A lockbox is a small lockable container that’s typically used as a storage for keys and other valuable things like money. It has a hook on top (most) that allows it to be hung on door handles, etc.
Why do we use/require lockboxes?
It avoids problems with keys floating around between team members; it prevents keys from ever getting lost. A lockbox allows a client’s key to stay secure and in one place, and easily accessible to whomever would need it from our team to access a client’s home. Lockboxes guarantee that team members are able to access homes and care for pets at all times during scheduled services.
How can I (client) purchase a lockbox?
To purchase a lockbox, go to our website and locate and click Buy Your Lockbox.
These lockboxes are eligible for Amazon Prime, so should arrive within 1-2 business days. Then, once you receive it, simply follow the instructions to set a unique 4-digit code, then attach it to the door handle (preferably) through which you’d like us to enter your home. Finally, open up your client account in Precise Petcare, find the field under “Home Access” where you can enter your 4-digit lockbox code, enter the code, and scroll down and click Save.
What if I (client) don’t have my lockbox yet, but I’ve ordered it and just don’t think it’s going to be in on time to start services?
If you have purchased our company lockbox, but are starting services with us before it arrives, you can very well hide a key somewhere in a secure/private place outside your home for the time being. There may be negative consequences with this choice, however (see below).
You can make a note in Precise Petcare that your lockbox is on the way and indicate the location of the key’s hiding place (be as descriptive as possible). If you are stuck on where to hide your key, some ideas that have worked in the past are underneath a random flower pot or outdoor mat, behind a porch post, etc.
Or, if you have another way for us to enter (via garage code or door code), we can accept that as a main entry method. The only issue we foresee with this is a keypad battery running low/dying while we’re in the middle of services and as a result, us not being able to complete services as anticipated.
Regardless, once your lockbox arrives, please make sure to program your code on the lockbox itself and then enter it in the proper field in Precise Petcare right away so that we can begin using it ASAP!
What if I (client) have my own lockbox already- can I just use that instead of purchasing your company lockbox?
You are welcome to use your own lockbox if you’d like; we would just recommend that you provide a demo on how to use it to the team member who is attending your Meet N Greet. That way, the team member can take notes on how to work the lockbox (should it be very different from ones we normally use) and relay those notes to the rest of the team so that everyone’s on the same page!
What if I have a garage code I want you to use instead of a lockbox?
That can work; just make sure the code is entered in your client notes in Precise Petcare. The only downfall with just a garage code, however, is in situations where there is a power-outage, or a battery is low/dead- it’ll be an obvious challenge to access the client’s home to care for any pets. With a lockbox, there’s no dependency on electricity or proper battery-functioning; meaning that there’s GUARANTEED access to the client’s home at all times.
What if I (client) just want to hide a key somewhere at all times instead of getting a lockbox?
Clients may also argue hiding a key or handing it directly to the team member at their Meet N Greet. In the case of hiding the key, it poses a safety threat and liability for us. A neighbor or passerby may notice where a team member grabs the hidden key and thus the house is put at risk of being broken into. Handing a key to a team member means that that team member will need to continue passing it onto other team members who work with their pets. Having a lockbox with the key inside of it avoids problems with keys floating around between team members; it prevents keys from ever getting lost, stolen, etc. The key and lockbox stay stationed at the client’s location, never to leave, secure, and always easily accessed!
What if I (client) just want to keep my door unlocked and you can enter my home that way?
That’s not recommended. Please be aware that if your home does get broken into during our time completing services with your pets, we are not responsible for whatever results from that. Again, we really encourage (and essentially require) you to get a lockbox.
