Opening Key safe boxes, installing key safe boxes, what are key safes and are they any good?
July 30, 2025
Opening, installing and information about key safe boxes
First we will start with what is a Key safe.
A Key Safe box – Keysafe - is a strong metal box in which you can securely store the key or keys to your property. It is installed into brick or concrete on the outside of your property and can be accessed using a combination code. It is a mechanical digital lock – meaning it does not require electricity or batteries as it is not electronic. This saves you from having to make sure the batteries are topped up and any failures that can result from dead batteries.
Why would I need a key safe?
There are a few reasons you would want a lockbox installed outside your property.
• Allowing guests to enter your property when renting as a holiday flat in websites like Airbnb.
• Gain access to medical staff when there is an elderly or disabled person at home.
• Access to cleaners, babysitters or other temporary staff.
• Keeping a spare key for yourself if you tend to forget or lose your keys.
• Allowing access to couriers and delivery man while away from home. Usually when customers have porches or front entrance extensions.
A key safe can be a real time and money saver allowing temporary access to your home, flat or property. Perhaps you have an elderly person at home and are expecting NHS staff or health care professional for daily sessions. You could also be expecting deliveries to a safe location or cleaners to come to your house during work hours or while running errands. Key safe boxes will also give you and your guest flexibility when checking in or out of short term rented holiday properties.
In these times this can be especially relevant if you have someone needing to obtain keys that must quarantine. Simply place the keys and they can access without human contact, perfect solution for passing along keys during Covid19 Lockdowns.
Priorities when installing a key safe box.
When choosing to install a key safe box make sure you follow some safety procedures
1. Make sure the Key safe is essential. We advise only using them in situations where there is no other option whilst also following these guidelines.
2. Keep the key safe box off site – or out of eyesight. If there is a ledge near the house behind a wall underneath a shrub, that would be the best place for it. Even better if you can’t tell which property it belongs to.
3. Securing it in a solid concrete or brick wall. This will minimise damage or burglary attempts and ensures the best job is done to secure it in place.
4. Choosing a combination of more than 5 digits. Don’t make it easy like 12345 either…
5. Change the code regularly.
6. Last but not least, if you decide to buy it yourself – do not buy the cheapest one on the market - these can be easily opened with as little as a red bull can.
Key safe box not opening? Are the buttons or dials not working on the key safe box?
First things first here’s some advice on avoiding it jamming.
Always place the keys exactly where marked on the inside of the key safe box, make sure they don't jiggle around too much as they can get caught in the mechanism of the lock. Do not attach chains and many rings to the keys being placed inside the key safe box.
If you have found that you key safe box is not opening, you’ve tried spraying it with WD-40 and maybe even some grease and it still won’t open here is some advice from one of the leading manufacturers “Supra”.
“Grasp the keybox with one hand, then reach under the keybox and try to wiggle the key container to loosen them, then try to obtain the key/s again. If it appears that a house key is jammed between the keybox and the key container, try sliding a thin strong object such as a metal fingernail file up between the inside of the keybox and the key container, to dislodge it.”
In the case of a seriously jammed Key safe box, most bypass methods won't work either. This is because if the mechanism isn't working or very seriously jammed - even for the correct code - it won't be possible to open it via bypass. In situations like this the best option is to call a locksmith who will be able to open the jammed key safe box without causing damage to the contents or property and then replace it.
Choosing a Key safe box
There are varying degrees of security to key safes, especially the outdoor variety. Three and four wheel combination style key safes are the most common but also the easiest to break into. Push button key safes are a better option as they don’t have a simple bypass method and also allow you to choose a code from thousands of numerical options. Most outdoor Key safe boxes will be weatherproof – barring the cheapest models on the market of course.
It is vitally important that you purchase an outdoor key safe that can hold thousands of possible combinations. The more push buttons a key safe has the harder it will be for someone to guess the code.
Finally, always choose security items, which is especially important that they have a police approved Secured By Design logo on them.
Will installing a key safe box invalidate my home insurance?
A Key Safe box is a safe and secure method of leaving keys outside a property, for a wide range of reasons. Whether your Key box is for emergency purposes, to help a forgetful member of the family or to ensure the safety of an elderly
or vulnerable relative, secure key storage is the only safe alternative to leaving a key under a doormat, gnome or plant pot.
If a burglar was to gain access via a key under the doormat or under the pot an insurance company would be reluctant to help. But “what if I use a key safe box” we hear you ask. Well, that would depend on the type of key safe box you choose to install. If you go with the lower end lock safe boxes, in fact almost all the key safe boxes on the market, will most likely get you in trouble if the insurance companies find out.
