For many homeowners, security is a priority at the top of their minds. While many take numerous precautions to keep their home and personal belongings safe, giving a spare key to the wrong person can render such precautions meaningless. With 37 years of experience, Elyria Locksmith Service, Inc. has gained a reputation for providing reliable residential locksmith services to Cuyahoga and Lorain counties. Read on for their helpful guide to handling spare keys.

3 Tips to Consider When Giving Out Spare Keys

1. Don’t Hide-a-Key

Hiding a spare house key around the perimeter of your home may seem like a convenient idea, but it leaves you vulnerable to theft. Burglars could easily find a key hiding under your doormat or planter. A better option is to give a spare key to a neighbor you trust. This will ensure you’ll have access to a spare key should you or a member of your family lock themselves out of your home.

2. Remember Your Landlord

If you’re renting a home or apartment, it’s important that your landlord has an up-to-date copy of your door key as well. This is particularly important if an emergency such a fire or flood occurs in your home while you’re away. Your landlord will need to gain access to prevent damage to your home and belongings.

3. Avoid Making Too Many Copies

Ultimately, the more copies of your house key that exist, the higher the risk that your home could be broken into. Therefore, it’s critical that you keep track of how many spare keys you have and who has them. Instead of distributing a new key each time you need someone to check in on your home or walk your dog, consider retrieving an existing key from someone else. Additionally, locksmiths recommend never giving a spare key to someone you don’t know very well, even if its a new partner or friend.

The friendly and professional team at Elyria Locksmith Service, Inc. helps clients with everything from lock repair to door hardware installation to roadside assistance. As a Certified Master Locksmith and a member of the National Locksmith Suppliers Association, these residential locksmiths have demonstrated the highest level of skill and professionalism. Visit their website today to learn more about their automotive, commercial, and residential locksmith services. You can also call them directly at (440) 366-5625 to schedule an appointment today.