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Losing a key can be a significant inconvenience. Not only do you need a locksmith to open the door, but the associated costs can be substantial. In the case of lock systems, existing locks may need to be replaced, and if a master key is lost, costs can quickly escalate into the thousands. The type of insurance coverage that applies in the event of a lost key depends on whether the lost key is "foreign" or "own."

Loss of Other Peoples Keys

When it comes to the loss of other peoples keys, insurance companies distinguish between privately and professionally used keys. For example, a key to a rental apartment provided by a landlord is considered a private key. If the key is used in a professional context, such as keys provided by an employer for office spaces, it is termed a professional key. In both cases, policyholders are covered by private liability insurance, which also covers the costs of replacing the lock or locksmith services. However, an exception exists for keys primarily used to perform professional duties, such as those used by delivery personnel or janitors

Loss of Own Keys

In the event of losing the key to your own house or condominium, private liability insurance typically does not cover the loss. Here, a household insurance policy with a home and apartment protection letter can help in emergencies. This protection letter usually covers the cost of unlocking a door up to €500. However, it does not cover the replacement of locks. When losing a master key for an apartment building, liability insurance will cover the costs incurred by the community. The cost of a key for a rental apartment is only insured if it belongs to the landlord; this does not apply to condominium owners. Costs for keys to communal property are generally insured. In some cases, the complete replacement of a locking system is also covered.

What About Consequential Damages?

In the worst-case scenario, losing a key could lead to a burglary in the affected building. Such consequential damages are not covered by private liability insurance. However, for homes and apartments, compensation can be claimed under a household insurance policy. For commercially used spaces, compensation can be sought under a contents insurance policy.

After the Loss

If a key goes missing, it is important to report the loss to the landlord as soon as possible. If the key was stolen along with a handbag containing identification documents, the risk of burglary is high. In such cases, the police should also be informed. It is crucial to note that if someone finds the key and uses it to enter the apartment, it is not considered a burglary, and no insurance coverage applies.

The Case of the Apartment Door

If the affected person does not have access to a spare key, the next logical step after losing the key is to select a local locksmith. Caution is advised, as many less reputable providers exploit the emergency situation of customers regarding the cost of unlocking the door. It can be helpful to ask the landlord for a recommendation. Reputable providers usually offer a fixed price and the option of card payment, as they do not fear independent invoice verification.

The cost of locksmith services varies significantly between federal states. A nationwide price study for locksmith services reveals that a simple door opening in Berlin costs an average of 69 €, while in Rhineland-Palatinate, it is almost twice as expensive at 151 €. Generally, the data shows that prices are higher in rural areas compared to big cities. One reason for this could be the higher number of locksmith services in urban areas leading to more competition. In contrast, the lack of competition in rural areas might give scammers a better chance to rank high in Google search results.

Preventive Measures

To avoid the cost and stress of an expensive locksmith, Trisor GmbH offers the perfect storage solution for your spare key. The security company provides fully automated, state-of-the-art safe deposit boxes. These safe deposit boxes, accessible within a secured customer cabin, are available anytime without an appointment, offer the highest level of security with 15 cm thick reinforced concrete walls, and are delivered by robotics to a dispensing compartment. The process from registration to opening your personal safe deposit box is quick and easy. After online registration and on-site identity verification, you can use your safe deposit box independently.