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Havent got all keys...what next?
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smcqis
Posts: 862 Forumite


We completed start of June, I picked up keys and thought it was strange there were only 2 but there were 2 front door keys in the property. There was no spare back door key or garage key. I rang EA that day, he said he would contact vendor.
Few days later we received letter from vendor saying he was for fixing broken window and changing side lock on storage shed as key had been lost and he would leave the spare keys in after job was done. Although we didnt like idea of them still having access we raised no issue as we wanted the stuff fixd and we werent living in it till we paint etc. He also asked for 100 quid to be left in to EA for remaining oil in tank (this was at negotiable in F&F but after speaking to EA (before completion) he said vendor decided not to charge.
The items were fixed (greatly appreciated) but we still havent received the spare keys. We havent left in any oil money simply because curtain rails were taken (nt mentioned on list).
Surely we can demand the spare set or should we just change locks? There is an alarm on property we have changed code.
Your thoughts or suggestions appreciated
Few days later we received letter from vendor saying he was for fixing broken window and changing side lock on storage shed as key had been lost and he would leave the spare keys in after job was done. Although we didnt like idea of them still having access we raised no issue as we wanted the stuff fixd and we werent living in it till we paint etc. He also asked for 100 quid to be left in to EA for remaining oil in tank (this was at negotiable in F&F but after speaking to EA (before completion) he said vendor decided not to charge.
The items were fixed (greatly appreciated) but we still havent received the spare keys. We havent left in any oil money simply because curtain rails were taken (nt mentioned on list).
Surely we can demand the spare set or should we just change locks? There is an alarm on property we have changed code.
Your thoughts or suggestions appreciated
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Comments
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Your insurance can have clauses that your locks be fitted by an approved locksmith and the you have the certificate for the lock and all the original keys .
I would get them changed by a locksmith and get the certificates, receipts for the work and keep them safe.Hi, we’ve had to remove your signature. If you’re not sure why please read the forum rules or email the forum team if you’re still unsure - MSE ForumTeam0 -
Your insurance can have clauses that your locks be fitted by an approved locksmith and the you have the certificate for the lock and all the original keys .
I would get them changed by a locksmith and get the certificates, receipts for the work and keep them safe.:footie:Regular savers earn 6% interest (HSBC, First Direct, M&S)
Loans cost 2.9% per year (Nationwide) = FREE money.
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Are the doors locked or do you have access?
Personally I change all the locks anyway when moving in - there could be countless people who have copies of the existing keys.
Change all the locks (most can be done yourself for £5-10 very easy DIY job!), make copies for your family, and forget the vendor.0 -
Change the locks, even if they hand over keys you have no idea who else has copies.
I always change the locks on moving. With my latest house the previous vendors tried to let themselves in on the Saturday after completing on the Friday, they wanted to check for some important post they were expecting. After giving them an earful, I directed them to the post office for a redirection.0 -
Your insurance can have clauses that your locks be fitted by an approved locksmith and the you have the certificate for the lock and all the original keys .
I would get them changed by a locksmith and get the certificates, receipts for the work and keep them safe.
They often require a specific quality of lock be fitted, but I've never seen this on any policy I've had. Can you name (shame) the insurer who requires a locksmith?0 -
I have never seen that clause before. Why should I pay someone to do a 1 minute job. Unscrew the screw in the side of the door. Turn key. Remove lock barrel. Insert new lock barrel. Put screw back in side of door. It's the easiest DIY job there is. Are you saying all my insurance is invalid because I did that myself?0
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Change the locks, even if they hand over keys you have no idea who else has copies.
I always change the locks on moving. With my latest house the previous vendors tried to let themselves in on the Saturday after completing on the Friday, they wanted to check for some important post they were expecting. After giving them an earful, I directed them to the post office for a redirection.
Last time we swapped the locks on our old house for the new one as we had access to both at same time. Worked a treat, no need to buy new locks or keys and new house now secure as is old one. Obviously only worked for main front door but changing every lock would be overkill unless easily accessible from front of house.Remember the saying: if it looks too good to be true it almost certainly is.0 -
Whats the difference with a 6 pin yale lock and 5 pin?0
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Change the locks.
It's your house so make it secure.0
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