I've had the same experience with a security lock (special blank needed rather than being able to copy an existing key) in Britain - it's *supposed* to be difficult. (My rental contract specifies how many house keys I may have and that I must not try to replace them myself.)

I'd say that's score one for being efficient in making life hard for would-be burglars.

(Overall, I agree with you, though - I'd say Germany has more regulations, but isn't necessarily more efficient.