Lost mailbox key – now what?

If you have lost your letterbox key, this is not as bad as if it is the front door key or the car key of your car, but after all you want to take your mail and therefore open the letterbox.

 

→ A well-intentioned tip first: do not try to open the letterbox yourself or even break it open, as this can destroy it and it may not be possible to lock it afterwards.

 

Instead, you should decide between the following two options, or rather contact a locksmith directly, as changing a letterbox lock requires manual skill.

 

Overview

1

First option: reorder the letterbox key

2

Second option: change the lock of the letterbox

3

How is a letterbox lock constructed?

4

How does the locksmith open the letterbox lock?

 

First possibility: reorder the letterbox key

Some locks have a small key number on the letterbox key or the lock. This number can be used to order a replacement key from the manufacturer.

 

This key usually costs as much as a new lock, but there is no need to change the lock.

 

Second option: replace the lock of the letterbox

The second option is to replace the entire lock of your letterbox. The new lock costs only a few euros and can be easily installed by yourself. You can buy such a lock at a DIY store or online.

 

Of course, you should make sure that you choose the right size and measure the old lock beforehand. The average diameter of letterbox locks is about 20 mm.

 

In addition, make sure that the lock hook is not too short but long enough for the letterbox to close properly.

 

How is a letterbox lock constructed?

Basically, there are three different types of letterbox locks. There is the letterbox lock with a flat key that has prongs at the top and bottom, a letterbox lock with pins that looks very similar to a normal front door key but is slightly smaller, and the letterbox lock with a so-called bit key.

 

If it is a pin lock, a locksmith should be hired to open the letterbox and its lock. The alternative is to remove the letterbox and install a new one.

 

However, this is not so easy to do in apartment buildings where the landlord attaches importance to uniform letterboxes.

 

If you need a locksmith, call us. We will help!