When it comes to home security and convenience, one simple but often overlooked factor can make a big difference: having spare keys. Many homeowners assume that the one or two keys they receive upon moving in are enough. But when emergencies arise, or when households grow, a lack of spare keys can quickly become a problem.
As professional locksmiths, we frequently get calls from clients who’ve lost their only house key or accidentally locked themselves out. In most of these cases, the stress and inconvenience could have been easily avoided if a spare key had been made in advance.
So yes—spare keys are absolutely necessary for residential properties, and in this article, we’ll explain why, along with how locksmiths can help.
Reasons to Have Spare Keys for Every Homeowner
Here are a few logical reasons to have spare keys for all homeowners.
1. Preventing Lockouts
One of the most obvious but critical reasons to have a spare key is to prevent being locked out of your own home. It only takes one rushed morning, one forgotten handbag, or one faulty lock to find yourself stuck outside. In situations like these, a spare key kept in a safe place—or with a trusted friend or neighbor—can save you time, money, and stress.
2. Convenience for Household Members
If multiple family members or roommates live under one roof, spare keys provide flexibility. Instead of coordinating who comes home when or leaving keys under the doormat (which is never recommended), each person can have their own copy. This allows everyone the independence to come and go safely.
3. Emergency Access
Unexpected situations can arise at any time. A family member might need to enter your home to water plants while you’re on vacation, or a neighbor might help during an emergency. Having a spare key ready for such scenarios allows trusted individuals to assist you without breaking a window or waiting for an emergency locksmith to arrive.
4. Cost-Effective Security Management
Losing your only house key can be costly. In many cases, it means having to replace the entire lock system for security reasons. However, if you have a spare, you can avoid that hassle and simply make a new copy from the spare key. It’s a small upfront investment that can prevent a big expense later on.
5. Peace of Mind
Knowing you have a backup key provides peace of mind. You’ll never need to panic about locking yourself out or worry about how someone will enter your home during an emergency. It’s a simple measure that adds a layer of reliability and control over your home access.
How Locksmiths Help with Spare Keys for Residential Properties
While many hardware stores offer basic key duplication, professional locksmiths provide higher quality, secure, and reliable key services tailored to your specific home locks.
Here’s how we can help:
1. Accurate Key Duplication
Not all keys are easy to duplicate—especially high-security or specialized keys. As locksmiths, we use precision tools and machines to create exact replicas, ensuring the new keys work smoothly without damaging your locks.
We also help identify the best materials for durability, especially for keys used frequently.
2. Secure and Legal Key Copying
Some locks come with “Do Not Duplicate” keys or patented designs. In such cases, only certified locksmiths with the appropriate authority and equipment can legally copy them. We ensure that any duplications we make are both legal and secure, giving you peace of mind.
3. Key Management Advice
Not sure how many spare keys you need or how to store them safely? Locksmiths can provide key management advice tailored to your household size, routine, and specific concerns. We help you decide whether to keep a spare at home, with a trusted neighbor, or in a secure lockbox.
4. Rekeying and Key Control
If you’ve just moved into a new home or are concerned about unauthorized access, a locksmith Cheshunt can rekey your locks and provide a fresh set of keys—including spares. Rekeying is a cost-effective way to change who has access to your home without replacing all the hardware.
5. Emergency Services
If you’ve lost your key and don’t have a spare, we’re here to help. Emergency locksmith services can unlock your door, cut a new key on-site, or rekey the lock entirely. However, we always recommend having a spare key ready to avoid needing these urgent—and often more expensive—services.
Final Thoughts
Spare keys are more than just a convenience—they’re a critical part of your home security and preparedness plan. From preventing lockouts to ensuring emergency access, having a few well-placed spare keys can make life easier and safer.
As locksmiths, we help homeowners by providing reliable, secure, and professional key duplication and lock services. If you don’t already have a spare key—or if it’s been years since you’ve reviewed your key setup—it might be time to consult a locksmith and take the simple steps that protect your home in big ways.