What is Key holding?

The responsibility of being in possession of a set of someone else’s keys – be it in an industrial or residential capacity – is a weighty one, hence the need for licensing.

Key holding in accordance with SIA regulations involves physically keeping or being in control of access to keys – or similar devices – which operate a lock, be it manually or electronically. This kind of activity would necessitate a license. However, the following should not be confused with SIA regulation key holding:

• An individual is already registered to own a key or copy of, since the property connected with that key is their own business or home
• An estate agent owns a copy of a key, since the property they now have access to is one they are attempting to sell.

Who needs a key holding license?

For those physically and directly involved in the holding of keys, a front-line licence is required. This is a small identity card that must be worn and prominently displayed, subject to licence conditions.

For supervisors, employers or managers, a non front-line licence is required. Rather than a card, this will be delivered in letter format, also detailing the responsibilities and tasks of a non front-line licence holder; participation in front-line activities is not permitted by those holding a non front-line licence.

Individuals holding non front-line licenses are permitted to carry out non front-line activities in areas other than their primary focus. For example, the director of a key holding firm would not need to apply for an additional license were they to supply door supervisors, since the supplying of employees is also a non front-line activity, and within the general realms of security work.

However, the Private Security Industry Act 2001 definitively establishes key holding as holding keys and does not include activities relating to a security response. Because of this, it is generally acknowledged that front-line key holding is not accepted as a license-worthy act, and only non front-line actions are considered legitimate. The key holding licence is therefore in all cases a letter which must be kept and (if required) produced for inspection by authorised personnel.

Licenses cost £245 for three years. This is not refundable. For employers purchasing licenses for employees, there should be no tax or National Insurance liability. For employees purchasing for themselves, you can claim tax relief against your taxable income, (eg, the basic rate of tax will merit you £49). For more details, visit the HMRC website.

Required qualifications for a key holding license:

Key holding does not require formal qualifications. However, should the job description of an individual include on-call duties – duties similar to those outlined in manned guarding activities – the relevant qualification and front-line license must also be obtained.