Lost keys: prepare for emergencies

Anyone who has ever lost their key knows it can be expensive. Apart from reliable locksmiths, there are some black sheep on the market who charge multiples of the reasonable price.

How to protect yourself from such scams can be read here.

Table of contents

Just in case: Take precautions
If you lose your key: is a locksmith absolutely necessary?

Hiring a locksmith: Compare prices and agree on a fixed fee
Beware of scams: when to watch out

Just in case: Take precautions
Prepare for emergencies and leave a spare key to your flat or front door with someone you trust.

Trustworthy neighbours are ideal, but friends or relatives who live nearby can also bring the good bit to you if you have lost your key.

Another precaution: find out where the nearest locksmith is in your area and save his number on your mobile phone.

Not only will you always have the phone number at hand, you will also know that the professional door opener will not have to travel far and that you will have to pay in case of an emergency.

If you lose your key: is a locksmith absolutely necessary?

If you have indeed lost your key, ask yourself whether you absolutely need to call the locksmith . Are you entering the house through an open balcony or terrace door? Is there a simple, light door that you could open with a debit card? Only in extreme emergencies should you smash a window, as this repair can also be costly.

Especially late at night and on Sundays and public holidays: unless a baby or pet depends on you or the oven is on, consider spending the night at friends’ or family’s house. Some locksmiths charge surcharges of up to 100 per cent if called late at night, on Sundays or holidays. Sometimes even an overnight stay in a hotel is cheaper.

Hiring a locksmith: Compare prices and agree on a fixed fee
If you cannot avoid calling a locksmith , proceed with caution.

Always ask the relevant provider about the expected price – including travel expenses and any surcharges. Normally, on weekdays between 8am and 6pm, this should not exceed 100 euros to open the door. If this is not simply omitted, but rounded, it can become more expensive. This also applies to off-peak hours such as evenings, nights or early mornings.

It is also advisable to agree on a fixed amount so that you do not face unforeseen costs. Some companies even offer their services at fixed prices. For instance, on a weekday, you can get locksmith services from the Yellow Pages from as little as €89 during the day. The surcharges for weekend, holiday, evening or night shifts are also fixed.