Home burglaries still occur every 26 seconds on average (according to 2024 FBI data). Thus, hiding a spare key the traditional way has become one of the first tactics thieves check. Professional locksmiths and law enforcement agree that common hiding spots like “under the mat” or within fake rocks are responsible for thousands of preventable […]
Home burglaries still occur every 26 seconds on average (according to 2024 FBI data). Thus, hiding a spare key the traditional way has become one of the first tactics thieves check. Professional locksmiths and law enforcement agree that common hiding spots like “under the mat” or within fake rocks are responsible for thousands of preventable break-ins each year. Fortunately, there are now innovative, straightforward, and high-tech alternatives that make spare-key access safer and more convenient. Here’s the updated guide that genuinely works.
What Actually Works in Securing Your Home
Locksmiths and home-security experts have tested these methods and consistently outperform traditional hiding spots, and they are
- Lockbox with changeable codes: Heavy-duty realtor-style boxes (like Master Lock 5400D or Kidde AccessPoint) can be mounted beside the door or garage. 2025 models allow you to create one-time or time-limited codes via an app, which makes it ideal for dog walkers, house cleaners, or Airbnb guests.
- Keypad, deadbolts, or smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys. You can send temporary codes from your phone, no matter where you are; 87% of users report no longer needing a physical spare key.
- Hidden magnetic boxes on vehicle frames: If you must hide a house key, attach a weatherproof magnetic box deep inside the wheel well or chassis of a car parked in your locked garage; thieves rarely look there.
- Trusted neighbor exchange: The oldest method remains one of the best. Give a key to someone you know and trust; neighborhood apps like Nextdoor make verifying identities easier than ever.
What You Should Never Do
These classic hiding spots are checked by burglars in under 90 seconds, according to interviews with former burglars compiled by police departments across the country. Here are some things you should never do:
Never hide keys:
- Under doormats, in mailboxes, or above door frames, these are the first three places 68% of burglars check.
- Inside fake rocks, garden gnomes, or hollowed-out lawn decorations, experts know every brand and spot them immediately.
- Under flowerpots, grill covers, or in the electric meter box, this is standard scouting in under two minutes.
- In an unlocked car or shed on your property, once they’re in the car, they can easily enter the house.
24/7 Locksmith Services in Beverly, MA
Secure Lock & Alarm is proud to provide 24/7 emergency locksmith services to the surrounding Beverly, MA, cities and towns! Whether you are locked out of your home or business or have lost your keys, you can always count on our team, no matter the time of day! Don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact us today by calling 978-927-6400 or by filling out our contact form.
