Are you paying too much to get keys cut? A spare key or two can prove invaluable if you get locked out of your home, but that doesn’t mean you should break the bank.
The cost of getting a typical house key cost starts between £5.25 and £7 depending on the style of key. The price of duplicating a security key starts from £20 each.
 Â
How much does it cost to get keys cut?
These prices are based on research from Locksmiths.co.uk and will vary by area.
Cylinder house key
Typical cost: From £5.25
Time to cut key: Under 5 minutes
Mortice house key
 Typical cost: From £7
Time to cut key: Under 5 minutesÂ
Patio door key
 Typical cost: From £5.50
Time to cut key: Under 5 minutes
Security Key
 Typical Cost: From £20
Time to cut key: 5-15 minutes
Standard Safe Key
 Typical Cost: From £22
Time to cut key: 5-15 minutes
Window key
 Typical cost: From £4.50
Time to cut key: Under 5 minutes
Â
Where can I buy new keys?
You can choose to get new keys cut at any shop that offers the service, but there are a few things to look out for. One is MLA approval for a locksmith or shop. The MLA – Master Locksmith Association – approves locksmiths that meet their standards for professional service and standards. Displaying MLA approval also means the organisation has run a criminal background check on whoever is handling your locks.
You can also look for a shop that offers a guarantee on any keys they cut. Key cutting chain Timpson guarantees every key they produce, and will make a free replacement for any that have problems.
Â
Do I need permission to get new keys cut?Â
There is no law restricting the number of copies you can make of your home key. If you own your property, you’re free to make as many copies as you like.
For those who rent their home, you can check if there is any stipulation in your tenancy agreement about key cutting. If you have an electronic fob that you use to open communal doors you’ll often need to request another of these from your letting agent or landlord directly.
Otherwise, your landlord should not unreasonably restrict you from making copies of keys. As a tenant, you have a right to the ‘quiet enjoyment’ of your property, which includes the ability of everyone in the home to move freely.
Your tenancy agreement will probably have a section stating if you have the right to change the locks, and who will pay if you do so. Usually, if you want to have the locks changed you will be required to pay the associated costs.
Read more of our moving and new home guides: