7 Essential Things to Check Before Buying a Key Safe

Choosing a key safe isn’t just about convenience — it’s about security, reliability, and peace of mind. Whether you’re helping a loved one stay independent, need access for carers or cleaners, or want a secure way to share keys, the right key safe makes all the difference.
But with so many options available, how do you know which key safe to trust?
Here’s what to look for before buying a key safe - and how to avoid common mistakes.

Here are 7 essential things to check before you buy a key safe - and how to avoid common pitfalls.

1. Is it a police preferred key safe?

Always look for the Secured by Design logo - the official UK police security initiative that improves home safety standards.
The Key Safe Company is proud to be a Secured by Design member, and our Police Preferred key safes carry this trusted mark of approval, making them the most secure mechanical key safes in the UK.

2. Has the key safe been independently attack tested?

Independent testing is essential.
The Key Safe Company's Police Preferred key safes are tested by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB), an independent globally recoginised organisation that has worked with industry experts and insurers since 1868 to set safety and security standards. This testing confirms that each product performs as promised, helping to reduce safety and security risks.
LPCB supports insurers by ensuring products are reliable and meet industry standards, which insurers recognise and trust when assessing risk, so when you see this accreditation, you know it's a product you can rely on. 

Every key safe in our police preferred range meets the LPS1175 Issue 8 standard - the same standards as a front door or window - proving it has been rigorously attack tested by independent authorities.

The ark Tamo range holds the highest LPCB security standard among push-button key safes, making ark Tamo and ark Tamo Pro the world’s most secure mechanical key safes.

3. Does the key safe offer real value for money?

Not all key safes are truly "safe'.
Reports of 'key safe breaches' highlight how cheap, untested models can put homes and loved ones at risk.
At The Key Safe Company, security isn't optional - it's built into everything we do.

Cheaper safes may seem like a bargain but can cost more in the long run through replacements, the need to change locks, and most importantly, the potential financial and emotional consequences of a break-in.

The Key Safe Company's police preferred key safe products are built to last a lifetime - with the maximum security ark Tamo range tested to last up to 80 years.

Of course, it's all about managing risk, but why put the keys to your property into something that can easily be broken and breached? We are here to help you make an informed decision to avoid any unpleasant surprises at a later date. If you are seeking independent advice, our friendly UK-based customer service team is on hand to provide product recommendations based on your unique requirements, considering everything from level of risk to budget.

4. Will the key safe give you peace of mind?

A good key safe protects the keys to your most valuable asset - your home.
Rest assured, The Key Safe Company's police preferred key safes are independently certified by security professionals, giving you total peace of mind that your keys are secure.

The ark Tamo key safe sets the highest standards in its category.

At The Key Safe Company, we offer a two-year warranty as standard, with the ability to extend this to a five-year period for enhanced peace of mind.

5. How reliable is it?

Since 1996, The Key Safe Company has supported care privders and emergency services by enabling safe and reliable access to homes at critical times of need.
Our key safes quite literally enable the delivery of life-saving services, and therefore their reliability must be unquestionable - a responsibility we take very seriously.

The Key Safe Company's industry-leading key safes are mechanically operated, rather than electronic, meaning they are never at the mercy of intermittent Wifi, dodgy phone signal or a failing battery.
They are reliable and will work 100% of the time with little maintenance and no battery replacements.

Choose mechanical reliability over electronic uncertainty.

6. Is installation easy?

At The Key Safe Company, our products come with custom-designed security screws and step-by-step installation and setup guides that make DIY installation hassle-free. Our key safes are easy to fix to the wall and even more straightforward to program and set your code. 

Alternatively, we offer a professional installation service so a trusted installer can install the key safe for you, ensuring it meets the security standards required.

7. What aftercare support is available?

We don’t disappear after your purchase -  we are here to support you!
As a Trading Standards Approved company, we offer full UK-based customer support, from code changes and installation advice to choosing the right model for your needs and budget.
Rated 'excellent' on Trustpilot, we're here to help you for the lifetime of your product.

Compare key safes - police preferred vs budget options

Not all key safes are created equal.
View our Key Safe Security Comparison Chart to see how Police Preferred models outperform budget options, helping you choose the best solution for you.

Conclusion

If you are looking for advice or advice when looking for a police preferred Secured by Design key safe, our friendly team is here to help: get in touch today, or browse our police preferred range and discover why The Key Safe Company is home to the world's most secure mechanical key safe.