Should You Hide a Key On Your Property?

Some people make the decision that it is a good idea to hide a key on their property somewhere. That way, if they leave the house without a key by mistake, or if the key they carry is ever lost or stolen, then they are not locked out because they can retrieve the one that is hidden and gain access that way. This article written by Lock Guy (a professional locksmith based in Essex) explores the question “should you hide a key on your property?”, considers whether this is a good idea and highlights some important considerations to take into account.

Bad Hiding Places for a Key

Burglars know that some people do hide keys on their property and having the key is the easiest way to get in through a locked door. There is evidence and examples of burglars searching all over outside areas for a key that may be hidden.

So, if you are going to hide a key, then make sure it is not an obvious location.

The most obvious locations and ones to avoid are:

Under a doormat
Under a plant pot
Under a garden ornament
Under a bin
Under anything that can move (e.g. after strong winds/rain) to reveal the key

Good Hiding Places for a Key

Whilst there is a no single guaranteed good hiding place, the following suggestions are amongst the least obvious and would be recommended if you are determined to hide a key on your property.

Put the key in a magnetic box and stick it to the underside or the inside of a metallic item (e.g. bench, drainpipe, wall art, sculpture, watering can, lawn mower cover, BBQ, etc.).

Dig a ‘shallow grave’ and bury it in a Tupperware box. Just remember where you have buried it!

Key Hiding Stones are a good product to use as they are not noticeable and they keep the key protected and dry. For example, this key rock safe. Just make sure that the fake rock is buried deep beneath and amongst other similar looking rocks.

Key Safes

If you want to store a key outside for those just-in-case situations, then a key safe should be used.

However, key safes should also be hidden if possible and not obviously visible.

You can read more information on key safes including the benefits, the things to consider and the best key safes to buy in my recent article all about key safes.

Other Considerations

Some properties are more suitable to hiding a key than others. If you have a large outside space (e.g. big garden) then it will likely deter a potential burglar from looking for a key because of the vast number of potential hiding places and the time it will take to search. Conversely, it will not take long to search around a smaller property with less hiding places.

Remember that if the key is exposed to the elements over a longer period of time, then it could corrode. Especially if the key is made from iron or steel, then exposure to moisture will make them rust. This can make the key not work or even damage the lock if a rusted key is inserted.

In conclusion, and in the opinion of a professional locksmith, you should not hide a key outside because it is a security risk and the risk is just not worth it.

A burglar might also read this article for ideas about where to look!

If the hidden key is found and you are burgled, it is unlikely that your insurance will cover you. If possible, leave a key with a trusted neighbour or nearby family member in the event that you do not have your key and you need to get access to your home.

Hopefully this article on should you hide a key on your property has been helpful. If you require further advice and information then contact Lock Guy.

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