Replies

1. 
   BillHartmann | Dec 17, 2003 09:24pm | #1

   There might be some fancer systems out there, but almost any lockset can be setup with two level pins that allow the use of a master key, but also an individual key.

   If this is a large enough building you might think about getting a spare cylinder or two. Then when you have some one whose keys are stolen or moves out you just replace the cyclinder and then take the old one and get it rekeyed as the new spare.

1. 
   WebTrooper | Dec 17, 2003 09:45pm | #2

   You can have a locksmith masterkey some locks, then have the tennants keys work on their own only. They can always change it later so the tennant key no longer works but the master key still does. Ask a locksmith about it. They can tell you everything you need to know.~ WebTrooper ~

   "But don't take my word for it. I was wrong once and it could happen again!"

2. 
   DanT | Dec 17, 2003 10:05pm | #3

   Bill is right.  I was a locksmith for a few years and you can get systems that have a removable core.  Makes rekeying a snap.  Not cost effective for rentals though.  Hard to get those systems down under a $100 a lock with spares and all. 

   You can order as many units as you need through Lowes, HD, local locksmith or hardware and have them master keyed at the factory.  Get them all alike and a couple of spares as you want to rotate the lock at the tennant change.  DanT

1. 
   Mooney | Dec 18, 2003 01:47am | #4

   Kwickset sells a locking pin unit for under a hundred dollars. Their locks cost bout 20 dollars for dead bolt and lock. You can buy locks off the shelf and repin them saving one locking pin that is the same for the master key . When a tennat moves out that didnt "think to leave a key",  you can repin the lock on a 5 pin system .  Just use a key from a different lock set to run the new locking . Ive ended up with a drawer full over the years from peoples houses and mine. I used to chunk the locks for several different reasons but not if they are Kwickset. 

   Tim Mooney

3. 
   JohnSprung | Dec 18, 2003 04:51am | #5

   Check your local laws re. locksmith licensing.  One odd wrinkle here is that you can buy the parts and re-key locks without a license, except that you're required to have one for master key systems.  I did a google search and found a place in Texas that mail orders Kwikset parts, KwikLocks.com or something like that.

   -- J.S.

1. 
   brownbagg | Dec 18, 2003 05:00am | #6

   buy kwikset locks, you can learn to rekey these units in about ten minutes, real easy. I been rekeying kwickset since 1981

   The best employee you can have but you wouldn't want him as a neighbor " He the shifty type"