Lost your house keys: what to do

Lost or stolen house keys: how to get back in, whether to change the locks, and what your insurance may cover.

By LockedPrice · Updated 1 October 2026

Getting back in

Check who else has a key: a partner, family, a neighbour, or your landlord or letting agent if you rent. If nobody does, a locksmith can usually open a standard door without damage.

Do you need to change the locks?

If the keys were with anything showing your address, such as post, ID or a car key fob linked to your address, change the locks or at least the cylinders. Anyone who finds them could get in.

If they were lost somewhere with nothing to link them to you, the risk is lower, but many people still change the cylinder for peace of mind. On uPVC and composite doors that's a quick job.

Check your insurance

Many home insurance policies include cover for replacing locks after lost or stolen keys, sometimes as an add-on. Check your policy before paying, and keep the receipt.

If you rent

Tell your landlord or letting agent. Your tenancy agreement may say who pays and whether you need permission to change the locks, and they'll need a key to any new lock.

Questions

Should I change my locks if I lose my keys?

Yes if the keys could be linked to your address. Otherwise it's a judgement call, and changing the cylinder is a quick, low-cost job on most modern doors.

Does home insurance cover lost keys?

Many policies do, sometimes as an optional extra. Check your policy wording.

Can a locksmith get me in without my keys?

Yes. A good locksmith will ask for proof you live there and can open most standard doors without damage.