Window locks but no keys - how to ID?

Peggy0628

Hi,
is there a way to find out what key I need for locks on upvc windows? I'm trying to get a home insurance quote and one of the questions is if the downstairs windows are fitted with working locks. All window have locks (unlocked at the moment) but I haven't been given any keys by the letting agent. They told me they don't have any and they don't know what keys the locks need either. Is there a way to find out (the window handles are not the same, there appear to be 3 different types in the house)? There are no stamps/marks/engravings on any of the handles. The house is in a fairly run-down area with a lot of crime/anti-social behaviour so I'd really like to be able to lock the windows even if it makes no different to the insurance cost... Thanks in advance.

[Deleted User]

Hi,

can you stick up a couple of photies, please?

Le_Kirk

Have you a local Window Doctor (or even a Door Doctor) available in your area?

plumb1_2

Quite easy to replace the handles with new ones, 10 minute job for each one.
prices from £4 to £10 each

knightstyle

If on a new estate see if neighbours keys fit.

Alanp

Yes, easy to fit, you need to remove one to measure the spindle to get the correct size, we’ve just changed a few recently, or I should say my mrs did, not difficult at all

twopenny

Is there a good key cutter in the area?
We have one, he does a lot of work for the police and has a great repertoire on locks and which keys will fit.
You'll need good photos for him/her preferably printed so they can study.

Section62

Alanp said:

Yes, easy to fit, you need to remove one to measure the spindle to get the correct size, we’ve just changed a few recently, or I should say my mrs did, not difficult at all

Not all uPVC window handles/locks have spindles - older windows could have other/non-standard furniture.

This could make it much harder to obtain (and fit) replacement handles compared to more modern windows.

Pictures of the three different types the OP has would help them in getting the correct advice.

TELLIT01

The OP refers to a letting agent so they can't just replace locks or handles.

outtatune

If you're a tenant you won't be able to replace the locks, but any of the online window handle stores will be able to ID the key type just from a photo of the handles.

kazwookie

I would have thought this was the landlord's / agents problem, to get it fixed.

The OP should be looking at contents insurance only.