What I do on a lost-keys call
Two separate jobs, usually done in one visit: gain entry, then (optionally) replace the cylinder so the old keys no longer work.
Gaining entry is identical to any other lockout, I pick the lock open non-destructively where possible, which is around 80% of the time. The fact you’ve lost your keys doesn’t change the method; I’m not going to drill just because you can’t find them.
Replacing the cylinder is the important decision. Three situations come up:
- Keys lost inside the house. If you’re confident they’re somewhere on the floor / sofa / a coat pocket, just call me out for the entry, leave the cylinder alone. Once you’re in, your search will probably find them.
- Keys dropped in public or stolen. Replace the cylinder. If the keys had anything identifying the address on them, a key ring with a postcode, a library card, a driving licence in the same bag, replace the cylinder. The £120 for a 3★ anti-snap cylinder is very cheap compared to a burglary.
- Keys lost with the whole bag (tube, taxi, pub). Same, replace.
When I replace the cylinder, you get a BS Kitemark 3★ anti-snap unit which is more burglary-resistant than almost any cylinder currently fitted in a UK home, plus two or three freshly cut keys and a 12-month warranty. I cut the keys from the new cylinder on the van, so you walk back in with a working set before I leave.