Master Key System Design
Custom master key systems for offices, apartment buildings, and commercial properties. Mobile service across Charlotte & Lake Norman, NC.
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 is quoted per visit.
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, and ask who needs access to what.
- 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
Do you come to me?
We come to you. My Locksmith Express is a mobile locksmith, open 24/7: a licensed technician and a fully equipped van travel to your car or your door anywhere in the Charlotte and Lake Norman area. We send the closest available technician.
Are you cheaper than a dealership for car keys?
For most makes and models, yes. We program transponder keys, key fobs, and smart keys on-site without needing to tow your vehicle, and we quote the exact price on the phone before anyone drives out — so you can compare it to the dealer's number yourself.
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 come to you, 24/7. Quote before we start.
