Lost Keys in Denmark (2025): What to Do & Legal Key Copies | exploringdenmark

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Lost Keys in Denmark: What to Do & Get Legal Key Copies

Locked out or misplaced your keys? Here’s the exact playbook for Denmark—what to do first, emergency locksmiths, how to get legal key copies, typical costs, and tenant rights.

Act fast: If your keys were on a tag with your address, tell your landlord/boligforening immediately. For security, they may rekey cylinders—fees can apply (often claimable on contents insurance).

Overview: Lost keys in Denmark

🧭 Who to contact

Start with your landlord/vicevært (caretaker). They can often open the door or coordinate spares/rekeying.

🧰 Locksmiths 24/7

“Låsesmed” services operate day and night. Expect higher rates evenings/weekends.

📜 Copies & permission

Many building keys are restricted—written authorization is required before a legal copy is made.

First steps (do these in order)

🔎 1) Retrace & call around

Check pockets/bags/desk/bike basket; call venues you visited and the city’s lost property office.

🏢 2) Landlord / housing office

Ask for help to access your flat and report the loss. They’ll advise on rekey or replacement rules.

🧑‍🔧 3) Call a locksmith (if locked out)

Use a reputable 24/7 låsesmed. Keep photo ID ready to prove residence.

🛡️ 4) If stolen: report it

File a report at politi.dk. You’ll likely need this for insurance and building security changes.

Emergency locksmiths & typical prices

⏱️ Call-out & entry

Typical call-out: ~900–1,500 DKK daytime; more at night/holidays. Prices vary by lock type and time.

📍 Copenhagen 24/7

Låsen.dk — 70 70 20 80

📍 Aarhus

Byens Låse — 86 13 20 44

How to get legal key copies

🏪 Where to copy

Locksmiths, hardware stores, and some bike shops. Chains: STARK, Silvan, Jem & Fix.

🪪 Permission

For building/flat systems, written authorization from your landlord/boligforening is usually required. Bring ID.

💵 Price & timing

Basic keys: ~60–150 DKK (while you wait). Security keys: ~200–500 DKK; 2–7 days to order.

🛡️ Restricted profiles

Many buildings use restricted key profiles—copies are controlled and logged via a central supplier.

🚲 Bike keys & locks

Bring your bike/lock to a bike shop. They can cut a new key code or swap the ring lock—often same day.

📬 Mailbox keys

Order via housing office or locksmith; same permission rules may apply as for building keys.

Costs, deposits & tenant rights

📃 Who pays?

Lost keys are commonly charged to the tenant, especially if rekeying is required. Check your lease terms.

🧾 Insurance options

Home contents insurance may cover locksmith/rekey costs after theft—insurers usually need a police report number.

Useful links & contacts

Frequently asked questions

🗝️ Can I copy a building key without permission?

Usually no. Most systems are restricted; you’ll need written landlord/association approval.

💰 How much does a locksmith cost?

Around 900–1,500 DKK daytime; higher at night/holidays. Ask for a quote before confirming.

🕒 How long to get a copy?

Basic keys: 10–15 minutes. Restricted keys: 2–7 days after authorization/order.

🚲 What about bike keys?

Bike shops can cut new keys or replace ring locks on the spot with proof of ownership.

🛡️ If keys were stolen?

Report at politi.dk, tell your landlord, and expect a rekey for safety (often tenant-paid, insurance may help).

📬 Can I get mailbox spares?

Yes—via your housing office or a locksmith. Same permission rules may apply.

Need help with a specific situation?

Describe what happened (lost vs. stolen, address on the tag, building type), and we’ll reply with practical next steps.