Losing a key happens. Maybe it slipped out of your pocket, maybe it’s at the bottom of a bag you won’t find for months — either way, if you rent, you’re probably wondering what comes next. Today’s post breaks down what usually happens and how to avoid the headache in the future.
1. Let Your Landlord or Building Know
The first step is just to tell your landlord or building management. Even if you think the key might turn up later, it’s better for them to know it’s missing.
What they usually do:
- Metal keys: They might simply replace it, and in rare cases, they may rekey the lock.
- RFID key fobs: They’ll deactivate the missing fob and register a new one.
- Garage remotes: Same idea — they delete the old one from the system and program a new remote.
It’s not usually treated like a major security emergency, but it’s inconvenient if you don’t report it right away.
2. Be Prepared for Replacement Fees
Replacement prices depend on your building, not just the device itself. Fees can include admin time, programming work, or lock changes.
Here’s a general idea of what renters might pay:
| Type of Access | Typical Replacement Cost |
|---|---|
| Metal keys | $10–$50 |
| Building fobs | $50–$400 |
| Garage remotes | $50–$300 |
| Parking stickers/tags | $100–$400+ |
Some buildings charge higher fees because it discourages people from losing them repeatedly.
3. Can You Get a Replacement Without the Building?
Metal Keys
If your key is not restricted or patented, you can usually make a copy on your own. If it is restricted, your building must approve it. If you’re curious about what’s legal, we have a full article on it:
🔗 “Which Keys Are Illegal to Copy?”
Fobs & Garage Remotes
If you still have at least one working fob or remote, then yes — you can get a copy done at a specialized service like MiniFob or at our FobToronto Headquarters. It’s quick and usually cheaper than building replacement fees.
If the only one you had is lost, management has to issue a new one.
4. Avoid the Stress Later (Just Have a Spare)
Most frustration doesn’t come from losing the key — it’s from realizing you have no way inside and management might not respond until office hours.
Having a spare helps if:
- You live with roommates
- Your parents need occasional access
- You use cleaners or pet sitters
- You run short-term rentals or lend your parking spot
If you don’t know how many spares make sense, you might like our guide:
🔗 “How Many Spare Keys Should I Have?”
5. Where You Can Get Copies (Quickly)
If you already have one working key, fob, or remote, you can get a backup at:
✔️ MiniFob partner locations across Canada/USA
✔️ FobToronto Headquarters (fastest & widest compatibility)
We copy:
- Apartment keys
- RFID building fobs
- Garage remotes
- Parking windshield stickers (UHF tags)
Copies take about 5–10 minutes.
Final Thoughts: What Happens if I Lose My Rental Key?
If you lose a rental key, the building will usually deactivate it and issue a new one — with fees. It’s not a big security scare, just an annoying problem. Having a spare ahead of time saves money and keeps you from being stuck outside your home.
If you still have a working key or fob, it might be a good time to think about a backup before you need one.
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