What is the point of adding a “Do Not Duplicate” message to your key? The only thing standing between an individual and access to your property is a piece of metal. Given this fact, it’s understandable that you are wary of giving out keys and putting yourself at risk of theft.
However, it’s not always possible to avoid those situations. Perhaps one of your employees arrives to work before the rest of the staff. Perhaps you rent out your property and need to grant your tenants access in and out at all times. Access control systems can be installed or you can find other solutions, but changing your locking mechanism might not be feasible or efficient.
When it comes to giving that key out, you need to make sure as much risk is eliminated as possible. By keeping track of all copies, you can ensure that your employees and tenants never lose or duplicate their keys. Are you in the process of enforcing this policy?
LAWS REGARDING KEYS
The following information is not meant to discourage you, but there is no law in Australia that prevents your tenants or other acquaintances from duplicating your key without your permission. Even though the message may look official, “Do Not Duplicate” is more of a request you are making to the key holder. There is nothing to prevent that individual from making a duplicate key at a hardware store.
Here are some reasons explained by Locksmith Newstead.
- Key holders will think twice before making duplicates. As a reminder of your commitment, you can include a rule against key duplication in your company policy or rental agreement.
- Locksmiths who are asked for key cutting should perhaps ask questions about the situation if they see “Do Not Duplicate.”. However, non-professionals will usually duplicate any key if they have the correct blank.
- Despite the fact that someone who disregards your request may hide the extra key from you, you will be able to distinguish the copy, which does not have any message, from the original key.
A “Do Not Duplicate” key will not increase your security by law, but it will solidify your trust between you and the person you give the key to.
RESTRICTED AND HIGH-SECURITY KEYWAYS
Regardless of your trust in the people you work with or rent from, you might want a little more security than an empty “Do Not Duplicate.” threat. Fortunately, you have other options besides these three little words. Check out these improved versions of traditional key locks.
Restricted Keyway Locks
Find a lock with a restricted keyway first. Many locksmiths and key cutting shops own key blanks for your product, which is a problem with average keys. A key blank is the key before it is cut, or the design that is actually used to move the locking mechanism.
Only one locksmith has access to the key blanks you need with restricted keyway locks. You would have to find your own locksmith-and even then, the locksmith will check a list to find out who is authorized to reproduce the key. Property owners, business owners, and landlords know how many keys exist and who ordered them.
Locksmiths are prohibited from cutting or giving restricted keys to unauthorized individuals in this case. In some cases, manufacturers patent their key blanks, which can only be reproduced by authorized companies.
High-Security Locks
Look for a high-security lock as well as that protection. In a typical lock, there are thousands of possible key combinations, but a high-security lock has millions. This prevents thieves from picking or bumping the lock. It is best to ask your locksmith about the brand first because manufacturers may define “high security” differently.
It may not be a good idea to install high-security locks alone since your key holders can still make copies at the store. A restricted keyway lock with high security provides the best protection. With additional security features and an inability to duplicate the key, your property will be safe and your mind at ease.
ASK YOUR LOCAL LOCKSMITH ABOUT YOUR OPTIONS
In the event of a break-in or lost key, you would call a locksmith to change your locks and resolve the issue. Do you need a locksmith in Australia, to enhance your security before danger strikes? You should contact a locksmith in your area if several people require access to your rental building or office. Call Affordable Lock when you need key cutting.
Whether you are looking to upgrade your home or business’s security, or solve security issues, Stronghold Locksmiths is here for you! Give us a call today.