Maintaining secure access points is essential to protecting your business, employees, and assets. Having robust locks on your business’s main entrances is only the beginning; there may be multiple access points on a commercial property that require secure locking mechanisms. Think about storage rooms, filing cabinets, basements, attics, and other spaces that house valuable items or sensitive information. With so many keys circulating among current and former employees, it’s crucial to evaluate how often you should change your business lock.
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At Unico Locksmith, we’ve helped countless businesses in the Rockville, MD area improve their security by regularly assessing and updating locks. In this guide, we’ll walk you through when and why it’s essential to change your business locks and discuss different lock types and solutions that can help secure your property.
How Often Should You Change Your Business Locks?
The timing for changing business locks varies depending on several factors, including employee turnover, the neighborhood’s security level, the value of the property, and the types of goods stored within. Although each business is unique, Unico Locksmith generally recommends changing business locks every one to two years. Regular lock changes are a smart practice for ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to your business.
Factors to Consider for Changing Business Locks:
- Employee Turnover Rate: High turnover increases the risk of unauthorized access if former employees still have keys.
- Neighborhood Security: In high-crime areas, frequent lock changes can deter potential break-ins.
- Property Value: Expensive equipment or valuable assets increase the need for regular security updates.
- Type of Business: Businesses handling sensitive information may need additional security measures to protect data and files.
Changing business locks at least once every two years can provide peace of mind. In some cases, if your business operates in a high-risk category, it might be necessary to update locks more frequently.
Key Moments When You Should Change Your Business Locks
Beyond the general timeline, certain situations call for immediate lock changes to protect your business. Here are some examples:
After a Break-In or Attempted Break-In
If someone has broken into your business, it’s crucial to change the locks as soon as possible. The intruder may have gained access with a key copy, which means they, or someone they know, could have access to your property. Replacing or upgrading your locks can prevent further unauthorized entry and add a level of security to the building.
Following Employee Terminations
If a former employee held a key to the business, particularly if they left on bad terms, changing the locks is essential. Even if the employee returned their key, they could have made copies, creating a potential security risk for your business. Rekeying or replacing the locks ensures that only current employees have access to your building.
When Keys are Lost or Stolen
Losing keys is not uncommon, but if you or an employee misplaces a business key, it’s best to change the locks. If keys fall into the wrong hands, your building could be vulnerable. Lock changes after a key loss can prevent unauthorized access and help you maintain control over who enters your property.
After Contractor or Maintenance Access
If contractors or maintenance workers had access to your building, consider changing the locks when their work is done. While contractors are generally trustworthy, there’s always a chance that someone else may have accessed your keys. Re-keying the locks can prevent potential security breaches, especially if the contractors had prolonged access to your building.
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High-Security Locks & Keys for Enhanced Protection
Traditional turn-and-lock keys are easy to duplicate, even when they display a “Do Not Copy” stamp. For higher security, consider alternative options that provide better protection and limit unauthorized duplication. Upgrading to high-security locks can enhance your business lock system and ensure a higher level of security for your property.
High-Security Restricted Keys
High-security restricted keys use unique keyways, making them difficult to duplicate without proper authorization. These keys are ideal for businesses seeking an extra level of security, as only designated locksmiths or manufacturers can create copies.
Primus Locks & Keys
Primus keys are specifically designed to provide an added layer of security with advanced technology that prevents unauthorized key duplication. These locks are excellent for business owners who want a more robust security solution without switching to a fully electronic system.
MX12 Restricted Locks & Keys
MX12 restricted keys feature a patented design, preventing unauthorized duplication. With these keys, you gain control over who has access to duplicates and can ensure that your business remains secure.
Electronic Access Systems
Electronic access control systems eliminate the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or duplicated keys. Options like electric strike systems, electronic keypads, and biometric keypads allow you to control access with a code or fingerprint. These high-tech solutions are customizable and can enhance your business lock security.
Benefits of Electronic Access Systems:
- No Physical Keys Needed: Eliminates the risk of lost or stolen keys.
- Customized Access Levels: Assign different access levels to employees based on their roles.
- Track Access History: Many systems record entry times, providing an audit trail if security issues arise.
Master Key Systems for Property Owners
For property managers or owners with multiple tenants or units, a Master Key System is an efficient security solution. It allows you to grant access to common areas while limiting tenant access to individual units. This system is also helpful for businesses needing to provide limited access to certain areas without sharing multiple keys. Additionally, a Master Key System ensures that emergency personnel can access necessary areas during an emergency.
Why Master Key Systems Are Effective:
- Efficient Access Control: Simplifies the number of keys needed for entry across different units or offices.
- Improves Security Levels: Limits access based on specific needs, reducing unauthorized entry.
- Facilitates Emergency Access: Ensures quick access for emergency responders.
When to Contact a Professional Locksmith
If your business lock system hasn’t been updated in some time, now may be the ideal time to contact a professional locksmith to review your security needs. Changing your business locks is essential for maintaining control over who can access your property. At Unico Locksmith, we specialize in helping businesses in Rockville, MD, secure their premises with tailored lock and security solutions.
Whether you need rekeying, lock replacement, or an advanced electronic system, we’re here to help. Our team of skilled locksmiths understands the unique needs of business owners, and we work diligently to ensure the safety and security of your property.
Why Choose Unico Locksmith for Your Business Lock Needs?
As a trusted provider in the locksmithing industry, Unico Locksmith prioritizes the security of your business and employees. Here’s why businesses in Rockville, MD, and beyond trust us with their locksmithing needs:
- Experienced and Certified Technicians: Our team is composed of highly skilled and certified locksmiths, ensuring quality and expertise in every service.
- Custom Solutions: We tailor our services to meet the unique needs of your business, whether you’re looking for basic lock services or advanced security systems.
- Commitment to Safety: Our locksmiths prioritize your business’s security, offering guidance on the best security practices and systems to keep your property protected.
Contact Unico Locksmith Today for Your Business Lock Solutions
If your business is overdue for a lock change or if you want to enhance your security with advanced locking solutions, Unico Locksmith is here to help. We offer comprehensive locksmithing services, from traditional rekeying and lock replacement to cutting-edge electronic access systems, ensuring your business stays secure.For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Unico Locksmith in Rockville, MD, today. Let us help you protect your business, your assets, and your peace of mind with trusted business lock solutions that provide reliable security for years to come.
