What to Look for in a Commercial Locksmith

Having a secure business is essential for the safety of your company and your peace of mind when you aren’t there. Having just any locks on the door will not be enough to provide you with the level of security you need. Those who own businesses and want to keep them safe will need to find reputable commercial locksmiths in the area who can help. Below are some of the most important things you will want to look for when you are making your choice.

Types of Commercial Properties Serviced

First, you need to find a locksmith capable of servicing your particular type of business. While there are many locksmiths available, not all are capable of servicing all manner of businesses. Some, for example, might only work on residential properties. Others may work on retail stores but not hotels. Therefore, you always want to check to see what types of businesses are served by the commercial locksmith you are considering, so you don’t waste your time.

Master Key Systems

How many doors do you have at your business? Do you really need to have a separate key for the front door, the back, and all of the doors in between? While this might be the system you have in place now, it could mean more problems for you down the road. Not only is it inconvenient, but it could also be a security risk.

Something you will want to talk with your commercial locksmith about is the possibility of getting a master key system instead. These systems will let you use just one key throughout the business. This means fewer keys to potentially misplace. It can help to reduce the hassle of finding the right key, too.

New Locks and Door Re-Keying Options

Have any of the locks at your property become damaged? Perhaps they have become broken or worn out, or maybe someone has tried to break in or pick the locks. Regardless of the cause, when there is damage done, you need to have it fixed as soon as possible.

One of the options that can work for some locks is re-keying. You can keep the same lock but have it re-keyed, so it works properly again. Of course, you will also have the option of getting all new locks for the property. In cases where those older locks are in particularly bad condition, getting new locks tends to be a good idea.

Access Control

In addition to locks, some businesses want the added protection that comes from the installation of security systems that can provide improved safety, as well as access control. This can give you better control over who is getting into and out of your business by providing certain employees with varying levels of access.

Restricted Key Systems

Something else to consider is having a restricted key system in place. This means that the keys can only be duplicated by someone who has been authorised to do so, and they can only be cut by the master locksmith who produced the design originally.

One of the main benefits of this type of system is the added security it can provide. Since only authorised people can copy them, it means you won’t have to worry about a disgruntled employee making additional copies of the key and causing problems for you later. You will have better control over your system, and you will have a record of your keys including how many copies there are, when they were made, and who authorised them to be made.

Emergency Services

One of the other key elements to look for when you are choosing a commercial locksmith will be their policy on emergency services. Some locksmiths still only operate during normal business hours, which is less than ideal. After all, most emergencies happen at the most inconvenient times. You need to be sure the locksmith you are working with can provide you with around-the-clock emergency services.

Maybe you lost your keys, forgot them, or locked them inside the business. Regardless of the situation, you want a locksmith who can come out quickly and provide you with the help you need 24 hours a day.

Quality Brands for Locks and Security Systems

While you always want to check into the reputation of the commercial locksmith you are considering, you also need to look at the brand of locks and systems they are using. You always want to find those who are using high-quality durable brands including the likes of Master Lock, Carbine, Abus, Lockwood, Evva, and Kaba, for example.

Good, strong locks are just as important as the locksmith who installs them for you. Always choose locks that are going to help keep your business safe and reduce the risk of break-ins.

Why Work with a Commercial Locksmith?

Could you simply get some locks at the local store and try to install them on your own? While this might be something a business owner may try, it is a terrible idea for a multitude of reasons.

First, you won’t know how to properly install locks designed for a commercial facility. You won’t have the tools or the knowledge, and it will take longer to do. Even once it is installed, it might not have been done correctly. Although you might’ve been trying to increase your security, putting in locks without the aid of a professional locksmith is a terrible idea.

Second, you will find that it is faster to work with a professional whether you need locks installed or you are trying to get into your building after locking yourself out. Of course, you will also have the peace of mind you deserve when you allow the pros to handle all of your locksmithing needs.

Now, you should have a better understanding of what you should look for in a commercial locksmith and why to use one. Whether you are looking for a brand-new security system, need to rekey your locks, or you need an upgraded key system, use the information above to find the best commercial locksmiths in your area.