Window keys missing in my new house - how can I get copies?

[Artistic]

The title says it really. Moved into a new house recently. It was built in 2012. We've got all copies of all door keys, but none of the window keys from the previous owner. We thought we'd 'find' it eventually so we didn't ask the agent. Is there any way to get new keys made for the windows? Is there a chance all the windows might need a single key?

Please don't tell me I need to change windows or locks...Am hoping there is a simpler solution?

[morethanacondiment]

The key for the windows in my old house works in all the window locks at my new house. Very different looking uPVC windows from different companies. Actual keys look different too.
I think the window locks (in this instance) are a conspiracy.

[PigletInABlanketJohn]

almost certainly a standard key will fit them. Quickly phone the previous occupiers.

Then ask your neighbours (with identical windows) if you can borrow one of their keys. If it fits yours, photocopy it and order some by post or from your local locksmith. Note all names and numbers carefully. There are window key specialists on ebay, and there are not many brands.

All window locks are supplied with two keys, so your house should have dozens of the things. I rather suspect that window fitters steal them, so they can be sold at inflated prices to people like you.

A good trick is to put a cup-hook in the top corner of the windowframe, where it will be hidden by the curtain, out of reach of small children, and not visible to burglars, and put a key there. There should be at least one key in every room, and it should not be left in the lock.

[Artistic]

Thank you morethan & pigletJohn. I've already checked with my neighbours. Their house was built by the same builder (only 2 houses done by him) & found that they too have no window locks (they bought directly from the builder!). So I now suspect that perhaps my previous owner didn't get them from the builder either!

The neighbours don't seem very bothered but I am unable to leave this matter. Where do I go from here?

[PigletInABlanketJohn]

Photograph the handles/locks. Look for any markings.

[Didactylos]

we moved to a 3rd floor flat that had no window keys, outward opening cleanable PVC windows - and had a very active/able 3 year old who could climb onto the window sills

I sent photos of the locks to these people and had the type identified and keys in the post within days www.handlesandhinges.co.uk/window-handle-keys/
another company that apparently does a similar service www.replacementkeys.co.uk/key-identification-help

[wowfudge]

Depending on how much these key replacement places charge, it might actually be cheaper to replace the locks. I know that might seem daft, but that's what happened to us - moved into a house with 15 window locks and not a single key. I got the locks from a trade counter place and they are easy to replace.

[marriednotdead]

This happened to me some years ago.
I visited my local locksmith and after explaining my predicament, he told me that there were approximately 15 possible keys that worked on 95% of windows. I purchased one of each from him to take home and try, found the right key as I'd hoped, and returned the unsuccessful ones!

[legitsuperhero]

I used the same method as didac, sent photos of the locks to Handles and Hinges and they sent the correct keys out very promptly. Definitely recommend.

[Didactylos]

mine only cost a few quid - less than a tenner -I couldnt replace the locks as it was a rental flat and would have paid much more as I was utterly terrified re the safety issue.

[Didactylos]

I didnt buy a key for every window though, just bought two, locked what was needed to be safe and kept them in a safe place (and handed them to the next tenant)

[wowfudge]

I paid about 3 per replacement lock with key, including VAT. I'd have got on to the LL about that Didactylos - it's not on having windows like that you can't lock.

[Didactylos]

tbh the flat was a bargain and I wasnt too botheed about a tenner at the time

[Honsandrevels]

Ours were missing in our old house and my fil took photos of the window locks and went to a upvc door/window place and a guy identified keys that fitted.

[CointreauVersial]

I'm chuffed I found this thread. We have a few windows we can't actually open, and a couple where we only have one key (which I'm terrified of losing). Good to know there are companies out there who can sort me out.

[Sunflower6]

Hi I had this, you can remove the handle from the window and take it to your local locksmith and they will know what key fits the window and cut one for you.

The handles usually have a small square under them which if you lift has a screw to take off the handle.

[Artistic]

Thank you everyone for your detailed replies. I sent off pictures today to HandlesandHinges & my new Keys are already in the post! I've ordered one for each floor of the house + a spare. Not expensive at all at £2.75 per key.

Thanks a ton!!!

[MorganaGryll]

Thank you Sunflower, my husband removed the handle very quickly then took it to B&Q where he found a key to fit the lock. Very good tip.