Master Key systems allow two or more keys to work the same lock. This is usually used to allow a homeowner to have a unique key (called a change key) for his/her lock and the management to have a key that opens every lock in the community or building (commonly called a Master Key). Master Key systems offer significant benefits for a community, but let's start with how the whole thing works.
How it Works:
If you have already read my "How Locks Work" article, then you know that locks work off of pins and tumblers. The varying size pins line up with the cuts on a key to allow the plug to turn and activate the lock. So, if a lock has pins numbered 3-5-4-2-1 then the cuts on the key must be 3-5-4-2-1.
But how does the Master Key come in? If we add another set of pins into the equation then a lot of possibilities open up. Let me give you an example with a master pin in just one cell:
The lock is pinned 3-5-4-2-1 with a #2 master over the first #3 pin. Now the original key works cut to 3-5-4-2-1, but a second shear line is available at 5-5-4-2-1 (just add 2 to the first #3 pin). Two keys will now open the same lock. By manipulating these pins and combinations all sorts of possibilities open up.
The Good:
Master Key systems allow for a variety of useful situations:
The manager can have one key to enter any unit in an emergency.
Maintenance personnel can be given a key that only opens maintenance or storage doors
Keys can be made for specific vendors like the pool, elevator, or alarm companies to give them restricted access to only the areas they need.
Common area locks can be set-up so that any property key will open the lock. This is useful for pool gates or common storage rooms.
A well designed Master Key system can remove frustration, increase security, and allow for quick access in an emergency. In fact in some areas Emergency Services require Master Key systems to ensure access in the event of fire, flood, or medical emergency. When the worst happens, then quick access can save lives and property.
The Bad:
When one key exists that opens every door on the property, there is a tremendous responsibility to keep that key secure. Any property with a Master System should have a well organized key tracking system in place and the master key well guarded. There are many methods to protect the master key. I wrote a review on Morse Watchman's KeyBank Product Review which I believe is the best key tracking system out there and used by Casinos and Government agencies. Another way to keep the Master Key secure is to design the system around a key that cannot be duplicated. I am not talking about just stamping the key "Do Not Duplicate," but some keys truly can only be duplicated by the locksmith that issued them. An economical way to accomplish this is Medeco's KeyMark X4 (Product Review: Medeco's KeyMark X4).
Your Locksmith is the Key:
Pardon the pun, but you must establish a good relationship with your locksmith in order to ensure that the Master Key system is maintained properly. Every locksmith that works on a lock within the Master Key system opens up security risks and other unknown factors. A Master Key system is complex and not every locksmith is capable of properly maintaining the integrity of the system. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right locksmith:
Are they licensed and insured?
How responsive are they to offering a quote and answering your questions? If they are tough to reach or slow to respond now, it will only get worse in the future.
How long have they been in business? A well maintained system will last many years. You need to be sure your locksmith will still be in business.
Have they designed and installed master key systems elsewhere? Ask for references. A good locksmith will have past clients that can attest to their work.
How concerned are they about protecting the Master Key? Beware locksmiths that are flippant about the Master Key's security. Remember, every one of their employees that works on the system can potentially recreate a key.
How professional are they? Are their vans/trucks in disrepair? Do they wear uniforms or present themselves well? A company that does not keep their own equipment or employees clean and well organized is not going to properly maintain your Master system.
With today's technologies, there is no longer a need for those large key-rings with 50+ keys on them. Contact your locksmith for a quote and review your property's needs with them. Many locksmiths will offer a free security review of your property and will give you a free quote on upgrades and repairs. This way you will have the knowledge and tools to increase the security for the homeowner's on the properties you manage.
About the Author:
Key C. Powell, owner of Key Locksmith Services, has over 25 years experience and understands the unique needs of businesses, homes, and condominiums in Collier County. Key's dedication to customer satisfaction and staying on the cutting edge of current technology has made Key Locksmith Services the premier locksmith in Naples and the first choice of homeowners, Realtors, property managers, and business owners.
http://www.naples-locksmith.com/
How it Works:
If you have already read my "How Locks Work" article, then you know that locks work off of pins and tumblers. The varying size pins line up with the cuts on a key to allow the plug to turn and activate the lock. So, if a lock has pins numbered 3-5-4-2-1 then the cuts on the key must be 3-5-4-2-1.
But how does the Master Key come in? If we add another set of pins into the equation then a lot of possibilities open up. Let me give you an example with a master pin in just one cell:
The lock is pinned 3-5-4-2-1 with a #2 master over the first #3 pin. Now the original key works cut to 3-5-4-2-1, but a second shear line is available at 5-5-4-2-1 (just add 2 to the first #3 pin). Two keys will now open the same lock. By manipulating these pins and combinations all sorts of possibilities open up.
The Good:
Master Key systems allow for a variety of useful situations:
The manager can have one key to enter any unit in an emergency.
Maintenance personnel can be given a key that only opens maintenance or storage doors
Keys can be made for specific vendors like the pool, elevator, or alarm companies to give them restricted access to only the areas they need.
Common area locks can be set-up so that any property key will open the lock. This is useful for pool gates or common storage rooms.
A well designed Master Key system can remove frustration, increase security, and allow for quick access in an emergency. In fact in some areas Emergency Services require Master Key systems to ensure access in the event of fire, flood, or medical emergency. When the worst happens, then quick access can save lives and property.
The Bad:
When one key exists that opens every door on the property, there is a tremendous responsibility to keep that key secure. Any property with a Master System should have a well organized key tracking system in place and the master key well guarded. There are many methods to protect the master key. I wrote a review on Morse Watchman's KeyBank Product Review which I believe is the best key tracking system out there and used by Casinos and Government agencies. Another way to keep the Master Key secure is to design the system around a key that cannot be duplicated. I am not talking about just stamping the key "Do Not Duplicate," but some keys truly can only be duplicated by the locksmith that issued them. An economical way to accomplish this is Medeco's KeyMark X4 (Product Review: Medeco's KeyMark X4).
Your Locksmith is the Key:
Pardon the pun, but you must establish a good relationship with your locksmith in order to ensure that the Master Key system is maintained properly. Every locksmith that works on a lock within the Master Key system opens up security risks and other unknown factors. A Master Key system is complex and not every locksmith is capable of properly maintaining the integrity of the system. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right locksmith:
Are they licensed and insured?
How responsive are they to offering a quote and answering your questions? If they are tough to reach or slow to respond now, it will only get worse in the future.
How long have they been in business? A well maintained system will last many years. You need to be sure your locksmith will still be in business.
Have they designed and installed master key systems elsewhere? Ask for references. A good locksmith will have past clients that can attest to their work.
How concerned are they about protecting the Master Key? Beware locksmiths that are flippant about the Master Key's security. Remember, every one of their employees that works on the system can potentially recreate a key.
How professional are they? Are their vans/trucks in disrepair? Do they wear uniforms or present themselves well? A company that does not keep their own equipment or employees clean and well organized is not going to properly maintain your Master system.
With today's technologies, there is no longer a need for those large key-rings with 50+ keys on them. Contact your locksmith for a quote and review your property's needs with them. Many locksmiths will offer a free security review of your property and will give you a free quote on upgrades and repairs. This way you will have the knowledge and tools to increase the security for the homeowner's on the properties you manage.
About the Author:
Key C. Powell, owner of Key Locksmith Services, has over 25 years experience and understands the unique needs of businesses, homes, and condominiums in Collier County. Key's dedication to customer satisfaction and staying on the cutting edge of current technology has made Key Locksmith Services the premier locksmith in Naples and the first choice of homeowners, Realtors, property managers, and business owners.
http://www.naples-locksmith.com/
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