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

Lost Keys in Denmark: What to Do & Get Key Copies (2025)

Lost your apartment, office, or bike keys in Denmark? Here’s exactly what to do, who to call, and how to get key doubles—fast, legal, and stress-free!

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Tip: If you lose your keys, act fast! Many landlords and building managers can help right away, but lost keys may mean a fee or new lock for security.

Lost Keys: What To Do First

Stay Calm & Check Retrace your steps—look in bags, pockets, bikes, and at work/school. Most lost keys in Denmark are found within a few hours!
Call Landlord or Building Manager If in an apartment, call your landlord or “vicevært” (caretaker). They can often open the door or lend a spare key.
Emergency Locksmith For urgent entry, contact a 24/7 locksmith (“låsesmed”). Average cost: 900–1500 DKK.
Copenhagen: Låsen.dk (Tlf: 70 70 20 80)
Aarhus: Byens Laase (Tlf: 86 13 20 44)
Bike Keys Many bike shops and locksmiths can open or cut bike locks if you show proof of ownership.
Insurance & Security Tell your landlord or housing office if you lost a key with address. They may change locks (you may have to pay).
Police Report (If Stolen) If keys were stolen, file a police report online at politi.dk. Needed for insurance claims.

How to Get Key Doubles in Denmark

Where to Go? Hardware stores (“byggemarked”), bike shops, or locksmiths (“låsesmed”) make key copies.
Popular chains: STARK, Silvan, Jem & Fix
Do I Need Permission? For most flat/building keys, yes—you need a letter/email from the landlord/housing association. Bike and padlock keys usually require no paperwork.
Cost & Waiting Time Simple keys: 60–150 DKK. Security keys: 200–500 DKK (allow 2–7 days for restricted keys).
Security/Restricted Keys Many apartment/building keys are “security” keys. These need permission and are ordered from a central supplier.
Landlord or Housing Office If unsure, always contact your landlord or “boligforening” for instructions on getting a copy.
Bike Keys Take your bike or lock to a bike shop. They can cut a new key or change the lock on the spot.

Useful Links & Emergency Contacts

24/7 Locksmith (Cph) Låsen.dk – 70 70 20 80
Locksmith Aarhus Byens Laase – 86 13 20 44
STARK Hardware stark.dk
Lost Property Office Cph Lost Property – 33 66 36 00
Tenant Rights Deposit, repairs, and landlord disputes.
Read more
Biking in Denmark Lost bike? How to report or recover.
Read more
Emergency Help Emergency numbers and who to call.
Read more
Moving Out Guide Checklist for handing in keys and deposits.
Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a new apartment key without my landlord? Not for most building/flat keys—permission is needed. Always check before copying.
Will I have to pay for lost keys? Usually yes, especially if a lock change is needed. Insurance may cover the cost—check your policy.
How do I get a bike key copied? Visit a bike shop with your bike or lock. Most can make a new key quickly.
How long does it take to get a new key? Basic keys: 10–15 minutes. Security keys: 2–7 days after landlord approval.
Can I get extra mailbox keys? Yes, through your housing office or locksmith—same rules as for apartment keys.
What if my key was stolen? File a police report. Your landlord may insist on changing locks for security.