Mail order master key system

[Buggs41]

Can a landlord get a masterkey system built via a lock manufacturer, or an internet site?

I did go through the FB course, but my day job (electrician) has prevented me from going through the channels of setting up a business license, tax id..etc.

A co-worker of mine referred a person to me that wants one 24 room apartment complex set up. They already have a system, but the property has gone through a few ownership changes since it was set up. The locksmith they are using is not sure if it was his set-up, or someone elses. So he has simply told them that the info is propietory, and that he can't provide the info. The landlord thinks he doesn't even have any info on file.

This landlord has a few other complexes that will need to be set up also. But the 24 unit one is on top of his list due to many keys that don't work correctly.

I can't 'legally' charge him for my services because the government doesn't know I exist. I informed the landlord that I do not have a business set up, and a lock manufacturer might be able to meet his demands on a new master key system. If this is not correct, please let me know.

[straightpick]

Are you saying that the locksmith who is currently servicing this customer doesn't know if HE set the system up? Who did then? And how does he know what it is if he didn't set it up? What are the parameters required? Brand and number of locks, how many units, how does he want the keying set up, just a master key and change keys, a master for each floor, etc.

You may be able to get a system from the manufacturer but only if you buy new locks and have them masterkeyed at the factory. Generating the system is not difficult, pinning the cylinders is. The cylinders have to be in very good shape in order to have a reliable master key system.

[Buggs41]

The locksmith is not sure if he set the system up, and can't provide any info that he in fact did.

This would be a new system. The old system (20+years) with the current locksmith is not working for him.

Keyway/brand is not important to him. IMHO SFIC would be the best decision.

This person contacted me on my work phone while I was at work. I told him I would do more research, and get back to him on what I find. I am not set up to be a 24/7 locksmith yet.

I would like to help him out, even though I might not earn a paycheck from it.

[Rickthepick]

Are you uk? theres loads of companies will make stuff up for you. what kind of locks are required? euros, rim cylinders, lever locks?

[Buggs41]

I am located in central Wisconsin. USA

The building that needs the new system is in a town that is an hour drive away. I believe all locks are KIK. I'll have to call him back to confirm.

I would like to help him, but due to his distance from me, and the fact that I am not set up as a business, I am reluctant to tackle the job. However, I would like to give him any assistance I can.

My main question is: Can he purchase a complete master key system directly from a lock manufacturer?

[globallockytoo]

I am located in central Wisconsin. USA

The building that needs the new system is in a town that is an hour drive away. I believe all locks are KIK. I'll have to call him back to confirm.

I would like to help him, but due to his distance from me, and the fact that I am not set up as a business, I am reluctant to tackle the job. However, I would like to give him any assistance I can.

My main question is: Can he purchase a complete master key system directly from a lock manufacturer?

You can purchase direct but usually they will provide all new locks (complete). Most locksmiths will be able to quote to provide a system. If it were me (I am in Missouri), I would charge $15 per keyhole to be master keyed and $5 per each 1st key (standard non-restricted system).

Labor per door would be $30 to remove and refit, dismantle, reassemble etc.

And of course a call out fee.

If you know how to master key and are prepared to draw up the keying schedule, I would be happy to sell you the codes for $50. Then you can just cut your own keys and key up the locks yourself.

Then you are just re-master keying the existing products and no new hardware will need to be purchased. Saving $$$

[WOT]

Make sure you clarify who has ownership to the bitting table. If it's mail order from some website, its best if you order the cores (marked on side) along with the bitting chart and have them shipped to a receiving facility not related to the property the locks will be used on for security reason.