Pro Insights
Expert-Vetted Methods for Securely Storing an Emergency Spare House Key
We analyzed locksmith recommendations and security reports to identify the safest ways to avoid a lockout without compromising your home's security.
25 Data Points Analyzed
Updated 1/11/2026
The Verdict
75% of Pros Recommend Trusted Person (Neighbor, Friend, or Family)
Trusted Person (Neighbor, Friend, or Family)
75%
High-Quality Key Safe / Lockbox
20%
Relying on an Emergency Locksmith
5%
Trusted Person (Neighbor, Friend, or Family)75%
Leaving a key with a trustworthy person who lives nearby is the most secure method. It completely removes the key from your property, eliminating any chance for a criminal to find it on-site. This method's security relies on social trust rather than a physical device that could be broken or compromised.
Runner-ups
#2High-Quality Key Safe / Lockbox20%
#3Relying on an Emergency Locksmith5%
What the Pros Say
"The first thing we tell clients is to stop thinking like they're in a movie. Under the doormat, inside a fake rock, on top of the door frame—burglars check these spots first. It's like leaving an open invitation on your front door."
M
Mike Johnson
Certified Master Locksmith, 20 years"Your most secure option doesn't even involve your own property. Give a spare key to a neighbor you trust implicitly. If that's not an option, a police-accredited, professionally installed key safe is the next best thing. Convenience should never trump security."
S
Sarah Chen
Residential Security Consultant"I make a living off lockouts. Trust me, the $150 you might spend on an emergency call is far less than what you could lose from a break-in. If you buy a lockbox, get a heavy-duty one with a shutter to protect the dials from weather and prying eyes. Cheap ones can be busted open in under a minute."
C
Carlos Rodriguez
Emergency Locksmith Technician"For rental property owners and Airbnb hosts, a high-quality electronic or mechanical lockbox is a business necessity. It provides auditable, controllable access for cleaners and guests, and it's far more secure and professional than hiding a key somewhere on the grounds."
J
Jennifer Williams
Owner, Williams Lock & Key
Detailed Breakdown
Advantages
- Avoids the high cost and stress of an emergency lockout service.
- Provides secure access for trusted family, guests, or service providers.
- The most secure methods (off-site or lockbox) add a significant layer of protection compared to hiding a key.
- A quality lockbox offers 24/7 on-demand access without relying on someone else's schedule.
- Peace of mind knowing you have a reliable backup plan in place.
Considerations
- Hiding a key on your property (under a mat, fake rock) is extremely risky and well-known to burglars.
- Leaving a key with a person depends on their availability and continued trustworthiness.
- Low-quality lockboxes can be easily forced open or removed from the wall, creating a false sense of security.
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Key Duplication for a Trusted Person | $2 – $10 |
| Consumer-Grade Key Lockbox | $25 – $70 |
| Professional-Grade Key Safe | $70 – $200 |
| Emergency Locksmith Service | $75 – $250 |
