Rekeying for Commercial Buildings: What It Involves
Security is a top priority for businesses, especially when it comes to protecting physical assets and sensitive information. One essential aspect of maintaining security in commercial buildings is rekeying locks. This process not only enhances security but also provides peace of mind for business owners and tenants alike. In this article, we will discuss what rekeying involves and why it is crucial for commercial properties.
What is Rekeying?
Rekeying is the process of changing the internal components of a lock so that an old key will no longer work. Instead, a new key is created to function with the rekeyed lock. This method is often used as an alternative to completely replacing locks, offering a cost-effective solution for improving security.
Why is Rekeying Important for Commercial Buildings?
- Enhanced Security: When a business changes ownership or when employees leave, rekeying can help protect against unauthorized access.
- Cost-Effective: Rekeying is typically less expensive than replacing an entire lock system, making it an economical choice for many businesses.
- Convenience: Businesses can consolidate multiple locks into one key, simplifying key management.
- Preventing Key Duplication: Rekeying helps prevent unauthorized duplicate keys from being used, especially if previous employees had keys made.
- Emergency Access: If keys are lost or stolen, rekeying ensures that unauthorized individuals cannot access the building.
When Should You Consider Rekeying?
There are several situations in which business owners should consider rekeying their commercial locks:
- Employee Turnover: When employees leave a company, especially if they hold sensitive positions, rekeying should be a priority.
- Change in Ownership: New owners should always rekey locks to ensure that previous keys will no longer grant access.
- Lost or Stolen Keys: If keys are lost or suspected to be stolen, rekeying is an essential step to maintaining security.
- Improving Security Measures: Regularly updating locks and rekeying can help improve the overall security of the building.
How Does the Rekeying Process Work?
The rekeying process involves several steps, usually performed by a professional locksmith:
- Assessment: The locksmith assesses the existing lock system to determine the best approach for rekeying.
- Disassembly: The lock is disassembled to access the internal mechanisms.
- Changing Pins: The locksmith replaces the lock’s pins with new ones that correspond to the new key.
- Testing: After rekeying, the locksmith tests the new key to ensure it works smoothly with the rekeyed lock.
- Reassembly: The lock is then reassembled and reinstalled if necessary.
Advantages of Professional Rekeying Services
While some may consider DIY rekeying kits, hiring a professional locksmith offers several benefits:
- Expertise: Professional locksmiths have the necessary skills and experience to rekey locks correctly and efficiently.
- Quality Materials: Locksmiths use high-quality materials and tools that ensure the security and longevity of the lock.
- Customization: Professionals can offer customized solutions based on the unique security requirements of your building.
- Time-Saving: Hiring a professional saves time and effort, allowing business owners to focus on other essential aspects of their operations.
Factors to Consider Before Rekeying
Before rekeying locks in a commercial building, consider the following:
- Type of Locks: Different locks have varying rekeying procedures. Ensure your chosen locksmith has experience with your specific lock types.
- Security Needs: Assess your specific security requirements and whether rekeying is sufficient or if lock replacement is more appropriate.
- Future Plans: Consider future changes in staffing or ownership and how they may impact your security strategy.
Conclusion
Rekeying is an essential practice for maintaining security in commercial buildings. By understanding what rekeying involves and when it should be performed, business owners can make informed decisions that enhance their security measures. Whether due to employee turnover, changes in ownership, or lost keys, rekeying offers a reliable and cost-effective way to protect your business. Consult a professional locksmith to explore how rekeying can benefit your commercial property today.