The most common scenarios are:
A key went missing for a period. You lost your keys temporarily, found them later, but can't be sure if someone copied them during that time. This is the vaguest situation, because there's no evidence — only the possibility. Statistically, most lost keys are returned or discarded. Copying requires intent and proximity to a key-copying service.
You left keys with someone you no longer trust. A tradesperson, a letting agent, a former partner, a family member. Weeks or months have passed. You're now worried they kept a copy.
Your property is let out through an agency. Multiple cleaners, maintenance people, and guests have accessed the property. You have no way of knowing if any of them copied your keys.
Someone moved out and you're not sure they returned all keys. A flatmate, a tenant, or a family member who stayed temporarily.
You've had a break-in and suspect the burglar used copied keys rather than forcing entry. In this case, the police should be involved, and your insurance claim depends on it. A locksmith can help you assess whether the lock shows signs of forcing.
Until you decide whether to change the locks, you can reduce risk with low-cost temporary measures.
Use a portable door lock or wedge on the inside. A rubber wedge or a portable security lock (available at any hardware shop for €5–15) will stop someone using a key to open the door from outside. These are not burglar-proof, but they prevent casual entry and give you peace of mind overnight.
Install a door chain or safety bar on the inside. Again, not a permanent solution, but it buys you time and signals that the door is actively monitored.
Check all other entrances. If someone has copied your main door key, do you know whether they've also copied keys to the garage, the garden gate, or a back door? Check them now. You may only need to change one lock, not all of them.
Keep valuables elsewhere for now. If you genuinely suspect unauthorised entry, move portable valuables — jewellery, electronics, documents — to a safer location: a bank safe, a trusted friend's home, or a storage unit. Don't leave expensive items on display while you investigate.
This is straightforward: do not attempt to rekey or pick a lock yourself unless you are trained. Locksmiths have specialised tools and expertise. If you try and break something, you'll pay more to repair it.
Do call an emergency locksmith immediately if:
- You've confirmed that someone has actually entered your home without permission.
- Your lock shows clear signs of forced entry (crowbar marks, broken pins, damaged cylinder).
- You feel unsafe living in the property while this is uncertain.
- Your insurance requires you to change locks as a condition of cover.
Do call a standard (non-emergency) locksmith if:
- You've assessed the situation and decided you want the lock changed, but there's no urgent security breach.
- You want a professional assessment of whether your lock is worth rekeying or needs full replacement.
- You need to change multiple locks across the property and want the most cost-effective approach.
Do inform the police if:
- You have evidence that someone entered your home without permission.
- Items are actually missing.
- You've had a break-in.
A police incident number is essential for insurance purposes and creates a record. Your locksmith may also ask for it when you request a job.
When you call a locksmith, describe your situation clearly. Don't just say "I want to change my locks." Say: "I suspect someone has a copy of my key to the front door. There's no evidence of forced entry, but I want the cylinder changed."
A qualified locksmith will:
Inspect the existing lock. They'll examine the cylinder (bombín) and the lock body to determine if replacement or rekeying is more cost-effective. If the lock is standard and undamaged, they'll usually recommend replacing just the cylinder — typically €50–150 — rather than the whole lock (€150–400+).
Ask about your lock type. Spanish homes often have European-profile cylinder locks (cilindro europeo), which are fast to replace and widely available. Some older properties or gated communities have proprietary systems. If your lock is unusual, the locksmith may order a specific part, which takes a day or two.
Supply you with new keys. They'll cut new keys and hand you a certain number — usually 2–3 originals. Check that you can operate the lock smoothly with the new key before they leave.
Provide documentation. A receipt, an invoice, and ideally a brief note of the lock model and key code. Keep this for insurance purposes and in case you need a spare key cut later by another locksmith.
Answer questions about rekeying. If you want the old lock body kept but the mechanism changed so the old key no longer works, some locksmiths offer rekeying services. This is usually cheaper than replacement but requires more time and specialised knowledge. Ask whether it's available for your lock type.
The whole job typically takes 15–30 minutes if it's a straightforward cylinder change. If the lock needs replacement, it may take longer.
Be deliberate about who has keys. If you use a cleaner, a gardener, or a maintenance person, consider whether they need a physical key or whether a keypad code, a smart lock, or a timed access system would work better. On the Mediterranean coast, many holiday homes now use smart locks or numbered entry systems instead of physical keys.
Keep a record of who has what. If someone does have a key, document it. "Maria, the cleaner, has a copy; she returns it on Friday." When they no longer need access, change the lock.
Use a key cabinet or safe. If you have multiple spare keys, keep them in a locked cabinet, not scattered around the house or left with various people.
For rental properties or holiday lets, change the locks between tenants. Even if you've asked for keys back, assume there may be copies. A new lock for each new guest or tenant is standard practice and inexpensive insurance.
Consider a smart lock or keypad system. If you own a holiday home or rent it out regularly, a smart lock eliminates the risk of physical key copying. You can issue temporary access codes, monitor who entered and when, and change codes instantly. Costs range from €100–400 for installation, but many owners find it worth it for security and flexibility.
If you suspect someone has copied your keys, start by gathering evidence: check for signs of entry, review your insurance, and make a list of who's had access. In most cases, you only need to change the cylinder, not the entire lock, which keeps costs down. If you genuinely fear for your security or have found evidence of break-in, call a local locksmith the same day. They'll assess your situation, advise you on the most cost-effective solution, and usually complete the job within an hour. Don't sit with the worry — a small lock change now is cheaper than dealing with a break-in later.
