For property teams, landlords and care providers who need discreet spare-key access.
Ordinary on the outside. Key access inside.
A familiar property feature conceals a place to collect and return a spare key. Authorised users follow the agreed access process when the keyholder is away.
See the closed and open design
Closed: the exterior looks like part of the property.
Open: authorised users can reach the spare key.
After use: return the key and close the unit.
Two completed University of Sunderland trials
Research trials at City Campus and St Peter’s Campus explored KeySpot in everyday use, with positive feedback on discretion, practical access and staff efficiency.
Research in everyday use
The University confirmed that both trials were successful and created operational efficiencies for staff. Read the trial account for the settings and findings.
Innovate UK support
KeySpot® has been accepted for Innovate UK support to help progress product development and commercial readiness.
The next development stage
Prototype refinement continues. Independent product testing and certification form part of the development pathway and are not yet complete.
What is KeySpot®?
KeySpot makes a spare key available at the property while concealing the storage within an everyday feature, such as a house-number sign.
Designed for situations where shared access is needed and visible key storage is unsuitable.
What is DST?
Disguised Security Technology™ (DST) is the design approach behind KeySpot: integrating a security function into an everyday feature so its purpose is less obvious.
KeySpot® is the flagship product. DST™ is the wider framework being developed to guide concealed security design and evaluation.
Developed by KeySpot Security Ltd.
The Problem
People need access when the keyholder is away.
Care visits, repairs and inspections can depend on someone being available to hand over a key.
Common access problems include:
- Waiting for keys before a visit can begin
- Repeated trips to collect and return a key
- Concern about putting spare-key storage on public display
- Finding a discreet option that suits the property
The right arrangement must suit the property, its users and the organisation responsible for access.
The Solution
Access that fits the property
KeySpot® conceals spare-key storage within a familiar exterior feature, keeping its purpose discreet.
Designed to support:
- Access when the keyholder is away
- Key collection and return at the property
- Agreed access for authorised users
- A less visually obvious place to keep a spare key
Built for real-world access needs
Consider KeySpot® where unattended access and a discreet exterior both matter.
Examples include:
• Contractors visiting unoccupied properties
• Staff collecting keys for planned work
• Agreed visits by carers or support teams
• Properties where privacy and appearance matter
Our Story & Development
Founder Mark Cowie developed KeySpot® from his experience as a locksmith, asking how spare-key storage could fit into the property without making its purpose obvious.
Our Development Process
Design, build, use and refine. Working prototypes and feedback from real access settings help shape the next version.
Milestones Achieved
Working prototypes, two completed University of Sunderland research trials, and innovation support. The next stage focuses on refinement, independent testing and commercial readiness.
Latest News
KeySpot® completes two University of Sunderland trials
Two completed trials explored discreet spare-key access in everyday university use, with positive feedback on visual fit, practical access and staff efficiency.
IoCT case study: taking KeySpot® beyond the first prototype
IoCT’s published case study highlights support for KeySpot® prototype refinement, commercial strategy and preparation for manufacturing, testing and investment.
Hope Street Xchange puts KeySpot® in the spotlight
Hope Street Xchange shares the story behind KeySpot®—from Mark Cowie’s locksmith experience to developing discreet spare-key access within Sunderland’s business community.
Could KeySpot fit your property?
Tell us who needs access and what is difficult about your current arrangement. We’ll discuss the fit, the current stage of development and possible next steps.