What is a spare key? The terms spare key and duplicate key explained simply
28. April 2023
A so-called replacement key or duplicate key is the exact copy of your main key. A replacement key can be made for all possible types of keys – from apartment or house keys to room door keys, mailbox keys, car keys, or even safe keys.
It makes sense to own a duplicate key that you can easily access if the main key breaks or gets lost. Even when several people use the same key, it is useful to have a duplicate or even a triplicate key made so that everyone has their own key.
How and by Whom Are Replacement Keys Made?
You can have your replacement key made by a locksmith service, and of course also by us, Amper Aufsperrdienst. We require permission from your landlord if you live in a rented property and want to duplicate a key for your apartment, for example the apartment or a room key, or the key to the house entrance if it is a multi-family building. This special written permission is also called a security certificate. Of course, you are allowed to have as many replacement keys made as you like if you are the owner of the property in question.
Duplicating a key has become more complicated in recent years. In the past, it was usually enough to bring the main key. It served as a template, and a matching duplicate key was made by filing. But modern keys belonging to locking systems are more complex, and duplicating them is nowhere near as easy as it used to be. Bringing the key as a template is only possible for simple standard keys.
For security keys or keys belonging to a locking system, you need a key blank to duplicate them and, in some cases, a specific code number that contains all the necessary information the locksmith service needs to produce the replacement key. This is because they have very special security features that cannot simply be filed into place. You can obtain the key blank and the number code from your landlord.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Duplicate Key Made?
Making a standard key is quite inexpensive. It rarely costs more than 20 euros, and often even less than 10 euros. With complex security or locking system keys, it looks quite different; this usually costs 30 euros upwards – in rare cases, it can even cost up to 1,000 euros, but such prices are rather found with very well-secured company locks or when an entire locking system has to be replaced due to the loss of a key.
Can You Duplicate a Key That You Have Lost?
If you have lost your key but do not possess a replacement key, you will want to have your lost key replaced. This is possible, but a little complicated. The locksmith service making your replacement key needs the serial number of the lock cylinder for this. With this information, they can find out from the manufacturer how to make your replacement key.
Amper Aufsperrdienst Creates Duplicate Keys for You at a Fair Fixed Price
We, Amper Aufsperrdienst, are happy to create a replacement or duplicate key for you. Simply call us and tell us what kind of key it is. Then we can give you a firmly binding price right away.
As a reliable professional locksmith service with decades of experience, we are your contact partner for all services relating to keys, locks, and doors.
In addition to making replacement keys, we create burglary protection concepts and implement them by installing high-quality security technology in houses, apartments, or businesses. Of course, we also open doors that have slammed shut or are locked if you have lost your key, forgotten it at home, or if it broke off in the lock. We are happy to replace dilapidated locks and modernize your locking systems. Furthermore, we handle repair work if the terrible thing happens and you have actually experienced a break-in.
A Reliable 24/7 Locksmith Service for All Cases
Do you need a duplicate key for your apartment or your house? Feel free to call us, we will gladly make one for you. Whether a simple standard key or a complicated key with security features – duplication is no problem for us, and our competent locksmiths always know what to do.
In urgent cases, we are even available for you around the clock and ready to drive out – for example, if your key broke off in the lock just as you wanted to unlock it to enter your apartment. Then you do not only need a replacement key, but the lock must also be replaced or repaired, and of course, the door must be opened so you can get back home. We complete all this work quickly, right after our arrival, which usually takes place about 30 minutes after your call.
If you have locked yourself out and need someone to open the door for you and potentially even make a replacement key – call Amper Aufsperrdienst! We are the locksmith service you can trust, there for you 24/7, always at fair fixed prices. As soon as we receive your call, we drive out immediately in urgent cases. If you would prefer an appointment because making your duplicate key can wait a few days, we are also happy to arrange an appointment with you!