Gain More Control & Convenience
With a Master Key System

Master Key Systems

Streamline your Access Requirements with One Key for All Locks

In a commercial building a wide range of individuals will need to gain access on a regular basis creating considerable risk when it comes to ensuring the security of the premises. The cost of full time security or reception staff can be great, which is where the installation of a master key system can provide a simple and cost effective security solution.

These systems enable everyone with a “master key” access to the building when they need it but without compromising control of who gains access to what areas and when.

What is A Master Key System?

A Master Key System is the name given to a group of Locks, which can be accessed by keys in accordance with the requirements for a building or site and is usually designed in consultation with the user around their particular requirements

These systems enable everyone with a “master key” access to the building when they need it but without compromising control of who gains access to what areas and when.

Master Key Systems enhance security and control staff movements by allowing staff members to enter only the areas they are authorised to access with their designated key. This system also enables authorised individuals to operate all locks within the building.

Who Uses Master Key Systems?

Master key systems are most commonly used by businesses, offices, schools, hospitals, transport yards, guest houses, hotels and residential facilities such as apartments and dormitories. They are also a favourite with landlords of multi-occupancy buildings and student accommodation.

And they don’t just provide benefits in commercial settings, master keys are ideal solutions for domestic use to allow restricted access for property maintenance contractors or access for children after school.

Businesses

Schools

Offices

Hospitals

Transport Yards

Guest Houses

Hotels

Apartments & Dorms

Multi-Occupancy Buildings

Student Accommodation

Homes

Arrange a Free Site Visit

The quickest way to get a free quote for a master key system is to arrange a site visit from our team who will be able to guide you on the best options for your master key systems based on your property and requirements.

Arrange a Visit

The Key Benefits of Master Key Systems

A master key system offers a simple yet highly effective way to manage access within a building. It allows multiple users to carry the same physical key, while still maintaining controlled access based on individual permissions.

For example, a student in accommodation might have access to shared areas like kitchens or lounges, but only be able to unlock their own bedroom or dorm. Meanwhile, a building manager or caretaker could use their master key to open every door in the building.

This flexible approach to access control makes day-to-day management far more efficient.

Why Choose a Master Key System?

Here are some of the key benefits:

Flexible Access Levels – Set permissions for different users, from limited access (e.g. a single room) to full access (e.g. site managers or maintenance teams).
Simplified Key Management – Reduce the number of keys in circulation. One key per person means less confusion, fewer lost keys, and easier replacements.
Enhanced Security – Limit access to sensitive or restricted areas and easily adjust access levels as roles change or tenants move out.
Cost-Effective – Avoid the expense of electronic systems or rekeying entire premises whenever changes are needed.
Improved Emergency Access – In case of an emergency, master keys provide authorised personnel with fast access to any area.
Customisable and Scalable – Suitable for small offices right through to large multi-site organisations or accommodation blocks.
Professional Appearance – Keeps your security organised and your team operating smoothly – essential for businesses and institutions.

Whether you’re managing an office, student halls, healthcare facility or hospitality venue, a master key system gives you control, convenience and peace of mind – all from a single, smart solution.

Complete Range of Master Key Systems at Thornhill

Frequently Asked Questions About Master Key Systems

We have pulled together some of our most frequently asked questions customers ask us when enquirying about a Master Key System.

If we have covered your question below, please feel free to call us on 0117 967 4994.

How secure is a master key?

In reality, a master key system is only as secure as how it is set up and managed. But if you work with a specialist provider like our team at Thornhill Security, then we can help create a well-designed and highly secure master key system.

These systems are engineered to allow controlled access across multiple areas while maintaining individual lock security. For extra security, key duplication can be restricted, so only authorised people can request copies.

We advise that regular audits and updates can help maintain the system security.

Is a master key system expensive?

You may assume that a master key system will be expensive. But in actual fact, they aren’t really anymore expensive than replacing a set of locks. Yes, the costs can vary depending on the size and the complexity of the system, as well as the type of locks chosen and how many access levels are required.

However, many businesses and property managers find the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment as you will save time on key management, reduce the number of keys needed and improve overall control and convenience.

If you have a budget in mind let us know when you enquire and we can aim to suggest a system to meet your budget, where possible.

What happens if a master key is lost?

Dependent on your system, if a master or grand master key is lost, or even stolen, then you may need to rekey affected locks or replace the master key structure entirely. A scenario like this highlights the importance of effective key management within a master key system structure.

Another solution if a master key is lost which avoids replacing the entire system is that we can add a side pin to your current system which will stop the existing master key from being used and re-issue a new key.

You can see how we helped a client, who had an issue with a lost master key. If you are in this situation, please reach out to our team at Thornhill Security to help assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to restore security.

Will my insurance policy be affected by a master key system?

In most cases, a professionally installed master key system should not negatively affect your insurance policy — and may even support your risk management efforts. That said, it’s always wise to notify your insurer when upgrading or altering your locks. Some policies may require locks to meet certain standards (e.g. BS3621 or TS007), which Thornhill can advise you on when designing your system.

What is the difference between a master key system and keyed alike?

A master key system allows multiple levels of access — for example, individual keys open only one lock, while a master key opens all locks in the system. This is ideal for businesses or buildings with different access requirements across teams or tenants.
Keyed alike means multiple locks can be opened with the same key — useful for simplifying access when everyone needs to open the same doors (e.g. front and back doors of a small office). It’s simpler than a master system and doesn’t offer access control by hierarchy.

At Thornhill Security, if you enquire about either of these systems but we believe that based on your requirements you would be better suited with another solution then we will always recommend what will work best.