Commercial service
Master key systems in Ottawa
A master key system gives each person a key that opens only what they need, while one master opens everything.
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How it works
A master key system gives each person a key that opens only what they need, while one master opens everything. Consequently a departing employee becomes a retired key rather than a building rekey. Urban Locksmith designs and installs master key systems across Ottawa.
- Step 1
Access mapped
Who needs which doors, and who supervises.
- Step 2
Chart designed
With headroom for doors you add later.
- Step 3
Cylinders pinned
Each door takes its key and the master.
- Step 4
Keys recorded
Numbered against named holders.
How a master key system works
Each cylinder carries an extra set of pins, so two different keys can operate it. Consequently your key opens your door, and the master opens every door. Furthermore, layers can be added: a floor master, a department master, then a grand master above them. Therefore the structure mirrors how the organisation actually works rather than how the doors happen to be arranged.
Designing it before cutting anything
The design matters far more than the hardware. Firstly we map who needs access to what. Secondly we decide how many levels the structure needs. Thirdly we allow room for growth, because a system with no spare combinations must be rebuilt when you add a door. Consequently Urban Locksmith produces a chart before a single pin is set.
Typical starting price
Quoted
Sometimes, if the keyways are compatible. Otherwise cylinders get swapped.
Key control and why it matters
A master key system built on standard cylinders can be undone by one trip to a hardware counter. Therefore restricted keyways are worth pairing with it, since blanks are not sold commercially. Moreover every copy gets logged against an authorised holder. Consequently you keep the convenience of masters without losing the control that made them worthwhile.
Living with the system
Keys get numbered and recorded against holders, so nothing relies on memory. Additionally, when someone leaves you retire their key rather than rekeying the building. Furthermore, adding a door later slots into the existing chart provided we left headroom. Above all, Urban Locksmith keeps your chart on file, so future changes start from the design rather than a survey.
Questions about master key systems
How many levels can a master system have?
Several. However, most businesses need only two or three.
What happens if a master key is lost?
That is serious, because it opens everything. Consequently we recommend restricted keyways to limit copying.
Can we add doors later?
Yes, provided the chart was designed with headroom. Therefore we always allow for it.
Do you keep our chart?
Yes, so future work starts from the design.
Can it work with our existing locks?
Sometimes, if the keyways are compatible. Otherwise cylinders get swapped.
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Where we cover
Across Ottawa and every community within an hour’s drive — 47 areas in total, from downtown out to Kanata, Barrhaven, Carleton Place, Kemptville and Rockland. You get an honest arrival window on the phone rather than a number chosen to win the booking.