Master Key System Design
Custom master key systems for offices, apartment buildings, and commercial properties.
Master key systems let you give every employee or tenant exactly the access they need — and no more — with physical keys. The building manager has a master key that opens everything; individual sub-keys open only specific doors. Cheaper and more reliable than electronic access control for small-to-medium operations.
We design custom systems for offices (10-100 doors), retail chains, apartment buildings, medical / dental offices, and storage facilities. Setup is a one-time project; ongoing rekey-as-people-change costs $25-30 per cylinder.
Pricing
Flat-rate pricing confirmed on the phone before we dispatch. No hidden fees.
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
System design + 10-door installation | $$650-950 |
System design + 25-door installation | $$1,400-1,800 |
System design + 50+ doors | $Custom quote |
Add cylinder to existing system | from $95 |
Replace lost master key (full rekey) | $Per cylinder + design fee |
What's included
- System design consultation
- Hierarchy planning
- Implementation
- Documentation
How it works
- 1
Site visit and consultation
We walk your property, list every door, ask who needs access to what. Usually 30-60 minutes for small properties.
- 2
Design the hierarchy
Master key, sub-masters by department or floor, individual keys per door or area. We document the full schema for you.
- 3
Order locks and cylinders
Restricted keyway cylinders (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) take 1-2 weeks. Standard systems faster.
- 4
Install and hand off
Install all cylinders, cut all keys, train your manager on the system. Documented for ongoing management.
Why choose us
- Custom designs from 5 doors to 200+ doors
- Restricted keyways available (no unauthorized copying)
- Compatible with most existing locks or new install
- Documentation provided — you own the schema
- Ongoing service for adds and rekeys at standard rates
Common scenarios
Real situations we get called for — and what they typically cost.
Multi-tenant office building
Property manager master, individual tenant masters, sub-keys per office. ~$1,200 for 20-door setup including documentation.
Apartment complex with shared amenities
Resident keys for their own unit, separate sub-master for amenities (gym, pool, laundry), full master for property manager.
Small business with rotating staff
Server room limited to managers, supply closet for all staff, front entry for everyone. Easier to rekey one cylinder when someone leaves.
Related Commercial services
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can you arrive?+
Mobile units typically arrive within 15-30 minutes anywhere in the Charlotte / Lake Norman service area. We dispatch the closest available technician.
Are you really cheaper than a dealership for car keys?+
Yes — up to 50% less than dealer pricing on most makes and models. We program transponder keys, key fobs, and smart keys on-site without needing to tow your vehicle.
Do you charge for an estimate?+
No. We provide a written quote before any work begins. If you decide not to proceed, there is no charge.
Are you licensed and insured?+
Yes. We hold NC Locksmith Licensing Board license #3024, $1,000,000 liability insurance, and we are fully bonded. We are also NASTF-certified for secure automotive key programming.
Do you serve my city?+
We serve the entire Charlotte metro and Lake Norman area, including Charlotte, Cornelius, Huntersville, Davidson, Mooresville, Concord, Matthews, Pineville, Denver, Troutman, Kannapolis, Statesville, and Sherrills Ford.
What payment methods do you accept?+
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. We also accept cash and most digital wallets.
Need a locksmith now?
Mobile units arrive in 15-30 minutes. Quote before we start.