Did You Damage or Lose a Key? Here is What You Can Do About it

Keys are certainly a treasured possession. Whether they enable access to your business premises, unlock your homes, or open your cars, you would just be lost without them. Most individuals have spare keys at home as a precaution in case the current ones are lost, they can simply use the spare ones. However, if you don’t have spare keys and somehow your only key is damaged or lost, then you will need to hire the help of a locksmith. Depending on the type of key, certain things need to be kept in mind when you are about to get the replacement.

Here is what you can do when you damage or lose your key:

1. Household Key Replacement

Getting your household key replaced is relatively easier than having your car key replaced. You will simply need to call a locksmith in your area and have the replacement done. Furthermore, you can also change the door lock entirely. Although changing the lock might be costly but most people do it to ensure safety when they lose their household key.

2. Car Replacement Key

If it is your car key that is damaged or lost, then it might be relatively more troublesome and expensive to replace as compared to replacing a household key. You will need to bring your car registration, vehicle identification number, as well as your driver’s license to your auto dealer in order to have the replacement key done. This is a safety measure to make sure that the vehicle is not stolen and the person who is requesting a key replacement is the real owner.

Automotive locksmiths are also licensed to make replacement keys, particularly for those car owners whose cars have chips as they have the required codes to help program the car and the key. Getting your car key replaced from a locksmith is relatively cheaper as compared to ordering one from an auto dealer. Some vehicles have electronic fobs and as they are costlier than regular car keys, you will have to contact the manufacturer of the car to get the replacement.

3. Company Keys

Many locksmiths will not duplicate or copy keys that are marked with “Do Not Duplicate” on it. However, you can request for another set to be duplicated. You might also need to get authorization from the company for replacement if you have lost or damaged the company keys. Nevertheless, some locksmiths don’t duplicate keys that are marked with the sign particularly if the request looks suspicious.

Final Word

Getting a key damaged or losing it can be a big hassle. Fortunately, with the help of an experienced locksmith, you can get it replaced quite conveniently. Many locksmiths offer emergency services that are very helpful especially if your key is damaged and you are locked out of your home or car. Some key replacement options are more expensive than others, but can be really helpful in emergency situations.

Dib’s Safe & Lock Service in San Bernardino is a locally-owned, family run business with over 90 years experience proudly offering lock, safe, and key, services to residential and business customers in San Bernardino County, Riverside, and the surrounding areas in Inland Empire. If you have questions changing door locks, or lock and key service of any type, give Dib’s a call today at (909) 885-0452.