Where to keep a spare key in Amsterdam (and where not to)
A spare key is a second key to your home kept outside the house, with a trusted person or in a locked key safe, so that losing or forgetting your key does not mean a lockout; hiding it near the door is not a safe place because burglars check those spots first.
Every lockout we attend in Amsterdam starts with the same sentence: I should have had a spare key somewhere. Most people do have one. It is in a drawer inside the flat, which is no use at all, or under the mat, which is worse.
Where not to keep it
- Under the doormat, in a flowerpot, on top of the door frame or behind the drainpipe. These are the first four places anyone looks.
- In a magnetic box under the bike. Bikes get stolen in Amsterdam; the box goes with it.
- Inside the letterbox or hanging on a string behind the slot, where a hook reaches it.
- In your bag with your address on it. Lose the bag and someone has both the key and the door.
Places that work
The best spare key is with a person: a neighbour you trust, a friend nearby or a family member who is home when you are not. Agree that they never hand it to someone else without calling you. For expats without family in the city, a neighbour across the landing is often the practical choice.
The second option is a key safe: a small steel box with a code, fixed to the wall out of sight. It is the standard answer for short stay rentals and for anyone who often has a cleaner or a dog walker. Our blog on key safes for short stay rentals explains what to look for. Choose a model that is bolted to brick and change the code when someone leaves.
A few rules for every spare key
- Never attach a label with your address or your name.
- Know how many copies exist and who has them. Write it down.
- If a copy is lost, treat it as a lost key: replace the cylinder.
- Test the spare once a year. A copy of a copy sometimes does not turn.
No spare and locked out anyway?
Then a locksmith opens the door, without damage on almost every door, and cuts extra keys the same visit. Our locksmith FAQ answers the questions people ask on the pavement.
What we do
Locksmith Amsterdam opens doors, cuts extra keys and fits key safes. Tell us on the phone what you need and you hear the price before we start.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I keep a spare key in Amsterdam?
With a trusted neighbour, friend or family member, or in a key safe bolted to the wall out of sight. Never near the door.
Is a key safe secure?
A good one, bolted to brick and hidden from the street, is far safer than any hiding place. Change the code when someone no longer needs access.
Can I hide a key under the mat for a day?
Better not. It is the first place anyone checks. Give it to a neighbour instead.
What if my spare key is lost?
Treat it as a lost key. If it can be linked to your address, replace the cylinder.
What if I have no spare and I am locked out?
Call +31 (0)20 210 1986. We open the door without damage, within 30 minutes anywhere in Amsterdam, and cut extra keys on the spot.
Locked out, or want a key safe fitted? Call Locksmith Amsterdam on +31 (0)20 210 1986. We open the door, cut extra keys and fit key safes, with the price confirmed before we start.
