Lost Your House Keys? Here’s What to Do Next

Losing your house keys is stressful — especially if it was your only set. Take a breath and work through this in order; it’ll save you money and keep your home secure.

1. Get back inside (safely)

Check for an unlocked window or door, a hidden spare, or a family member with a key. Avoid forcing a door or window — the damage almost always costs more than a professional lockout. A mobile lockout service can open the door in minutes with no damage.

2. Decide: new keys, or rekey?

If you simply misplaced the keys at home, a fresh copy may be all you need. But if the keys were lost in public, stolen, or you’re not sure who has them, rekey the locks. Rekeying changes the lock’s internal pins so old keys no longer work — it’s faster and cheaper than replacing every lock, and it’s the secure choice after a loss.

3. Prevent the next lockout

• Make at least one spare and leave it with someone you trust.
• Consider a keyless keypad deadbolt so a lost key never locks you out again.
• Rekey after moving in or a roommate change so you know exactly who has access.

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