If the rented property is returned at a later date, all keys received must be returned. You should therefore inform the landlord, in many cases the management, promptly. They will organise a replacement key or put you in touch with a locksmith. Many property management companies work together with a locksmith, so ask them first to find a reputable provider.
If you have household contents insurance, this will cover the cost of replacement in the event of theft. If the key is lost in any other way, the tenant must pay the costs themselves. However, in most cases the entire locking system of the door does not have to be replaced directly, as a key alone does not allow any conclusions to be drawn about the flat.
However, if the key also has the address on it, for example with a tag, or if personal documents lost with the key allow conclusions to be drawn about the place of residence, the lock must be changed. In certain cases, however, personal liability insurance will cover the costs of such a lost key.
Ask your household contents or personal liability insurance whether they will cover the costs.
In addition, the life expectancy for lock cylinders and keys is set at 20 years in the parity life table. If your lock or key is already older than 20 years, the landlord may have to bear part of the costs due to its age.
Our lawyers will be happy to advise you on matters relating to tenancy law.