Key Safes

How to Choose the Right Key Safe

Choosing the right key safe depends on how and where it will be used. The most important factors to consider include security level, installation location and who will need access.

Key safes come in varying degrees of security and also different levels of capacity. There are also key cabinets for bunches of keys designed for storing car keys in a commercial environment which have large sized hooks for larger sized fobs and these tend to be of a higher security.

Key safes and key cabinets can be used in many different sectors such as estate agents, hospitals, government organisations and the automotive industry.

Key Safe vs Key Cabinet

A key safe will only hold a few keys inside as it has limited capacity, whilst a key cabinet is bigger in the amount of keys it can store with volumes ranging from 10 to over 1000 keys

Locking Type

At SimplySafes we have all different locking mechanisms available to suit your requirements such as electronic, key or a combination lock.

• Electronic – Ideal for a business that requires multiple user access on a regular basis.

  Digital key safes offer faster access and multiple code combinations, making them popular for high‑traffic environments.

• Key – The key locking option is a simple locking mechanism and is perfect for smaller business or home to store keys.
• Combination – A combination lock is very similar to an electronic lock and just requires a combination code for access to the key safe.

  Mechanical combination key safes are reliable, require no batteries and are ideal for outdoor use.

Security and Approval

For higher‑risk situations, such as carer access or emergency entry, look for police‑approved key safes. These models are tested against attack methods and recommended for use by local authorities and social care providers.

Key Safes for Different Uses

• Carers & Emergency Access

Key safes are commonly used to allow carers, health visitors and emergency services to enter a property safely without leaving doors unlocked. Police‑approved key safes are often recommended for vulnerable or elderly occupants.

• Airbnb & Holiday Lets

For short‑term rentals, key safes provide a secure way to give guests access without meeting in person. Combination codes can be changed between bookings, ensuring continued control over access.

• Landlords & Property Managers

Landlords and letting agents use key safes to manage access for contractors, inspections and tenants while maintaining building security.

• Businesses

Businesses use key safes to control staff access to buildings, plant rooms and restricted areas, particularly outside normal opening hours.

Police‑Approved Key Safes Explained

Police‑approved key safes are independently tested to recognised security standards. These models are designed to withstand targeted attack and are recommended for situations where property access must not compromise overall security.

Common benefits include:

• Tested attack resistance
• Solid steel or hardened alloy construction
• Secure, tamper‑resistant locking mechanisms
• Suitable for use by carers, councils and emergency services

Installation Location

Outdoor key safes should be weather‑resistant and fitted discreetly to solid masonry.

Indoor key safes can be used where environmental exposure is not a concern and visual discretion is easier to maintain.

Installation & Best Practice

For maximum security:

• Install key safes on solid brick or concrete rather than timber or cladding
• Position the unit discreetly and away from direct public view
• Avoid obvious locations such as directly beside doors
• Follow manufacturer installation instructions carefully

Professional installation may be advisable for high‑security key safes.

Outdoor Key Safes / Key Safe Boxes

The purchase of a key safe box is becoming ever more popular with the increase in short term holiday lettings in the UK and the change in carers making daily visits to the elderly community.

Having an external key safe fitted to the outside of a home is essential when carers or holiday makers require access to the property upon arrival. Each key safe will have a combination lock which provides entry to the keys when required.

At SimplySafes we have a selection of outdoor key safes to choose from including one which has been approved by the Police and has been designed to their preferred specification. Before purchase please double check on the internal dimensions of the keysafe box as each will differ and have a limited capacity for the storage of keys.

What to Keep in Mind - Capacity

Before placing an order please make sure that you calculate the amount of keys you require to store in a safe so that you select the most appropriate key safe.

We would also suggest to order a key safe that has a slightly higher key capacity than you initially require as you may want to store more keys in the near future.

Professional Advice on Key Safes

Please contact us if you require any further help or advice in the selection of a key cabinet or outdoor key safe.

Free UK Delivery is included on all models in our key safe and key cabinet range.