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Master key systems: the essentials
What types of master key system are there?
The right structure depends on the building. In blocks of flats, maison keying is common: each tenant's key opens their own flat plus shared doors such as the main entrance, cellar and laundry room. Offices and businesses often opt for a master key system, in which one higher-level key opens several or all cylinders.
Larger buildings get a grand master key system with several levels, for instance sub-master keys for each department or floor and a grand master key for the caretaker and property management. These types can also be combined:
- Maison keying: individual key plus shared doors
- Master key: one key for all cylinders
- Grand master key system: several levels with sub-master keys
What goes into a locking plan?
The locking plan is the backbone of every system. It defines which key opens which door, how many keys exist in each group and who holds them. Together with the security card, it forms the basis for every future extension and reorder.
We work with you to record all doors, user groups and future needs, such as additional flats, plant rooms or access to the bike store. A well-designed system leaves room to grow. For property managers, we can keep the locking plan up to date on an ongoing basis, document key issues and returns, and keep track of everything when tenants change.
Mechanical or mechatronic: which suits your building?
Mechanical systems are robust, low-maintenance and need no power. Their weakness shows when a key is lost: it cannot be deactivated, so depending on its level, one or more cylinders have to be replaced.
Mechatronic systems combine mechanical locking with electronic authorisation. A lost key or transponder is simply blocked, and access rights can be time-limited or changed without removing any cylinders. On the other hand, programming and battery changes need to be planned for. The comparison is especially worthwhile where tenants or staff change frequently. A mixed solution is also possible: mechanical cylinders for the flats, mechatronic ones for the main entrance and plant rooms.
Lost a key from a master key system: what now?
Report the loss to the property management or owner immediately. What matters is which doors the lost key opens and whether it can be linked to an address. A flat key usually only affects that flat's cylinder and the shared doors, whereas a lost master or grand master key can compromise the security of the entire building.
We assess the risk with you and propose the right measure: replacing individual cylinders, recoding the affected cylinders to a new combination or, with mechatronic systems, blocking the key. If the building is left unsecured, we are available around the clock. It is also worth checking whether your insurance covers the costs.