There are a few products on the market that will keep you safe, your keys safe and your insurance company happy –
1. The Supra C500
2. Supra P500
3. Burton Keyguard Digital XL
They are weather resistant key safes - all perfect for use on the exterior of your property. They are certified and, as police approved key safes, offer the ultimate security for your external key storage. It’s perfect for homes where access is needed by family, carers and nurses or for a property where lots of people are often in and out at separate times.
The below statement is recognised by many leading underwriters of UK insurance -
“No claim for theft from a client’s home would be compromised or prejudiced”. including;
Direct Line
Green Flag
Churchill
AIG
Groupama Insurances
AVIVA and FORTIS in partnership with AGE UK.
If you are looking for a reliable Locksmith service to install the Key safe box correctly and safely, we are only a phone call away. We can usually have a Key safe box locksmith on site within 45 minutes to install a key safe box. This means no waiting and an immediate solution. We provide a one year warranty on all of our work and on all the products we supply, we also always advise installing police approved Key safes above all others.
If you live in Wimbledon’s SW19, you know the vibe - gorgeous tree-lined streets, the buzz of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, and the charm of the Village or Common just a short walk away. But between the stunning Victorian houses, sleek modern flats, and lively shops on the high street, there’s a catch: lockouts after a late night cheering at the All England Club or the odd break-in, in quieter spots can throw a wrench in your day. Even thing like moving homes or updating your home insurance can come with challenges. That’s when you need a local locksmith you can count on to sort things out fast. At SMS Locksmiths, we're proud to serve Wimbledon and the SW19 area (including Southfields, Merton Park, and Colliers Wood) with 24/7 emergency and planned services. Our DBS-checked, fully insured technicians arrive within 30 minutes, using non-destructive methods and transparent pricing - no hidden fees or call-out charges. Whether you're a homeowner securing your Edwardian semi-detached or a business owner in the Wimbledon Broadway retail hub, we're here to keep you safe. In this guide, we'll cover the top 5 locksmith services we provide to SW19 residents, tailored to local needs like upgrading heritage locks or handling post-match rush lockouts. Read on for practical tips, and remember: prevention is key to peace of mind. 1. Emergency Lock Opening: Back Inside in Minutes, No Damage to basic locks Nothing disrupts a Wimbledon evening stroll like realising you're locked out - keys forgotten after a coffee at Gail's or a tennis viewing party. Our lock opening service gets you back in fast using advanced pick-and-decode tools, bypassing tools and years of skill and experience, avoiding costly door damage. • Why Wimbledon residents love it: SW19's mix of old sash windows and modern uPVC doors means quick, non-destructive entry is essential. We handle everything from front doors to sheds and post boxes without a trace. • Real-life example: A local family in Southfields called us at 10 PM after misplacing keys during a dog walk on the Common. We arrived in 25 minutes, opened the lock in under 10, and advised on a spare key safe. • Pro tip: Always keep a copy of your keys with a family member or a person you trust, but call us immediately for lockouts - DIY attempts often lead to bigger bills. No matter the time, our 24/7 team ensures you're not stranded. Customer review: "SMS saved our night - professional and stress-free!" – Wimbledon Village resident (5 stars on Trustpilot). 2. Lock Changing: Fresh Security for New Starts in SW19 Moving into a charming Wimbledon flat or after losing keys? A lock change is your first line of defence against unknown access. We replace old locks with high-quality, British Standard (BS3621) compliant options that meet insurance requirements. • Tailored for Wimbledon: Many SW19 homes have outdated rim locks on period properties; we swap them for secure euro cylinders or deadbolts that fit seamlessly. • The process: On-site assessment (free quote), removal of old locks, installation (under 45 minutes), and a full test. Costs start from £110, with a 1-year warranty. • Local insight: With rising lettings in Merton Park, tenants often request changes post-move—we've helped dozens secure their new homes and flats without voiding deposits. Don't risk spare keys circulating; a quick change brings instant security. Book via our site for same-day service. 3. Lock Upgrades: Boost Protection Against Wimbledon Burglary Trends SW19 saw a spike in bike thefts and shed break-ins last year, per Merton Council reports. Our lock upgrades modernise your setup with anti-snap, anti-drill cylinders and multi-point systems, deterring thieves in high-traffic areas like Haydons Road. • SW19-specific benefits: Upgrade Victorian night latches to snap-resistant models or add 5 lever British standard deadlocks for Colliers Wood flats – we supply multiple brands for you to choose from on site. • Why upgrade now?: Standard locks fail 70% of tested break-ins; our BS-approved options slash that risk and keep premiums low. • Quick win: A Wimbledon Broadway shop owner upgraded their rear door after a near-miss; no incidents since, and they saved on insurance. We offer free security audits to spot weak points - perfect for families near the tennis grounds during tournament season. 