What Is a Key Safe?
A key safe (also called a key box or key lock box) is a small, wall-mounted metal box that stores one or more spare keys behind a combination lock. It provides secure emergency access to your home without hiding a key under the mat or leaving one with a neighbour.
Who Needs a Key Safe?
- Elderly or vulnerable residents — allows carers, family members, or emergency services to access the property without the resident having to get to the door
- Landlords and property managers — provides secure key access for maintenance visits and tenant changeovers
- Airbnb and holiday let hosts — enables self-check-in without key handover
- Anyone who's been locked out before — a key safe means you always have backup access
- Families — children can access the house after school without carrying a key
Choosing the Right Key Safe
Security Rating
Not all key safes are equal. Look for these ratings:
- LPS 1175 Issue 8 SR1 — the highest security standard for domestic key safes. Required by many local authorities for carers' key safes
- Sold Secure Approved — independently tested against attack
- Police Preferred Specification (Secured by Design) — meets police-approved security standards
Avoid cheap, unrated key safes from general retailers — they can often be opened in seconds with basic tools.
Size and Capacity
Most domestic key safes hold 3-5 standard keys. If you need to store larger sets (landlords, managing multiple properties), larger models holding 10-20 keys are available.
Combination Type
Push-button combinations are the most common and reliable. Some models offer digital keypads with audit trails. Avoid dial combinations in outdoor settings — they can seize in cold weather.
Installation
A key safe must be properly installed to be secure. This means:
- Wall-mounted with coach bolts into solid masonry (not timber, plasterboard, or render only)
- Positioned out of direct sight from the street where possible
- At a comfortable height for the primary user
- Protected from extreme weather — a covered porch or sheltered wall is ideal
Our local locksmiths supply and fit key safes, ensuring correct installation into solid masonry for maximum security.
Key Safe Best Practices
- Change the combination regularly, especially after sharing it with temporary users
- Don't use obvious combinations (1234, 0000, your house number)
- Don't attach anything to the key that identifies your address
- Test the key safe regularly to ensure smooth operation
Get a Key Safe Fitted
We supply and install police-approved key safes across all our service areas. Call 0330 133 1339 for a quote. We cover Coventry, Leamington Spa, Nuneaton, and all surrounding areas.