However, when it comes to certain elements of security, owners may have questions. One of those is how often they should rekey their business. That’s the topic of today’s post.

Understanding Rekeying

Wait, rekeying? Is that even important? Before we get into the ideal frequency, you should first be aware of what rekeying entails. Basically, it involves the altering of internal components of a lock so that it can only be operated by a new key. This is different from replacing the entire lock mechanism and allows you to maintain existing hardware while upping your security level. 

Factors Influencing Rekeying Frequency

Each business situation is different, with factors like location and employee turnover having a big impact on the ideal rekeying frequency. Here are a few of the most common factors that you should consider when it comes to rekeying frequency:

• Employee turnover: does your business have an unusually high turnover rate? Many fast-food restaurants and retail establishments fall into this category. If employees come and go frequently at your business, you need to maintain control over who has access to your premises. Rekeying after a certain number of employees have moved on will ensure they can’t gain unauthorized entry to their former place of employment.
• Lost or stolen keys: if an employee loses their key or if a key is stolen, this is another time when it’s ideal to rekey, as it poses a significant security risk. Even if the key is recovered, there’s no way to guarantee that it hasn’t been duplicated during the time it was missing. 
• Security breaches: having a location in an area of town with higher crime rates is another reason to rekey more consistently. This is especially true if your business has had security breaches in the past. It’s important to reassess your security measures regularly and rekey often in these cases.
• Routine maintenance: you might also notice the need for rekeying during regular maintenance inspections. Even if you don’t have high employee turnover, lost keys or security breaches, there should still be a consistent schedule for rekeying.

Recommended Rekeying Schedule

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should rekey your business, a proactive approach to security is vital. Consider performing an annual assessment of your security protocols and include proactive measures for whenever there are employee changes or security incidents. As a rule of thumb, we recommend you rekey your business at least once or twice a year to prevent unwanted security issues.

Again, the frequency of rekeying your business depends on varying factors such as employee turnover, security incidents and routine maintenance. But if you stay proactive and vigilant, you can ensure that your business remains secure and protected. If you’re ready to have us assess your security situation or need for rekeying, contact A-1 Locksmith today.

If you haven’t audited your business’ security in a while, here are some reasons why a commercial rekeying service might be in order.

Signs You Need Commercial Rekeying

If you haven’t rekeyed your business in a while, that’s a good sign it’s time to do so! Regular rekeying services should be part of your business operations for security reasons alone. But let’s get into some other specific signs and symptoms that a commercial rekeying is needed:

• You’ve lost the key to one of your access points (door, safe, etc.).
• You’re not sure where all copies of your keys are located (and who has them).
• A former disgruntled employee might still have a key.
• You’ve had one or more break-ins recently; or, you’re in an area with higher crime.
• You don’t have peace of mind about your business security.

Benefits of Commercial Rekeying

With a commercial rekeying service, a professional locksmith will replace all of the keys and locks in your business (or the ones you want them to, anyway). It’s recommended to do this every six months to a year, but no more than every three years. Here are some of the benefits that come with these commercial rekeying services:

• More advanced security due to better technology and production methods.
• Convenience (especially if you upgrade to a smart, combination or video lock). 
• Better control over who has access to different rooms.
• More peace of mind about working locks with limited key access.

Finding the Best Commercial Rekeying Service

The only question is, how do you find the best company to handle the commercial rekeying? For starters, they need to offer the service—many locksmith companies will only specialize in residential or auto locksmith services. Next, they need to be reputable, with many customer reviews, a professional website and professional uniforms and vehicles. Anything that proves they were there before your business and will be there after. Finally, just talking to your prospects will give you a sense of their dedication to customer service and professionalism. Do your research and talk to several potential companies.

If you’re thinking about a commercial rekeying service, you can trust the team at A-1 Locksmith. Contact us today or visit any of our DFW-area locations for advice, products and more.