Restricted key and master keying systems

Our locksmith company is here anytime you need fast security services at your property. We offer quality and safety anytime you need essential locksmith works but we can also assist with more complex jobs, such as high security locks and master key systems.

A patent key or restricted key profile that can’t be duplicated easily prevents anyone from making unauthorised copies. The existing locks on your house can’t be opened with a bumped key or similar technique, and accessibility is greatly reduced for those not in possession of an official key.

Additionally, it gives you the peace of mind that you can track how many keys are in circulation for a door, or sets of doors, at any one time, allowing you full control over your home or business. Restricted keys can be used in conjunction with master key systems, too. If you have one key that opens many locks, then it makes sense to tightly control who has access to the ability to copy it.

If you’re considering a restricted key profile for your home or business, get in touch with Londoner Locksmith today on 07309666595.

A restricted key is a special type of key that cannot be cut by just anyone, such as a local key cutting service. This is because the key is patented and has a specific profile, which means it can only be cut by someone with the correct authorisation.

A new blank is used to cut the key, but before it can be cut, you will need to provide the authorisation card, which may have a unique code that is used in order to cut it to the required specifications.

No unauthorised copy can be made of the key to the lock unless the locksmith has a proprietary blank from the brand of lock and key, and you provide sufficient identification.

A restricted key system can be used by all kinds of customers, but it is mostly used by those managing HMOs and landlords with multiple properties. By using a restricted key profile, the tenant cannot get spare keys cut, reducing the need to change the locks after a tenancy.

It is also used for convenience in commercial properties like offices, as well as businesses with different departments that need to be kept secure. Additionally, it can also be used by a range of government buildings, including education facilities and healthcare settings.

There are multiple levels to master key systems so you can control exactly who has access to which door. If you want to upgrade to a master key system, here are the basic levels you should know about:

1. Choose a Grand Master Key (GMK)

This can open every door in a building that has been keyed, and is used by security managers to keep a high degree of control over access.

2. Choose a Master Key (MK)

This can be used to give access to certain people for certain rooms or floors of a building, and can be given to supervisors to maintain control.

3. Plan keys for tenants or staff

Even if you have a master key system, you still have the ability to cut keys which only open a single door, so you can choose which staff and tenants have access to it.

When you want to ensure that closing your door and locking it means nobody else can get access to do the same, a restricted key system is invaluable.

We can offer this service across rim cylinders and Euro cylinders as well as for mortice locks and thumb turns, too. We received lots of queries about combining master key systems with a restricted key system, and while it is certainly possible, it’s not always necessary.

Restricted profiles allow you to keep a log of exactly who has a key, but adding a master key system for convenience means you can narrow down who had access to a certain part of the building or room. For keyless entry, if you want to maximise safety and avoid using a key at all, then we can install everything from pin-code locks and fob-activated locks to smart opening systems.

Both types offer a solid approach to keeping properties secure, but they have their pros and cons. A keyed-alike system means you can open multiple doors with the same key product for ease of use, but with a master key system, you can give different levels of access.

We recommend master keying for larger businesses and keyed alike for residential homes, where you just want the same key for the front, back, side, patio, and garage doors for ease.

When you want to have full control of your business, installing a restricted key system means that there is no worry about staff duplicating their keys, or tenants making spares for use after they move out. If you have lost the keys or staff haven’t returned them, then you can simply rekey the lock, and it will prevent a full lock change. We have the tools to repair or service any lock in this kind of situation.