The Real Risks of Leaving a Spare Key Outside

key under a mat

We have all been there: locked out, in a rush, and wishing we had left a spare key somewhere accessible.

For decades, hiding a key under the mat or in the garden gnome was the go-to backup plan. But doing so could leave your property seriously vulnerable. Opportunistic thieves know exactly where to look, and if they find that hidden key, your locks might as well be wide open.

In this post, we share why leaving a spare key outside is a risk not worth taking, and outlines safer, smarter alternatives, including the best key hiding devices we recommend.

Why Do People Hide Spare Keys?

Despite the risks, many homeowners still hide spare keys outside simply out of habit or convenience.

It’s often done as a precaution:

  • to avoid locksmith callouts,
  • give kids or tradespeople access,
  • or in case of a forgotten or lost key.
For older residents or busy households, the thought of being locked out can be stressful, so having a “just in case” key nearby feels like a sensible backup.

The Real Risks of Hiding a Spare Key Outside

Unfortunately, what seems like a practical solution can easily become a predictable security flaw, especially when spare keys are hidden in obvious spots like doormats, plant pots, or meter boxes.

While hiding a spare key might seem harmless, it opens up serious security vulnerabilities, especially in suburbs like Kew or inner Melbourne, where opportunistic break-ins are not uncommon. The harsh reality is that criminals are not only aware of common hiding spots, but they also actively look for them.

Here’s why it’s risky:

1. Increased Risk of Break-Ins

Remember, if they have the key:
– No need to force entry = easier, faster burglaries (source)
– Break-ins rose by 24.8% in one year (source)

2. Your Insurance May Not Cover It

Some home insurance providers may reject a claim or reduce payouts if there’s no evidence of forced entry, which can happen if a burglar uses your hidden key. (We cover this more below.)
“One in five people could be at risk of voiding their home and contents insurance policy by not securing their spare key.” (source)

3. Shared Dwellings and Tenancy Risks

In multi-occupancy settings like apartments, share houses, or short-term rentals, spare key hiding spots are often shared verbally or passed down between tenants and guests.

Over time, multiple people, including former residents, cleaners, tradespeople, or guests, may know where that spare key is hidden. This creates a lingering and untraceable security risk, especially when the key isn’t re-hidden or removed after someone moves out or checks in.

4. Digital Access Increases Accountability – Spare Keys Do Not

One of the key advantages of modern digital or smart locks is the ability to track and control access. You can assign individual codes, monitor entry logs, and revoke access instantly, ideal for households, businesses, and short-term rentals.

In contrast, physical spare keys offer no such oversight. Once a key is hidden or handed out, there is no record of who retrieved it or when it was used, leaving your security reliant on trust and memory rather than traceable control.

What To Do If You’ve Already Lost a Key or Had One Stolen

Losing a key or having it stolen should always be treated as a potential security breach.

Here’s what to do next:

  1. Assess the Situation Immediately
    Consider where the key was lost and whether it could be traced back to your property (e.g. was it attached to an address tag or in a labelled bag?). If there’s any doubt, assume it could fall into the wrong hands.
  2. Check for Signs of Tampering or Suspicious Activity
    Inspect your home’s entry points for any unusual marks or signs of attempted entry. If anything seems off, prioritise immediate action.
  3. Call a Professional Locksmith
    Contact a qualified local locksmith (like VicLocks) as soon as possible. Time matters, especially if you believe the key was stolen. A locksmith can assess your risk level and recommend the best course of action.
  4. Rekey or Replace Your Locks
    • Rekeying is often the fastest and most cost-effective option. It renders the lost key useless by changing the internal mechanism.
    • Replacing is best if the lock is old, damaged, or if you want to upgrade to a higher-security or smart lock system.
  5. Consider Upgrading Your Security
    This is also a good opportunity to review your property’s overall security, including lock types, spare key management, and access control systems.
Tip: Avoid delaying action, even if you think the key was just misplaced. It’s always better to be safe and secure than to risk a break-in.

Worried About Your Home’s Security?

If you have lost a key, had one stolen, or are still relying on a hidden spare, now is the time to act. At VicLocks, we help Melbourne homeowners secure their properties with fast, professional locksmith services, from rekeying and lock replacements to smart lock upgrades.

Our team understands the risks and has the experience to advise you on the best security options for your home, apartment, or investment property.

Don’t wait for a break-in to take security seriously.
📞 Call us today, we’re ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to hide a spare key outside?

No, it is not considered safe. Hiding a spare key outside, such as under doormats, in fake rocks, or above door frames, is one of the most common ways burglars gain entry. These spots are predictable and often the first places intruders check. Even “clever” hiding places can be discovered with time or surveillance.

Where should I never hide a key?

Avoid these common locations:
  • Under the doormat or welcome mat
  • Inside a mailbox
  • Beneath a flowerpot
  • On top of doorframes
  • In fake rocks near entry points

These spots are overused and well-known to opportunistic burglars. If someone is targeting your property, these are the first places they will look.

What are the safest ways to manage spare keys?

Instead of hiding keys:

  • Use a lockbox: A wall-mounted lockbox with a code offers better security.
  • Give a key to someone you trust: Like a neighbour, friend, or family member.
  • Upgrade to a smart lock: Digital locks allow for temporary or permanent access codes, removing the need for physical keys altogether.

Read our recommended key storage devices blog post for more secure alternatives.

Do burglars really look for spare keys?

Yes, they do. Many burglaries are crimes of opportunity, and intruders often check for hidden keys before attempting forced entry. Even if a key is not in plain sight, experienced thieves know the common hiding spots, and once found, there’s no evidence of forced entry, which could complicate insurance claims.

Will my insurance cover theft if there are no signs of forced entry?

Not always. Many insurance providers require evidence of forced entry for a theft claim to be approved. (source)If a burglar uses a hidden key to gain access, your claim may be denied. Always check your insurer’s Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or contact them directly for clarification. If in doubt, speak to a locksmith to upgrade your locks and reduce risk.

What’s better: re-keying or installing a smart lock?

It depends on your needs.

  • Rekeying is cost-effective if you want to maintain your existing lock hardware but remove access from old keys (ideal after moving house or losing a key).
  • Smart locks provide enhanced security, flexibility, and accountability, allowing you to assign, revoke, and monitor access via your phone.
For long-term convenience and control, especially for busy households or rental properties, smart locks are increasingly the better option.