How do key safes work?

The key is a traditional form of security that has worked for many centuries and remains a reliable means of securing a property. In recent years it has been superseded by more modern access methods, such as codes and PIN numbers and biometric features that are scanned. However, many people still prefer the physical element of using a key, despite the limitations of this physical element. These include the fact that people can lose or forget a key, or it can be stolen or copied. There are also other circumstances where the physical requirement to have the key on your person is a hindrance, for example if someone else needs it and they are not with you.

All these circumstances can be managed by installing a key safe, and here we will explain what a key safe is, how they work and what benefits they will bring.

What is a key safe?

A key safe is a small, metal container that is secured outside a property and is used for storing a key that is then used to access the property. The key safe will usually have a keypad on the front, or a rotary dial, on which the user will input a unique four-digit code. If this code is correct, a hinged door will open and you will be able to access the key inside. The key can be a spare key or the main key, if there is only one in existence. The key safe is strong and robust, and is weatherproof to withstand being located externally.

What are key safes used for?

The main purpose of a key safe is to ensure that there is always a key available to access the property, but that the key is only available to people who are authorised to have it. So the property owner needs to manage the situation so that only the right people have knowledge of the code, although if it is suspected that a security breach has occurred, the code can be changed immediately and redistributed accordingly.

Installing a key safe essentially removes the limitations of the physical key. It means that even if someone forgets their key, loses their key, has it stolen or never had a key in the first place, (ie. they left home without a key and in the meantime, whoever was in the house has had to go out and lock the door) there will always be a key available to use. It also means that, late at night, a person can go to bed and know that a son or daughter or other family member can still access the home. In a commercial property, many of these same scenarios apply, although access is most likely required out of hours or over a weekend.

The benefits of using a key safe

• Authorisation – The user can control who has knowledge of the code for the key safe to ensure nobody can access the key who shouldn’t. The code can also be changed to a new code if it is felt that the original code is known by someone without this authorisation.
• Flexibility – The key safe removes the ‘unknown’ element of wondering whether someone has a key when they left the property.
• Security – The key safe is strong and robust and can be located in a discreet position where it is not visible.
• Other uses – There are several alternative uses for a key safe other than when managing a family home or a small commercial business. A key safe can be used for a holiday home or an Airbnb that is managed remotely, and so you don’t have to physically visit the property to handover keys to guests. It is also useful when visitors are staying for the weekend, but they arrive while you are out at work. Family can use a key safe to look after a property while you are on holiday, and also contractors can use the key safe if you are having work done at home while you are out of the house, as long as you have authorised this. Finally, a key safe is commonly used by medical staff in an emergency situation, but also when visiting elderly patients or patients with limited mobility. This prevents the patient having to answer the door each time they visit.

Strong and robust key safes from MB Direct

At MB Direct we have a large range of key safes suitable for storing keys externally to a property. We can supply models which have a rotary dial to input the code, or which have a keypad. We also have digital key safes which work the same way but need to be battery operated. Whatever your needs, we can supply a key safe that is practical and secure and enables you to store a key outside and not worry about who has a key and when. So check out our range of key safes and order yours online today.