Master Key Duplication

In this blog entry, the Atlanta master key and Atlanta key duplication service here at Atlanta Fast Locksmith will detail the facts to know about master keys and master keys duplication.

Generally, master keys and grandmaster keys are meant to fit into patented keyways. This means they cannot be sold at stores or copied at hardware stores. Master keys CAN be copied with proper key provider authorization. This is crucial to ensure the security and integrity of your master key system. Restricted keyways are patented, unable to be sold on the open market or copied at hardware stores. Master keys can only also be occupied with authorization by key providers.

Who holds master keys?

The individual who holds and handles master keys and grand master keys are based on the organization. In some locations like schools, hotels, or apartment buildings, superintendents or the main maintenance person will have a master key to open all the property’s doors. Often managers have master keys to open all doors while employees have sub master keys to open only some doors. Usually there’s always a designated person that’s allowed to hold a master key, with attention paid at all times to who holds what key and when.

What’s a 999 key?

Criminals use lock bumping to enter properties, with around 90% of typical locks being vulnerable to this criminal entry tactic. Lock bumping is often performed on pin tumbler locks using a bump key, also known as a 999 key. 999 keys are cut to bypass security mechanisms often built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. They are called 999 keys since all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth of 999 with a key creation machine. It’s very easy to get a bump key, so it’s essential that home and business owners ensure that all the locks at their property are bump resistant. Contact a professional lock installation team for assistance in installing bump resistant locks at your property.

Are there different forms of master keys?

Absolutely. Sometimes only a simple master key is creed, allowing you to open different doors in a property with one key. There’s also lobby master keys, meant for use in residential buildings, allowing every user to access the permitted community areas with a single key, but only allowing those with higher security levels to use a master key that can open different apartments, safes, utility rooms, and the like.  Some lobby master keys meant for use on multi block residential complexes with shared spaces, often used in properties with multiple residential blocks with different common areas. These systems provide each resident a single key that can open the door to a few areas like their own apartment, the lobby, and common areas like garages. The final kind of master key are grandmaster keys that allow those with the highest security level ro access all the doors and areas of a building – often provided to company CEOs and the head of building maintenance.