Is there a once-off key or setup fee?

What a set-up fee usually pays for

A once-off charge at the start of a rental usually pays for setting up the box: issuing keys or access credentials, registering you and any authorised users, and preparing the agreement. It is a fee for a service rather than part of the rental, so it is normally not refunded when the rental ends.

Fee, deposit or advance rental

A deposit is different from a fee. A deposit is held against obligations under the agreement, such as returning keys or settling amounts owed, and is usually refundable when the rental ends, subject to the agreement's conditions. Ask whether any amount you pay up front is a fee, a deposit or rental paid in advance, because each is treated differently when the rental ends. Knox does not charge a deposit on its safe deposit boxes.

If a key is lost

Losing a safe deposit box key is more than an inconvenience. Because a lost key could be found and misused, providers often treat it as a security matter: the box may need a new lock rather than a copied key, and there is usually a charge for this. Report a lost key to the provider as soon as you can, and do not try to have one copied. Report a lost key to Knox immediately. Because Knox keeps no copies of keys, the box has to be cut open and the lock replaced, and a key replacement fee applies; Knox notifies you beforehand so that you can attend.

Questions to ask before you sign

• Is there a once-off fee, and what does it cover?
• Is any amount refundable, and on what conditions?
• Does the quoted fee include VAT?
• What does a replacement key or lock change cost, and how is it arranged?
• Are there charges for adding authorised users later?