Losing spare keys can happen to anyone, whether it is for your home, car, or office. You may not even realize they are missing until you need them or start wondering who might have access to them. The good news is that with the right steps, you can restore security, prevent future issues, and regain peace of mind.
Take a Moment to Assess the Situation
Before rushing to change locks or make new keys, it is important to pause and think. Try to remember when you last saw the spare set. Was it lent to someone? Could it have been misplaced during a move or a trip? Taking a few minutes to retrace your steps might save time and cost later. Sometimes keys show up in forgotten drawers or coat pockets after a simple check.
If you believe someone else might have found them, such as a neighbor or visitor, reach out and ask directly. It might feel awkward, but it can help clarify what happened before taking further action.
Evaluate the Security Risk
Not every lost key creates the same level of concern. Losing a spare for a locked storage box is not the same as losing one for your front door or car. Think about what the key opens and who might find it. If the keys were attached to anything that identifies your address or workplace, the risk is much higher.
In those cases, it is better not to take chances. Even if the key ends up in honest hands, you cannot be certain it stayed there. Replacing or rekeying the lock is often the safest option.
Decide Whether to Replace or Rekey
When security is uncertain, one of the most practical options is to rekey your locks. Rekeying allows you to keep your existing locks but change the internal pins so that old keys no longer work. It is faster and usually less expensive than full replacement.
A professional lock rekeying service can handle this process efficiently for homes, offices, or rental properties. We often recommend rekeying when spare keys are lost but there are no visible signs of tampering or forced entry.
If your locks are old, damaged, or difficult to operate, replacing them entirely might make more sense. In that case, take the opportunity to upgrade to modern high-security locks that offer better resistance to picking or duplication.
Contact a Professional Locksmith
If you have determined that your security might be at risk, it is time to involve a professional. A qualified locksmith in Calgary can inspect your locks, rekey or replace them, and provide spare copies for future use. Working with a local expert ensures you get the right advice for your type of property and lock system.
When you call a locksmith, share details about what happened. Explain whether you suspect theft or if the keys were simply misplaced. This helps the locksmith determine the best response and avoid unnecessary work.
Recheck Hidden or Shared Locations
Sometimes spare keys are hidden outside or stored with a trusted person. If that is your case, verify whether those spares are still where you left them. Outdoor hiding spots, such as under mats or inside fake rocks, might not be as secure as they once were. Burglars know these tricks and can easily find them.
If you previously gave copies to family, roommates, or workers, confirm they still have them and keep track of who holds each copy. Creating a written or digital record can help you avoid confusion in the future.
Consider Upgrading to Smart or Keyless Entry
If losing physical keys is a recurring problem, switching to a smart or keyless lock system might bring long-term relief. These systems allow you to unlock doors using a code, smartphone, or fingerprint instead of traditional keys. You can change access codes instantly if needed and see when someone enters.
Smart locks can also send alerts when doors are opened, which adds another layer of security. They are particularly useful for rental properties or offices where multiple people need controlled access. While the initial cost is higher, they often save time and worry later on.
Check Insurance and Warranty Coverage
Before replacing or rekeying locks, it is worth checking whether your home or renter’s insurance covers such costs. Some policies reimburse locksmith services in cases of lost or stolen keys. Additionally, if your locks are still under manufacturer warranty, you might receive free or discounted replacements.
Call your insurance provider and explain the situation. Even if they do not cover the locksmith directly, they may require you to document the event in case of future claims related to theft or unauthorized entry.
Prevent Future Key Loss
Once your immediate issue is resolved, focus on preventing it from happening again. Start by reducing the number of physical keys you use. If possible, keep only one spare copy per essential lock. Store it in a safe but memorable place, such as a small labeled box or drawer that only household members can access.
Label your keys carefully but never include identifying information like addresses or apartment numbers. If you use keychains, avoid those with your name or contact details. Instead, use small tags or colors to help you recognize keys without exposing personal information.
For workplaces, consider implementing a sign-out system for spare keys. This helps track who has what and ensures accountability.
Create a Key Management Plan
Many people do not realize that managing keys is part of maintaining property security. Having a simple plan makes it easier to stay organized. Write down which locks you have, where spares are kept, and who has access. Keep this information in a secure digital document or a locked drawer.
If you live with others, communicate openly about key use. Let everyone know where official spares are stored and make sure they understand not to make unauthorized copies.
For businesses, assigning one person to oversee key control can prevent confusion. Regularly review the list of keyholders and update it when employees leave or roles change.
Be Cautious with Replacement Keys
When replacing or duplicating keys, always use a trustworthy locksmith or hardware store. Avoid sharing photos of your keys online or through messages, as those images can be used to create duplicates. If possible, request keys stamped with “Do Not Duplicate.” While it is not a guarantee, it adds a layer of deterrence.
Ask the locksmith to verify that the copies work smoothly before leaving. A poorly cut key can damage your lock or get stuck inside.
If You Suspect Theft or Unauthorized Access
If you have any reason to believe your keys were stolen rather than lost, act immediately. Change or rekey your locks without delay, especially if your wallet, ID, or mail was taken with them.
For vehicles, modern keys often have transponders or electronic chips. In these cases, the locksmith can disable the lost key so that it no longer starts the car. This prevents anyone who finds it from driving away with your vehicle.
You should also inform local authorities if you think your home or office may be targeted. A police report helps protect you and might be required for insurance claims.
When to Rekey vs Replace Locks
To decide between rekeying and replacement, consider the condition and age of your locks. If your locks are still strong, smooth to operate, and compatible with current key standards, rekeying is usually enough. However, if they are rusted, hard to turn, or use outdated mechanisms, replacement is the better option.
Rekeying works best for immediate security restoration without a full hardware change. Replacement, on the other hand, gives you a chance to modernize your security system. If you are unsure, consult a local locksmith who can assess your specific setup and recommend what suits you best.
What About Car Keys
Losing spare car keys can feel more stressful, but the same logic applies. First, confirm whether they are simply misplaced or potentially stolen. If stolen, have the car reprogrammed so the missing key no longer works. Modern vehicles often require professional tools for this process, which a locksmith can handle.
Even if you still have a main key, consider ordering a new spare right away. Having at least one backup key saves you from costly emergency calls if you lose your only working key in the future.
Make It Easy to Get Help
When you are unsure what to do or feel unsafe after losing spare keys, do not handle it alone. Professional locksmiths can provide reliable solutions quickly. If you need advice or immediate service, you can always contact us for assistance. Whether it involves rekeying, replacement, or simply guidance on what step to take next, help is available 24 hours a day.
FAQ
What should I do first after losing my spare keys?
Start by retracing your steps and checking common spots. If you cannot find them and worry they might be lost outside, rekeying or replacing your locks is the next logical step.
Can I just get new keys made without rekeying?
You can if you are certain no one else has access to the lost keys. However, if there is any doubt, rekeying offers stronger protection.
Is rekeying better than replacing locks?
Rekeying is faster and cheaper, while replacing is ideal when locks are old or damaged. Both restore security, but the right choice depends on your specific situation.
How can I prevent losing spare keys again?
Keep only essential copies, store them in a safe location, and create a record of who has them. Avoid hiding keys outside your home.
Can a locksmith make a new key without the original?
Yes, professional locksmiths can create a new key by decoding the lock or using specialized equipment. This is common for both homes and vehicles.