Buying a home comes with a long list of “little decisions” you don’t always think about until you’re living there. One of the most common questions new homeowners ask is:

Should I hide a spare key outside?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no — but there are some very clear do’s and don’ts every homeowner should know.

When Hiding a Spare Key Can Make Sense

There are situations where a backup key is helpful:

You live alone and want an emergency option
Kids or teens may forget keys
You travel often
You don’t have a trusted neighbor nearby
You haven’t installed a smart lock yet

Convenience matters — but security matters more.

Places You Should Never Hide a Key

If you’ve ever thought, “No one would think to look there,” think again. Burglars are very familiar with these spots.

Avoid hiding a key:

Under the doormat
Inside a fake rock
On top of the door frame
In a flower pot
In or on the mailbox
Anywhere inside an unlocked garage

These are the first places someone checks — and many break-ins happen without forced entry because of this.

Smarter (Still Imperfect) Ways to Hide a Key

If you decide to hide a spare key, follow three rules: distance, disguise, and difficulty.

Better options include:

A lockable key box with a code
A location away from the front door
A spot that isn’t visible from the street
A place that requires effort to access

Rule of thumb:
If someone could find it in under 30 seconds, it’s not hidden well enough.

Better Alternatives Than Hiding a Key

If you’re open to safer options, consider:

🔐 Smart Locks

Custom codes for family, guests, or service providers
No physical key to lose or find
Easy to change codes anytime

👥 A Trusted Neighbor or Family Member

Often the safest solution
Especially helpful when traveling

The Bottom Line

Hiding a spare key isn’t automatically wrong — but how you do it matters.

✔️ Avoid obvious spots
✔️ Keep it away from entry doors
✔️ Limit who knows where it is
✔️ Consider smarter alternatives

Smart habits like this help protect your home long after closing day.

Should You Hide a Spare Key Outside Your Home?