Why People Hide Keys in the Worst Places — and What to Do Instead

You think you’re being clever.
But the burglar you didn’t expect is even smarter.

Every week in Tampa, we get calls from people who were robbed, locked out, or even evicted because they left a key in the wrong place.

So today, we’re exposing the worst places to hide your keys, why people still do it, and what you should do instead to protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

Top 5 Worst Places to Hide Your Spare Key

1. Under the Doormat

Why it’s bad: Everyone—even 10-year-olds—know to check here first.
What happens: You’re basically leaving your front door open for anyone with 3 seconds of curiosity.

2. In a Fake Rock

Why it’s bad: Burglars recognize these instantly. They're usually plastic, oversized, and sitting awkwardly by the walkway.
What happens: It makes their job easy, and your insurance company might deny claims due to “negligent access.”

3. Inside the Mailbox

Why it’s bad: Federal law prohibits tampering with mailboxes. Plus, mailboxes are unsecured and often in plain view.
What happens: A passerby can grab your key while pretending to check their mail.

4. Under a Flowerpot or Planter

Why it’s bad: Too obvious. Most burglars check all the “earthy” hiding spots around your front door.
What happens: Plants don’t protect you—security habits do.

5. Inside an Outdoor Grill or Hose Reel

Why it’s bad: You might think, “Nobody will look here.” But we’ve seen burglars check everything—even trash cans and toys.
What happens: They don’t need a lockpick set if you’ve already left the front door key in the backyard.

Why People Still Do It

People hide keys in bad spots because:

• They’re afraid of locking themselves out

• They want housekeepers, dog walkers, or guests to have easy access

• They haven’t upgraded to smart locks or secure systems

• They don’t trust digital systems (but ironically trust a $2 plastic rock)

But in 2025, burglars are trained in pattern recognition. If you’re using a predictable method, you’re taking a serious risk.

What to Do Instead (Smart, Safe Alternatives)

1. Use a Smart Lock With Guest Codes

Skip the key altogether. Let your cleaner or guest in with a temporary code.
Bonus: You’ll even get an alert when they come and go.

2. Install a Lockbox (With Code)

If you must have a physical key accessible, use a realtor-grade lockbox secured to a gate, fence, or post.
They’re hard to tamper with, and you control the access code.

3. Leave a Key With Someone You Trust

Neighbor, friend, or nearby family member.
Still better than a flowerpot.

4. Get a Professional Key Safe

These mountable safes are built for security—not convenience alone.
They’re used by Airbnb hosts, senior caretakers, and homeowners with high-value assets.

5. Rekey Your Locks If You’ve Ever Hidden a Key Outside

Seriously. If a key was ever “out there,” rekey it.
You can’t know if someone found it—and copied it—without you ever knowing.

BONUS: Hidden Key Scenarios That Got People in Trouble

Locked Out, Key Stolen
A Tampa client hid a key under a welcome mat. A delivery driver noticed. Days later, the house was robbed.

Evicted by Their Own Spare Key
An ex with an old key returned months later and locked a woman out of her own apartment. She hadn’t rekeyed.

Rental Ransacked
An Airbnb host hid a key under the deck. A previous guest came back, entered, and stole electronics. The insurance denied coverage.

Final Advice From a Tampa Locksmith

Stop relying on hiding spots.
Start relying on systems.

If you haven’t upgraded your locks in the last 5 years, you’re behind on security. And if you’ve ever hidden a key outdoors—your risk just doubled.

We’re here to help:

- Rekey old locks
- Install smart locks or coded keypads
- Mount lockboxes securely
- Advise you on safe key protocols

Need Help Now? Call 813-534-2911

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Homes, rentals, apartments, and Airbnb units

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FAQ – Key Hiding & Security in 2025

Q: Is it illegal to hide a key under a mat or flowerpot?
A: Not illegal—but it could void insurance coverage after a break-in due to “gross negligence.”

Q: What’s the safest way to allow guests access?
A: Smart lock with a guest code that expires—or a mounted lockbox with a rotating code.

Q: What if I lose all my keys and don’t have a backup?
A: Call us immediately. We offer emergency entry + on-site rekeying or replacement.