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Alex attended a property in Barnet EN5 after the homeowner accidentally snapped the only key they had in the front door lock.
The homeowner explained that the broken key was their last remaining key, leaving them concerned about how they would secure the property.
Rather than immediately replacing the lock, Alex first considered whether the broken key could be professionally extracted. Before deciding on the most appropriate solution, he asked an important question:
"Does anyone else have a spare key?"
The homeowner confirmed that no other keys existed. This immediately changed the recommendation. Although the broken key could potentially have been extracted, doing so would still have left the homeowner without a usable key to secure the property.
Following an inspection, Alex discussed the available replacement options, explaining the differences between a standard cylinder, a British Standard 1★ anti-snap cylinder and a 3★ high-security cylinder, together with the benefits of each.
After considering the options, the homeowner chose to upgrade to a British Standard 1★ anti-snap cylinder, providing improved protection while receiving a completely new set of keys.
The new cylinder was professionally installed and, as with every ASJ Locksmiths job, thoroughly tested before the homeowner was invited to operate the lock themselves to confirm everything was working correctly.
Why wasn't the broken key simply extracted?
Extracting the broken key would only have restored the existing cylinder. Because there were no spare keys available, the homeowner would still have been unable to secure the property. Replacing the cylinder and supplying a new set of keys resolved the problem immediately while also improving the security of the door.
Practical Advice
If you snap your only key inside a lock, tell your locksmith before any work begins. While key extraction is often possible, it may not be the most practical solution if no other working keys are available. A professional assessment will help determine the option that best restores both access and security.
By asking the right question before beginning the repair, Alex recommended the solution that genuinely resolved the homeowner's problem, restoring security with a new set of keys while providing the additional protection of a British Standard 1★ anti-snap cylinder.
If you've broken your only key or need a trusted locksmith in Barnet, ASJ Locksmiths provide honest advice, professional lock changes and practical security solutions throughout Barnet and the surrounding areas.