Quick answer:
- Rekey or change access the day you take over the space.
- Separate access for sensitive rooms (server, records, supply).
- Plan a key hierarchy before problems force you to.
1. Take Control on Day One
Just like a new home, a new office should be rekeyed the moment you take possession. The previous tenant, their staff, the property manager, cleaners, and contractors may all hold keys. Rekeying (or changing electronic access) on day one ensures only your people can get in — the same logic as our new-home checklist, applied to commercial space.
2. Map Who Needs What
List your doors and decide who should open each: main entry, suite door, private offices, supply, server/IT, records, and back-of-house. Most offices benefit from a master key system — managers carry one key, staff carry change keys limited to their areas. Plan this hierarchy before you pin anything; retrofitting a messy system later is the expensive path.
3. Lock Down Sensitive Rooms
Server rooms, records storage, HR files, and supply closets deserve stronger control than a general office door. Consider restricted-keyway high-security locks (keys that can’t be copied at a hardware store) or keypad access control so you can grant and revoke entry without rekeying.
4. Plan for Turnover and Exits
Decide now how you’ll handle staff changes — a quick rekey when a keyholder leaves, or code changes on electronic doors. And confirm your exit doors meet life-safety code (people must always be able to get out fast). We handle office security end to end across the metro — from Downtown to the San Mateo corridor. Call (505) 818-0720 for a walkthrough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we really need to rekey a leased office?
Yes — you can’t know how many keys the previous tenant and their vendors held. Rekeying on move-in is inexpensive insurance and is standard practice.
What’s the benefit of a master key system in an office?
Managers carry one key for everything while staff open only their areas, and turnover means re-issuing one change key instead of redoing the whole building. It scales cleanly.
Can you work in an occupied office without disruption?
Yes. We schedule around your hours and can work in occupied spaces with minimal disruption, including before/after hours.
Need a locksmith in Albuquerque? Call Just In Time Locksmith at (505) 818-0720 for fast, local, upfront-priced service — or request service online. 24/7 across the metro.