Lost House or Car Keys? Here’s Your Next Move

Losing your car or house keys can be a stressful and infuriating experience, particularly when you are already running late. Whether they dropped out of your pocket, were misplaced in the house, or were stolen, being locked out is never nice. Don't panic; slowly breathe in and out and use a methodical approach to regain entry with speed and safety.

Along the way, we will walk you through four simple steps to follow when you've lost your keys, from covering your tracks back to calling for help from experts. Get ready and learn how to handle the most frequent glitch easily and confidently.

Check for Spare Keys or Alternative Entry

Prior to calling for assistance, check if you have a spare key. Most people leave a duplicate house key with a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member. If you've also taken this step, call them for assistance. Some vehicles also have electronic key options or phone apps where you can remotely unlock the doors.

If you are locked out of the house, check if a back door, window, or garage door can be opened without forced entry, which will result in damage. But avoid breaking in, as this could result in unwanted repairs or undermine security. If a spare is not an alternative, professional help may need to be contemplated.

Contact a Reliable Locksmith for Assistance

If you are unable to find your keys or gain access to your home or car by any other method, it is best to call a professional locksmith. With an MLA-approved company, you will be assured of a competent and trustworthy locksmith who can safely unlock your door without causing damage. Professional locksmiths possess the training and equipment to open any lock, including security locks.

Make sure they are trustworthy before you employ them through their references and certificates. There are locksmiths who offer emergency services, so you can get assistance at any time you need it. It might cost you, but it is the safest and fastest method of opening up when you've lost your keys. 

Report Lost or Stolen Keys if Necessary

If you suspect that your keys have been stolen rather than misplaced, reporting it is necessary as soon as possible. For home house keys, notify your landlord if you're a tenant, or otherwise have your locks changed to provide protection against unauthorized access. If your car keys have been stolen, inform the police, especially if you have left any identification details with the keys that can lead someone to your home or vehicle.

Further, you can inform your car insurance agency since some car insurance policies provide for key replacement or theft damage. These precautions ensure your protection and minimize risks of break-in or unauthorized vehicle entry.

Take Preventive Measures for the Future

Once you've regained access, ensure that you lock out future occurrences. Consider getting duplicate keys made and leaving a copy with someone you trust or hiding a copy elsewhere. Smart locks and key finders will also keep such mistakes from occurring in the future. A Bluetooth keychain tracker will allow you to quickly locate lost keys through an app on your phone.

If your keys were stolen, it is required that you change your locks to secure your car or property. For car keys, request a replacement or reprogramming of a transponder key. By following these preventive steps, you can avoid the hassle and stress of losing your keys again.

It is frustrating to misplace your car or house keys, but taking the right action can get you back in quickly and safely. Start by retracing your steps and checking for spare keys before calling a professional locksmith. In times of necessity, report lost or stolen keys to ensure your security. To avoid future lockouts, consider preventive measures like spare keys, smart locks, or Bluetooth tracking. While it is annoying to lose keys, staying calm and being wise can make it more tolerable.