How To Get Key Duplicated?

December 13, 2024 Author: Top Pick Locksmiths

Table of Content

1. Types of Keys That Can Be Duplicated
2. Why You Might Need a Key Duplicate
3. Steps to Get a Key Duplicated
4. Cost of Key Duplication: What to Expect
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Key Duplicated
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ

We’ve all been there, locked out of the house, and lost our keys. Having a duplicate key isn’t just convenient; it’s a smart way to avoid stress and unnecessary hassle. Whether it’s for your home, or office, duplicating keys is an easy and affordable solution that ensures you’re always prepared. A locksmith can help you with professional key duplication services, ensuring you have a reliable spare key when needed.

In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting duplicate keys, and why it’s important to have one spare key.

Types of Keys That Can Be Duplicated

1. Standard Residential Keys:

Common for homes and offices.
Easily duplicated using basic machines by a residential locksmith.

2. High-Security Keys:

Designed for extra protection.
Require special tools or authorisation to duplicate.

3. Restricted Keys:

Patented and designed for limited duplication.
May require manufacturer approval.

4. Furniture Keys:

Used for desks, cabinets, and similar items.
Simple to duplicate with proper machines.

Why You Might Need a Key Duplicate

There are several reasons why you need duplicate keys. Most people get a duplicate key to ensure that they have a backup in case of emergencies.

In some cases, you may need multiple duplicate keys for multiple people like family members, or roommates. For businesses, employees might also need a duplicate key to have access to workspaces.

Steps to Get a Key Duplicated

Getting a key duplicated is generally a straightforward process, you can get it done through locksmith services. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide

Step 1: Locate a key Duplication Service

The first step is to find a trusted key duplication service. Top pick locksmiths can offer you key duplication services online. They can make spare keys for you whether it’s for your home apartment, office.

Step 2: Bring the original Key

To get the accurate duplicate keys, first, you need to bring the original key to the service provider. The original keys act as a template, ensuring that the duplicate keys fit perfectly.

Step 3: Choose the Type of Key

Depending on what type of key you use or need, a locksmith can prepare a type of spare key according to your requirements. For standard home or office locks, a basic duplicate is usually sufficient. However, for more specialized locks, the process may be bit complex.

Step 4: Wait for the key to be duplicated

In most cases, the key duplication process is quick and easy. For regular keys, it might only only take few minutes to make a duplicate. If your key involves more complicated features, the process may take longer.

Step 5: Test the Duplicate Key
Once you receive your duplicated key, make sure to test it immediately. Check that it fits properly into the lock and turns smoothly without any difficulty. It’s important to test the key before leaving the service provider to avoid any inconvenience later.

Cost of Key Duplication: What to Expect

The cost of duplicating a key can vary based on several factors, including the type of key, the location, and the level of security needed. For basic home or office keys, expect to pay between $2 and $5 AUD per duplicate.

However, if you’re duplicating a more specialized key, such as a high-security key with a transponder chip, the cost can be significantly higher. High-security keys may cost anywhere from $10 to $50 AUD or more, depending on the complexity.

Helpful Resource: How Much Does it Cost to Rekey a Lock in Melbourne

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Key Duplicated

Not testing the duplicate key immediately.
Choosing low-quality service providers.
Forgetting to make multiple copies if needed.
Assuming all keys are the same; check compatibility.

Mistakes to Avoid Getting a Key Duplicated

Conclusion

Getting a duplicate key is a simple yet effective way to stay prepared for the unexpected. It’s an easy way to ensure you’re never caught off guard if you lose or misplace your key. A spare can be a lifesaver, whether for a special lock or an everyday item. Just make sure it’s made correctly and stored safely, so you can enjoy the convenience without worry

Make sure to choose a reliable service for duplication and store your spare key safely. This simple backup can bring peace of mind, ensuring you’re never locked out or caught unprepared.