Master Key Systems Explained: A Guide for Property Managers and Commercial Buildings

If you manage a commercial building or a multi-tenant property, keys become a problem faster than most people expect.

One door turns into five doors.
One tenant turns into multiple suites.
One manager turns into several staff keyholders.

Eventually, the building ends up with:

• too many keys
• confusion over access
• keys not returned
• keys copied
• and daily frustration for staff and tenants

At Supreme Lock Solutions Ltd., we design and install master key systems for businesses and property management companies across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, helping buildings operate smoother and stay more secure.

What Is a Master Key System?

A master key system is a structured keying system where:

• each door can have its own key
• selected keys can open selected groups of doors
• one master key can open multiple doors (or all doors in the system)

This allows you to build access levels that match how your building actually functions.

Example access levels could include:

• tenant keys for suite doors only
• staff keys for work areas only
• maintenance keys for mechanical and storage areas
• management keys for broader access
• master keys for building-wide access when required

Why Master Key Systems Make Life Easier

Master keys are not just about convenience.

A good master key system improves:

Organization

No more random keys with no plan.

Efficiency

Property managers can access the right doors without delays.

Security

Access can be structured instead of everyone having access to everything.

Growth planning

A properly designed system allows future expansion without chaos.

Who Uses Master Key Systems?

Master key systems are common for:

• property management companies
• commercial office buildings
• warehouses and industrial buildings
• medical and professional facilities
• retail buildings with back doors and staff doors
• multi-suite commercial properties

If you manage multiple locked doors, a master key system usually makes sense.

The Most Important Rule: Master Keys Must Be Controlled

A master key is powerful.

If a master key is lost, stolen, or copied, it can compromise the entire building.

That’s why we recommend:

• limiting who carries master keys
• tracking master key distribution
• having clear access levels
• using proper key control procedures

A master key should never be treated like a regular key.

Master Key Systems and Property Management

Property managers benefit from master keys because tenant turnover creates access chaos.

With a properly planned master key system, you can:

• rekey suites when needed
• maintain management access
• reduce the number of keys required
• support long-term building management

For larger buildings, master key systems can help eliminate constant “we can’t access the room” problems.

Master Key Systems Work Best With Good Doors

A master key system doesn’t fix door hardware problems.

If doors don’t latch properly or are misaligned, you may still experience:

• sticky keys
• hard turning cylinders
• inconsistent locking
• repeat service calls

That’s why we often inspect:

• latching
• door closer function
• hinges and alignment
• panic hardware performance

A well-functioning door system is key to reliable security.

‍