The Benefits of Having a Master Key System for Your Multi-Unit Property

You may think that a key is just a key! But it takes a lot more to safeguard a business. Master key systems give you a high level of security and prevent unauthorized personnel from gaining entry. Although digital locking systems are becoming popular today, many businesses still use numerous keys.

Security is no longer an afterthought today, and there are increased investments in workplace and residential security. The Hoppe Group says that an effective master key system is ideal because it provides the same access control to several keys via a great grand master key and so forth.

“Master key systems are mechanical key access systems whereby a single key can open all the doors that have cylinder locks within a business. This is all while enabling each door to have its own individual key if required,” says the Hoppe Group.

What is a Master Key System?

With a master key system, every key can open one or multiple locks in a specific system. Master keys work in a carefully designed hierarchy, allowing easy and convenient access to doors, gates, and other secured areas as part of property management.

Implementing a master key system offers a secure way for property owners to access parts of their community and limit the number of keys in circulation for user groups allowing for a higher level of access for those with access permissions. This limits the keys you need and cost control without the risk of unauthorized access.

Property managers, contractors and builders also benefit from master key systems because they allow them to control access to different building sections without using a separate key for each lock.  This is also cost-effective and helps to maintain the security of a business. For example, there are various levels of master keys and who can use them.

• Grand Master Key: This is a key that operates every lock within the hierarchy and is used by property owners and property managers to be able to access the apartment complex or multi-unit complex.
• Sub-Master Key: This key can unlock all apartments, laundry rooms,  storage rooms, on-site gym, and mail room. This key is also used for maintenance repair tasks throughout the property to avoid carrying heavy keys.
• Operating key: This specific key is used to unlock one door of an apartment and, most of the time, will also unlock the gym, laundry room, and other rooms shared by tenants. This type of key control offers high security and peace of mind.

 Key hierarchy within the system ensures secure and different levels of access to specific spaces within a multi-unit property, allowing for control and simplified key management.

Understanding the Different Types of Master Key Systems for Your Multi-Unit Property

Master key systems optimize security and make life easier by utilizing master key access to get into multiple locks instead of using separate keys in multi-unit buildings. Our locksmiths will install and maintain a master key system for your business, office, or multi-unit building.

One master key allows one key to access multiple entries in multi-unit properties. Using master keys optimizes multi-unit property security without needing a set of keys for different locks. Today, there is still confusion between keyed-like locks and master key systems. Here’s the takeaway:

Keyed-Alike Locks

• All locks operate with the same key (e.g., every apartment door uses identical keys). One key can open any other doors and also give you access to different areas.
• Pros: Simple to manage for small properties with specific needs that need high security.
• Cons: Less secure—losing one key compromises all locks.

Straight Master Keyed Systems

• Each lock has a unique key, but a single master key opens all locks to parts of the building.
• Pros: As part of a business’s management solutions, key systems allow for high- security and convenience (e.g., managers retain master access while tenants have individual keys).
• Cons: Complex to set up without professional locksmith support and master key system services.

Master Key System Benefits

One of the primary reasons that master key systems are part of system management is because they offer numerous benefits and access to multiple rooms within the premises for security staff and management personnel in case of an emergency, and for this reason, they can save lives. 

Most of the time, the caretaker will have a master key in a multi-unit property. The ‘master key’ opens all doors and locks the multi-unit property keeping the property safe and secure.

“The Sub-Master A opens the main entrance and all the locks on the ground floor, held by the company manager who occupies that floor. The same applies to Sub-Master B,” explains Dormakaba.

Additionally, each employer has one key that opens the main entrance, office door and filing cabinets. These keys are designed to give access to individuals or groups, and give access to various locks, padlocks and cabinet locks if the cylinder inside them is the same model. Other benefits include the following:

• Easy key management: There’s no need to carry many keys for each lock.
• Cost savings: Savings on rekeying and the necessity for multiple keys.
• Improved Access Control: By having predefined access levels, you’re getting improved security, efficiency and compliance.
• Fewer Keys: Master key system services offer flexibility in design and ease of use.
• Optimal Security: Locksmith United maximises your security 24/7.
• Suitable for Any Location: Master key systems work with all types of businesses like schools, industrial facilities, banks, apartments, commercial venues and warehouses.

Applications of Master Key Systems 

Level 2 Master Key Systems

Locksmith United can help you choose the right security solution for your property. Master key systems feature different levels, with levels 2 and 3 being the most popular. This is because level 2 systems offer the change key and the master key to open specific doors without carrying multiple keys.

Level 3 Master Key Systems

Change keys are the lowest-level keys used to make changes to the locks in the system. The master key is the primary ” top” key to open any lock. The level 3 system has three keys: the change key, the master key, and the grand master key. Level 3 systems are nothing more than level two systems with an additional grand master key, the higher level key.

Level 4 Master Key Systems

A 4-level master key system helps with easy access control by offering a fourth tier of keys. This gives you superior organizational flexibility for high-traffic environments with lots of people and staff coming and going.

This type of structure is ideal for extensive, security-sensitive facilities—such as hospitals, corporate campuses, or government buildings—where managing distinct access for staff, contractors, and departments is critical. 

While 4-level systems can be implemented in most buildings, their advanced hierarchy is best suited to complex settings requiring precise permission tiers. Smaller properties with more straightforward needs may find a standard 3-level system more efficient to enhance security.

Master Key Systems for NYC Apartment Buildings

Locksmith United offers master key system services giving you high- security with keyed locks, which includes design, installation, duplication, replacement and repair. We also rekey your locks to create a master key system saving you time and money by not having to replace existing hardware. 

We work with leading manufacturers like Mul-T-Lock, Schlage, Best, Kwikset, Medeco, and Master Lock and our expertise in master key systems enables us to create a system tailored to your needs. Contact us today for all your locksmith needs!