Employee-turnover rekey
Change selected doors so an unreturned key no longer operates the business.
Business rekeys and key hierarchy
Commercial Rekeying and Master Key Systems
Change access after lost or unreturned keys, key compatible doors alike, or build a documented master-key plan for managers, tenants, departments and facilities.
Call with the number of doors, authorized access groups and quantity of keys needed. Key or hardware photos may be requested after the initial conversation.
Rekey • keyed alike • master keyed
Commercial rekeying restores control after keys leave your hands
Employee turnover, tenant changes, lost keys and years of uncontrolled duplication are common reasons to change access without replacing every serviceable lock.
Tenant or suite transition
Rekey leased spaces, common-area doors or assigned openings according to the authorized scope.
Key compatible doors alike
Reduce the number of keys by keying compatible cylinders to one change key.
Master-key planning
Give users access only to assigned groups while authorized management keys operate a defined hierarchy.
Cylinder replacement when needed
Replace worn, damaged, incompatible or non-serviceable cylinders rather than forcing a rekey.
Key-control documentation
Define key quantities, labels, authorized holders and future duplication or rekey procedures.
Key hierarchy
Choose the correct keying relationship
These terms are not interchangeable, and the wrong assumption can create operational or security problems.
| Configuration | Who can open what | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Individually keyed | Each door has its own change key. | Separate tenants, storage rooms or areas that should not share access. |
| Keyed alike | One change key operates multiple compatible cylinders. | Small businesses or a user who should open every included door. |
| Master keyed | Change keys operate assigned doors; a master key operates a defined group. | Managers, maintenance, multi-suite properties and tiered access. |
| Grand master keyed | Multiple master groups sit under a higher-level key. | Larger facilities with documented hierarchy and strict key control. |
| Restricted / controlled keyway | Duplication requires defined authorization and controlled blanks. | Organizations that need stronger duplication control and ongoing system support. |
Access design
Master-key systems require planning before pinning
A usable system balances current access, future expansion, cylinder compatibility and protection against unintended key interchange.
Information to document
- Every door or opening included in the project
- Which employee, department, tenant or manager should access each opening
- Existing keyway, cylinder brand and hardware condition
- Current master keys and any available bitting or system records
- Number of change, master and emergency keys required
- Future doors, tenants or departments likely to be added
- Key-labeling, issue, return and duplication process
- Whether a restricted or interchangeable-core system is appropriate
A master key is a convenience and a concentrated risk.
The broader the key’s access, the more carefully it should be issued, stored and replaced when lost. Do not hand out master keys as ordinary employee copies.
From key problem to controlled system1 2 3 4 5 6
Commercial rekey project process
The final count and key hierarchy should be confirmed in writing before cylinders are changed.
Document authorization and scope
Identify the owner, manager or authorized facilities contact; list doors, locations and billing approval.
Survey cylinders and keyways
Confirm compatibility, wear, existing master keying, restricted systems and any hardware that should be repaired first.
Design the key plan
Define keyed-alike groups, change keys, master levels, key quantities and labeling.
Approve materials and labor
Separate rekey labor, replacement cylinders, keys, travel, diagnostics and tax as applicable.
Rekey, test and issue keys
Verify each authorized key at each assigned opening and record exceptions or hardware problems.
Preserve system records
Maintain the approved hierarchy and future change process so later additions do not rely on guesswork.
Clear answers
Questions customers ask before booking
What is the difference between rekeying and replacing a commercial lock?
Rekeying changes the pins or internal keying so old keys no longer work while retaining serviceable hardware. Replacement changes the lock, cylinder or both because of wear, damage, function or security requirements.
Can several business doors use one key?
Often, if the cylinders and keyways are compatible. They can be keyed alike, or arranged in a master-key hierarchy when different users need different access.
Can you add one cylinder to an existing master key?
Sometimes. The existing system, keyway, bitting, master-key records and available combinations must be evaluated. Guessing can create accidental cross-keying or security problems.
Should a business use a restricted key system?
Restricted or controlled key systems can reduce unauthorized duplication, but cost, authorization, patent status, local support and future expansion should be considered before choosing one.
How many keys should be issued?
Only the number required for authorized users, with a written record of key number, recipient, date issued and return status. A master key should be issued more narrowly than change keys.
Call (785) 556-9818
Have the door, hardware and authorization details ready when you call.
Photos of the lock, door edge, strike, panic device or closer help identify the correct scope and parts. Include billing or vendor requirements at the start.