60-second summary
Just want the basics? Here’s your quick guide to how house keys affect your home insurance:
Does home insurance cover lost keys? Some policies cover replacing lost or stolen keys, but this isn’t always standard. You may need to add key cover or home emergency cover to your policy.
What happens if a burglar uses my lost keys? Many insurers require evidence of forced entry for burglary claims. If an intruder uses a stolen key, your claim may be rejected unless your policy specifically covers unauthorised key use.
How can I keep my keys safe? Avoid leaving them in visible places and store spares securely. If renting out rooms or using Airbnb, inform your insurer to avoid invalidating your cover.
How will losing my house keys affect my home insurance?
If you lose your keys or they’re stolen, it’s important to get the locks changed as soon as possible – not just for security, but to make sure your home insurance remains valid.
That’s because, if your home is burgled, your insurance provider will usually look for signs of forced or violent entry, such as a broken window or a smashed door. If an intruder gets into your home using a key and there’s no sign of forced or violent entry, it’s possible that your claim could be rejected.
If you move into a new home, you should also add changing the locks to your to-do list. There have been instances of previous owners returning to help themselves to the new owners’ valuables. And how many spare keys did the people you bought or rent from give out to friends and family?
Will my home insurance cover lost keys and locks?
Losing your house keys can be stressful and expensive, but the good news is that home insurance could help.
Your policy may include cover for replacement locks and keys, though this doesn’t always come as standard. Some policies may only cover stolen keys, not lost keys, while others will have claim limits. This will vary between providers and policy types. But if key cover doesn’t come as standard, you might be able to add it on for extra protection.
Home emergency cover, which you can also add to your policy for an extra cost, may include locksmith services if you’re locked out or if your home isn’t secure. In fact, your insurance provider may be able to contact a locksmith on your behalf.
Can I change my house locks myself?
As handy as you might be, it’s important not to change the locks yourself. An improperly installed lock could invalidate your insurance if you later need to claim for a break-in or burglary.
Instead, make sure you use a qualified locksmith, ideally one that’s approved by the Master Locksmith’s Association (MLA). Your provider may require you to use an insurance-approved locksmith as part of their policy terms.
You should also check your home insurance policy carefully to make sure that any new locks you have fitted will meet your insurance provider’s requirements.
Be wary of giving out spare keys
Always be careful about giving out your house keys. If someone has an extra set, there’s always a possibility it could fall into the wrong hands.
Lodgers or Airbnb guests will likely have spare keys, but you must tell your insurance provider if you’re renting out rooms. Otherwise, you could find that your policy is invalid if you need to make a claim.
Be aware that the person who lost the house keys could be important too. If a friend or family member loses the key who’s not named on the policy, for example, any claims may be rejected.
Keep your keys out of sight
Always remove your keys from inside locks, keep them stored out of sight and away from windows. This is especially important if you have a dog or cat flap, as intruders might be able to reach in and grab your keys.
Going keyless
Installing a smart door lock could be an option if you’re worried about your keys getting lost or stolen.
Smart door locks work using a code, fingerprint scan or app and many are also compatible with Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant so you can use voice commands too.
If you’re using your phone to trigger a signal to open the door, you don’t even need to take it out of your pocket or bag to get inside. But this does mean that if your phone is stolen or hacked, your home could be at risk.
Make sure you tell your insurance provider if you’re thinking about getting a smart door lock, in case it affects your policy.
I lost my house keys and don't have a spare, what do I do?
Retrace your steps and check nearby locations: Before assuming your keys are lost, check bags, pockets and places you’ve recently visited.
Contact your insurer and review your policy: Some policies cover lost keys or emergency locksmith services. Your provider may arrange an insurance-approved locksmith for you or advise on claim eligibility.
Call a qualified locksmith and replace locks if needed: If you’re locked out or concerned about security, contact an insurance-approved locksmith to regain access and, if necessary, replace locks to prevent unauthorised entry.
Secure your home and update security measures: Once locks are changed, check all entry points are secure. If your keys were stolen, contact the police and consider extra security measures like CCTV or burglar alarms.
Prevent future issues: Store a spare key in a secure location (such as a key safe or with a trusted person) or consider switching to a smart lock to reduce the risk of losing keys again.
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As well as writing for Churchill and Privilege insurance websites, Karen’s CV includes working with M&S, Debenhams, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and John Lewis. With over 20 years of editorial experience for big household names she leads a talented content team with a focus on simplifying personal finance for everybody.
Stephen Maunder is an experienced personal finance editor, having spent more than a decade working for consumer print and online titles. He won several industry awards for his personal finance features at Which?, before becoming Deputy Editor at Compare the Market.
Amy helps make comparing insurance simpler and clearer. Thanks to more than four years’ experience at Compare the Market, she understands what people look for, working closely with insurance providers to offer you deals and services that are fair, easy to understand and right for your needs.
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