Lost Your Keys in Paris? A Step-by-Step Guide

Losing keys in a big city feels worse than it is — if you act in the right order. Here's the calm, practical checklist we give our own clients.

1. Retrace, then check lost property

Cafés, taxis (G7 has a lost-property line), Vélib' baskets, gym lockers. Paris has a central lost property office (Service des Objets Trouvés, 36 rue des Morillons, 75015) where transport operators and police send found items — keys are among the most deposited objects. Check online or by phone before assuming the worst.

2. Get back inside

If you're locked out now, a locksmith opens the door — for a lost key this usually means drilling and replacing the cylinder, since the door is actually locked. Fair Paris pricing: from about €150 incl. VAT including a standard replacement cylinder. You'll get new keys on the spot.

3. Decide honestly: were the keys identifiable?

• Keys alone, lost somewhere in the city: the risk is low. Replacing the cylinder is still recommended, but it's not an emergency.
• Keys with your address (a parcel label, an envelope, your wallet lost together): treat it as urgent. Replace the cylinder the same day and tell your insurer — many French policies cover lock replacement after key theft.
• Keys stolen (bag snatch, burglary): file a police report (plainte). The report number unlocks your insurance coverage and matters if the keys are ever used.

4. Prevent round two

Leave a double with someone you trust rather than under the mat (burglars check the mat first — really). For families or rentals, consider a keyed-alike system (one key for all doors) or a smart lock with codes, so a lost key never locks you out again.