Should I Have an Outdoor Key Safe?

First and foremost, if you are thinking of purchasing an outdoor key safe, or if you already have one, do not put it on show. Install it somewhere out of sight so it is not visible to passers by. Although it may be impossible to crack do not encourage burglars by having it on show. It is best to install an outdoor key safe somewhere that is not immediately visible. Find a spot that is not directly by your door and is not at eye level. The better it is hidden the more likely no one will ever know it’s there.

Why Have a Key Safe?

Outdoor key safes have many plus points. Firstly, make sure it is professionally installed, consult a local tradesman before you decide to put one up.

However, like with anything to do with security in and around the home key safes can also be vulnerable. The fact that your house or car keys are locked in one place means it can be extremely devastating if someone manages to break in to it.

Indoor key safes are a good option if you have a family and are misplacing keys a lot. An indoor key safe or key cabinet are also good for businesses and schools that require multiple people using different keys at various times.

An outdoor key safe is best used for leaving spare keys outside for people to easily gain access to your property. You may have a loved who lives alone and may find it difficult to answer the door. An outdoor key safe is ideal so family members and health professionals can access the property without disturbing the occupant.

An outdoor key safe can offer real convenience — especially for households with frequent guests, care-workers, or holiday rentals — but it’s important to balance convenience with security. According to the expert guide from Confused.com, key safes ‘can be safe, but like most things, it depends on how and where you use them’. They recommend choosing a key safe with recognised security accreditation (such as LPS 1175 or police-preferred status), mounting it in a discreet location away from plain view, and regularly changing access codes. Including this in your planning ensures that your spare-key solution doesn’t undermine your home-security or insurance position.

What Type of Key Safe Should I Have?

There are varying degrees to key safes, especially the outdoor variety. Three and Four wheel combination style key safes are the most common. Push button key safes are also a good option as they allow you to choose a code from thousands of numerical options. More recently, weatherproof and digital Bluetooth enabled key safes have emerged offering users more control and flexibility via smart phones and mobile apps.

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 it will be for someone to guess the code. Also, choose a code that is longer than 4 or 5 digits. The longer the code the harder it is to guess.

Finally, always choose security items that have a police approved Secured By Design logo on them.

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Tags: Combination keysafe, Home security, Key safe, Outdoor key safe

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FAQ

Where is the best place to put a key safe outside?

The best place to install a key safe is in a discreet but practical location near the entrance. Avoid fixing it directly beside the front door or in highly visible positions. Mount it securely onto a solid masonry wall at a comfortable height for authorised users. A less obvious position reduces unwanted attention while still allowing convenient access when needed.

Are key safes secure?

A high-quality key safe can be secure when installed correctly and used responsibly. Look for solid metal construction, a robust locking mechanism and secure wall fixings. Changing the access code regularly improves security. Like any external security product, it should form part of a wider home protection strategy rather than being relied upon alone.

How safe is a key safe for home use?

A key safe offers controlled access for trusted individuals such as family members, carers or emergency services. When positioned discreetly and properly fitted, it can be a practical solution. However, it is important to consider overall property security. Our guide on the most common entry points used in UK burglaries explains why managing access points carefully is essential.

What is a weatherproof key safe?

A weatherproof key safe is designed to withstand outdoor conditions such as rain, frost and temperature changes. It typically features corrosion-resistant materials and a protective cover to shield the locking mechanism. Choosing a weather-resistant model helps ensure long-term durability and reliable operation.

What is an outdoor key safe?

An outdoor key safe is a lockable box installed externally to store spare keys securely. It allows authorised access without hiding keys in insecure locations. Outdoor key safes are commonly used for emergency access, property management and supporting vulnerable family members who may need assistance.