Why Spare Key Security Matters

Leaving a spare key accessible is meant to be a safety net, but criminals often target the most obvious hiding spots. A poorly hidden spare key is essentially an invitation for unauthorized access. That’s why understanding secure storage methods is critical—so you can enjoy the convenience without compromising safety.

Common Mistakes People Make

• Hiding keys under doormats: This is one of the first places a thief will check.
• Leaving keys in flower pots: Even decorative pots or planters are predictable hiding spots.
• Storing keys in outdoor grills or mailboxes: While they might seem less obvious, burglars know these tricks too.
• Using fake rocks: Low-quality key hiders are easy to spot and often stand out in your yard.

The key is to think like an intruder—if you can easily think of the hiding spot, so can they.

Best Practices for Storing Spare Keys

1. Give a Key to a Trusted Person

One of the safest ways to manage a spare key is to give it to a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor. Ensure this person is reliable, responsible, and understands the importance of keeping your key safe.

2. Use a Lockbox

A wall-mounted lockbox with a combination code is an excellent option for spare key storage. Choose a heavy-duty lockbox with a weather-resistant design, and install it in a discreet location. Change the combination regularly for added security.

3. Consider a Smart Key Safe

Smart key safes allow you to control access via smartphone apps. You can give temporary digital codes to service providers or guests, which expire after use, ensuring better control over who has access to your key.

4. Hide Keys Away from the Property

If you must hide a key outdoors, place it well away from the immediate vicinity of your home or business. For example, you might hide it on the property of a trusted neighbor or in an outbuilding that is also secured with its own lock.

5. Use Diversion Safes

For those who want a creative hiding method, diversion safes look like everyday objects—like sprinkler heads or electrical outlet covers—but have compartments for keys. Choose high-quality versions that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Special Considerations for Vehicle Spare Keys

Spare car keys require unique precautions. Storing a spare inside the vehicle itself, even in a glove compartment or trunk, is risky since thieves often search these areas first. Instead, consider:

• Keeping a spare at home in a secure spot
• Giving one to a trusted friend or family member
• Using a magnetized key holder hidden in a hard-to-reach spot under the car (only if done carefully)

Always remember that modern car keys often contain chips or fobs, so replacing them can be expensive. Protecting them is worth the effort.

Balancing Accessibility with Security

The main challenge with spare keys is ensuring they are both secure and accessible. A lockbox, for example, offers high security but may not be the fastest to access in an emergency. On the other hand, keeping a key at a neighbor’s house may be quick but depends on their availability.

Before deciding where to store your spare, consider the scenarios in which you might need it—emergencies, travel, or unexpected visitors—and choose a method that balances speed with protection.

When to Change Your Spare Key Strategy

Your spare key plan should not be static. Situations change, and your approach should evolve accordingly. Here are some situations that should prompt a review of your spare key arrangements:

• After moving to a new home or office
• When a trusted keyholder moves away or changes jobs
• If your lock has been tampered with or you’ve had a break-in
• When you upgrade to new locks or smart systems

Regularly reassessing your spare key strategy ensures you’re always maintaining strong security practices.

Upgrading to Keyless Options

If you want to eliminate the risks associated with physical spare keys, consider upgrading to a keyless entry system. Options include keypad locks, biometric scanners, or smartphone-enabled smart locks. With these systems, you can grant or revoke access instantly without the need to distribute or hide physical keys.

While these solutions can be more expensive initially, they often pay off in convenience and enhanced security over time.

Safely storing spare keys is about more than just finding a hiding spot—it’s about implementing a strategy that keeps your property secure while still offering you access when needed. Avoid obvious locations, invest in secure storage solutions like lockboxes, and consider keyless alternatives if you want to remove the risk entirely. By planning ahead and staying vigilant, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your spare keys are both accessible and safe.