Master Key Systems
Master key system design and installation for offices, apartment buildings, and commercial properties — one master key, controlled access per door.
How we do it
A master key system lets one key open every door while each individual key opens only its own — so management holds a master, staff open only their areas, and key control stays with you. B&B Locksmith designs, installs, and maintains master key systems for office buildings, apartment complexes, retail, and multi-tenant properties across the Bay Area. We can rekey your existing locks into a new hierarchy without replacing hardware, build the system on restricted keyways so keys can't be copied at a hardware store, and key common doors so one key runs the whole building. For property managers we document the keying schedule and provide a written quote before any work begins.
What's on the truck
Common questions
How does a master key system work?
A master key system is built so that one master key opens every door in the system, while each door also has its own change key that opens only that door. B&B Locksmith designs the hierarchy — for example, a building master for management, sub-masters for floors or departments, and individual keys per office or unit — so everyone holds exactly the access they should and no more.
Can you rekey all my locks to one key?
Yes — keying multiple locks to a single key is one of the most common requests we handle. If your locks share compatible keyways, B&B Locksmith can rekey them so one key opens the front door, back door, suite, and common areas. Where you also want individual control, we build a full master key system instead, so one master covers everything while each door keeps its own key.
Can you set up a master key system for an office building?
Yes. Office buildings are a core use case: management gets a master, each tenant or department gets keys to their own space, and shared doors (entrances, utility rooms) are keyed into the plan. B&B Locksmith can usually rekey your existing hardware into the new system rather than replacing it, and we document the full keying schedule for your records.
What is a restricted keyway, and do I need one?
A restricted keyway uses patented key blanks that can't be cut at an ordinary hardware store — copies can only be made by an authorized locksmith with your authorization. For master key systems where key control matters (offices, multi-unit buildings, anywhere unauthorized copies are a risk), restricted keyways are strongly worth it. B&B Locksmith will walk you through whether it fits your property and budget.
Often paired with this
Commercial Service
Master key systems, panic bars, high-security locks & business lockouts. Licensed C-28, bonded & insured — free on-site quote, same-day service.
Safe Installation
Safe installation, bolt-down, relocation & locked-safe opening for homes and businesses — done by a licensed, insured Bay Area locksmith, not a delivery crew.
Rekeying
Lock rekeying for homes, businesses, and rentals across the Bay Area — every old key stops working, your hardware stays.