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Key protection

Demystifying Insurance | By Sonia | 06.06.2016

We know there’s nothing more inconvenient than losing a key. Whether it’s your car or house keys, it’s worth that extra peace of mind knowing you’re covered if need be. That’s why we offer key protection as an optional extra on your insurance policy, so if you’re prone to losing your keys - or you just want an extra bit of assurance should the worst happen - help is at hand.

The benefits of key protection

We cover you and members of your immediate family for:

  • Up to £1,500 (inc VAT) of cover for lost or stolen house, car or office keys as standard
  • Keys that are locked in your home, car or office
  • Keys that have broken in a lock

 

Whether you’re stranded without access to your vehicle, or are unable to get into your home, we’re here to help.

How does it work?

If you lose your keys, you should make a claim within 48 hours, as well as contact the Police and get a crime reference number. You should then call a locksmith directly to get your keys replaced. You’ll need to send your invoices and receipts to Direct Group so they can validate your claim and reimburse you without delay. If you have a crime reference or lost property number, they’ll need that too.

If you’re stranded away from home, we can also cover vehicle hire or public transport costs to get you back, assessed on a case-by-case basis. You will be covered for £75.00 (inc VAT) per day for vehicle hire, for up to 3 days and for long journeys 15 miles and over. All replacement keys or locks will meet the same specifications as the original.

What isn’t covered by key protection?

If you don’t let the team know that your key has been lost or stolen within 48 hours or don’t have valid receipts for public transport or taxis, unfortunately they cannot validate your claim. You’ll also need to report stolen keys to the police and obtain a crime reference number within the same 48 hour timeframe.

Our key protection policy does not cover:

  • The full replacement of locks, when only parts need replacing
  • Wear and tear to locks or keys
  • Replacement of additional keys
  • Damage to locks by attempted theft or malicious damage

 

Although, replacement locks cover is included as standard with our home insurance for outside doors when keys are lost or stolen up to £1000 (inc VAT).

For full details of what is or isn’t covered under key protection, please check your policy documents or give us a call on 0800 561 0711. Our team of UK-based advisors are always pleased to help.