Master key systems for Memphis buildings
One key for the owner, limited keys for everyone else. We design the key plan, rekey the locks and keep a record of who holds what.
No surprises
Price first, by text, before we drive.
You never pay more unless you approve a new total by text. How it works.
We text or call you back with the all-in price, before anyone drives out.
- Mobile serviceAt your car, home or business.
- A local Memphis locksmithSent from our team.
- No-damage methods firstPicks and air wedges before any drill.
How does master keying work?
Each lock gets two sets of pins instead of one: the individual key fits one set and the master key fits the other.
So one key opens everything, while each person's key opens only their doors. Nothing about the lock looks different from outside.
What does a key plan look like?
A key plan lists each key, who holds it and which doors it opens. Here is a sample for a small office.
| Key | Who holds it | Opens |
|---|---|---|
| Grand master | Owner | Every door |
| Master A | Office manager | Front door, offices, supply room |
| Master B | Maintenance | Front door, mechanical room, storage |
| Change keys | Staff | Front door and their own office |
We draw the plan with you first. You approve it, then we rekey or replace cylinders to match.
How do you keep control of the keys?
With a key log, a restricted keyway for larger sites, and a turnover plan so one person leaving doesn't mean rekeying the building.
- A key log. We give you a simple list of each key number and who holds it.
- "Do not duplicate" stamping helps a little. A restricted keyway, where blanks are only sold to us for your site, helps a lot. We price both options.
- Plan for turnover. When someone leaves, only their door needs rekeying, not the whole building.
Who needs a master key system?
Offices with 6 or more lockable doors, apartment buildings and small complexes, churches and schools, and landlords with several units who want one key for maintenance.
What sets the cost of a master key system?
How many locks, whether your current cylinders can be re-pinned or need replacing, and whether you want a restricted keyway.
We walk the site, then text or email one fixed quote.
Questions people ask
How much does a master key system cost?
It depends on the number of doors, the state of your cylinders and the keyway you choose. After a walk-through we send one fixed, all-in quote, and that is the price.
How does a master key system work?
Each lock has two sets of pins. A staff key fits one set and the master key fits the other, so one key opens every door while staff keys open only their own.
Are master-keyed locks less secure?
Slightly, in theory, because each lock accepts two keys. Good key control, and a restricted keyway for larger sites, matter far more in practice.
Can my existing locks be master keyed?
Often, if they are decent commercial cylinders of the same brand. Mixed or cheap locks are usually replaced first, and that is in the quote.
Send us your details
Tell us what happened and we'll text or call you back with the all-in price. Got a photo of the lock, key or VIN sticker? Reply to our text with it.