locksmiths can replace various types of keys, including:
- Front door keys
- Back door keys
- Patio door keys
- UPVC door and window keys
- Garage door keys
Understanding replacement costs
Key replacement costs vary depending on:
- Type of door lock (mortice, Yale, security key)
- Time of day/night for service
- Your location
- Whether full lock replacement is needed
While there's no standard pricing (as there's no governing body for locksmiths), we pride ourselves on fair, competitive rates.
Prevention is better than cure.
Consider these security measures:
1. Get spare keys cut - leave them with trusted family members
2. Never hide spare keys outside
3. Consider upgrading to BS3621 locks (insurance-approved)
4. Install anti-snap security features
5. Consider having locks keyed alike for convenience
Key insurance could save you money.
Check your home insurance policy for key coverage:
- Some policies include key insurance
- It may be an additional extra worth considering
- Coverage typically includes locksmith and replacement costs
- Gives peace of mind against future key loss
Professional security upgrades
If you need new locks due to lost keys, consider:
- BS3621 certified locks (preferred by insurers)
- Anti-snap security features
- High-security cylinders
- Smart lock systems
-Keyed-likee solutions for convenience
Need immediate help with lost keys in Cambridge? Contact Cambs Lock & Safe at 01223 353 077. Our expert locksmiths provide 24/7 emergency service, ensuring you regain access to your property quickly and securely.
Remember: While losing keys is stressful, professional help is always available. Our team will get you back inside safely, with minimum disruption and maximum security.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Locksmith charges vary depending on several factors:
- Time of day (emergency/after-hours calls cost more)
- Type of key needed (basic vs high-security)
- Whether lock replacement is required
- Your location
For a standard key replacement during business hours, expect to pay between £50-£100. Emergency callouts can range from £100-£200+.
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Yes, professional locksmiths can create new keys without the original through several methods:
- Taking the lock apart
- Creating a key by code
- Making a key to lock by hand
This service typically costs more than simple key duplication but is often cheaper than full lock replacement.
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Many home insurance policies don't include key coverage as standard, but it may be available as an add-on. Check your policy documents or contact your provider. Key insurance typically covers:
- Locksmith charges
- New keys
- Lock replacement if necessary
- Emergency call-out fees
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Several effective strategies can help:
- Install a key hook by your door
- Use Bluetooth key finders
- Keep spare keys with trusted family
- Establish a consistent storage routine
- Consider upgrading to a smart lock system
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Timing varies by situation:
- Standard key cutting: 5-10 minutes
- Key creation without original: 30-60 minutes
- Full lock replacement: 1-2 hours
- Car key programming: 30-90 minutes
Emergency service is available 24/7 for urgent situations.
Cambs Lock & Safe
93 King Street, Cambridge CB1 1LD
T. 01223 353077
E. info@cambslockandsafe.co.uk
Here are some of the areas we cover in East Anglia:
Peterborough - Ely - New Market - Bury St Edmunds - St Ives - Huntingdon - Hitchin - Royston - March - Chatteris - Soham -Cambourne - Sawston - Histon - Littleport - Burwell - Ramsey - St Neots - Sawtry - Bishops Stortford