4. New Lock Installations: Seamless Fits for Home or Business Renovating your Wimbledon townhouse or fitting out a new office near Plough Lane? Our lock installation service handles everything from single deadbolts to full master key systems for multi-unit properties. • Local expertise: We specialise in SW19's diverse builds -reinforced locks for ground-floor flats or heavy-duty ones for garage conversions in quiet Merton Park cul-de-sacs. • Step-by-step: Site visit for measurements, custom sourcing (e.g., thumb-turn cylinders for easy exit), professional fitting, and handover with keys and instructions. Most jobs completed in the first visit. • Business perk: For Wimbledon shops and cafes, we install mechanical digital access control for staff shifts, reducing downtime. Invest in lasting quality - our installations come with lifetime advice and no-fuss guarantees. 5. After-Burglary Services: Restore and Reinforce in SW19 A break-in is every homeowner's nightmare, and Wimbledon's green spaces can attract opportunists. Our after-burglary response includes immediate boarding-up, full lock replacements, and forensic-safe repairs to get you secure overnight. • Comprehensive support: We coordinate with police (providing reference numbers for claims), replace damaged frames, board up broken doors and windows to restore security providing you with peace of mind and giving you time to change doors. • Wimbledon focus: In areas like Southfields, where gardens back onto commons, we add perimeter advice like gravel paths for noise alerts. • From the frontlines: After a recent Merton burglary wave, we helped a family in SW19 board up, reinstall high-security locks, and claim via photos - back to normal in 24 hours. Act fast: Delaying repairs invites further risk. We're your second call after the police post-incident, with compassionate, efficient service. Why Choose SMS Locksmiths for Your Wimbledon SW19 Needs? As a family-run business with over a decade in South West London, we know SW19 inside out - from the rush of match days to the serenity of the Common. Our services aren't just fixes; they're tailored solutions with free quotes, 30-minute responses, and eco-friendly practices (we recycle old locks!). Plus, we're fully insured and DBS-vetted for your peace of mind. Ready to secure your Wimbledon home or business? Visit smslocksmith.co.uk to book online or request a free security check. For emergencies, we're just a click away - no postcode too far in SW19! Stay safe, Wimbledon - SMS Locksmiths has your back. #WimbledonLocksmith #SW19Security #EmergencyLocksmith #LockChangeWimbledon #MertonLocksmith ________________________________________ FAQs for SW19 Residents: Q: How quickly can you arrive in Wimbledon? A: Typically 20-30 minutes, 24/7 - no exceptions for rush hour on the A3! Q: Are your services insured for SW19 properties? A: Yes, all work is given a 1 year warranty and compliant with UK standards. Q: What's the cost for a basic lock change in Wimbledon? A: From £110, with no surprises - get a quote today. For more security tips, check our blog or follow us on social for Wimbledon updates!
Below is a more detailed breakdown of each service, which you can place under “Locksmith services we provide in Hounslow”: Lock Changes & Upgrades
 If you’ve just moved into a new home or want to increase your security, we can replace your locks with better, more secure models. Whether it’s euro cylinders, mortice locks, deadbolts or master key systems, we can recommend and install insurance-grade products. Lock Repair & Adjustment Locks wear out over time - maybe the key sticks or you force it to turn. We diagnose whether parts can be repaired (springs, levers, cylinders) or whether it requires replacement. We can also realign misaligned mechanisms so things work smoothly again. Emergency Lockout / Non-Destructive Entry Locked out at an inconvenient hour? We specialize in non-destructive entry, meaning we’ll open your door without breaking it. We carry a full set of specialised tools, from lock picks to tensioners, to gain entry safely and professionally. Burglary & Forced Entry Repair If your property has been broken into, we can repair or replace damaged locks, door frames, or hinges. We can also strengthen weak points and offer recommendations to prevent future incidents (e.g. reinforced strike plates, heavy-duty cylinders). Door & Frame Carpentry / Refurbishment Sometimes the door frame, jamb or door edge is also damaged or poorly aligned. We can carry out carpentry, reinforce the frame, repair door edges, or adjust the door fitting so your locks work properly. UPVC / Multi-Point Door & Window Mechanisms UPVC doors and windows often have multipoint locking systems that require delicate handling. We service, repair, or replace gearboxes, locking rods, handles, and cylinders. We can also realign or replace stuck mechanisms so your windows and doors seal properly. Commercial & Business Services For offices, shops, and commercial premises, we offer: Master key systems Restricted key zones Keyholding & emergency access Panic bars, exit devices, and high-security door furniture Mechanical Digital keypad / access control installations Lock re-keying when staff changeover occurs Area Coverage & Availability We cover the TW3 area and nearby zones in Hounslow, including Feltham, Heston, Cranford, and West Drayton. Wherever you are in Hounslow, we strive to reach you fast. We operate 24/7, every day. Even during weekends and bank holidays, we remain on call.
