Key Security – Burglaries Using a Key

Burglars don’t always force entry to a property. Burglaries using a key are more common than people think. But most insurers will not pay out on a burglary claim if there are no signs of forced entry.

Burglars will often look to see if you hide a spare key on your property, and they know the obvious places to look (e.g. under the doormat, in a plant pot, or hidden under a gnome/ornament).

You, or a previous homeowner, may have given out spare keys in the past. Of course the people should be trusted, but you are also trusting anyone else they may associate with. Over time people can fall out, relationships breakdown, disputes can arise with carers/tradesmen and keys can and do fall into the wrong hands.

Keys also can get lost or stolen quite easily and if the person that is in possession of that key knows or identifies where you live, then your home security is compromised.

Whether the key has been lost, stolen or given away, even if the key is later retrieved, you have no way of knowing if a copy of that key has been made and is in the possession of someone that may want to burgle your property.

Do not leave your keys on show and do not leave them by the door or by an open window. Burglars use hooks and poles to go through your letterbox to take your keys and then use them to gain unlawful entry.

Be aware that most, although not all, home insurance policies will not pay out unless there has been forced entry.

Don't rely on insurers paying out

Some insurers will make an exception, but most require forced entry before they will pay out a claim. Even if you are able to make a claim, you will still need to pay the excess and next time your premium is likely to increase significantly.

Do not make it easy for burglars. If you feel that the security of your property has been potentially compromised, then ask a locksmith about changing your locks. A locksmith will make sure that they are insurance approved locks and fitted correctly. Or why not consider keyless entry solutions? There are many of these on the market nowadays, but they aren’t always the cheapest solution.

I hope this article on Burglaries with a key has been useful to you. If you have any questions or would like to discuss my services please get in contact. And why not have a look at my previous article on How To Prevent Burglaries.

Got a question about a lock issue you may have? Why not have a look at the FAQ page or one of the helpful advice videos on the Media page.