Billings, MT · Since 1982
Commercial Rekeying and Master Key Systems in Billings, MT
An employee leaves, a tenant moves out, a key goes missing. Rekeying puts the building back under your control the same day, and a master key system keeps it that way. We come to you, work from the van, and leave you with records you can actually use.
When a Billings business needs rekeying
Rekeying changes the pins inside an existing lock so the old keys stop working and a new key takes over. The hardware stays; only the key changes. It costs a fraction of replacing locks, and for most commercial doors it is the right fix.
- An employee, contractor, or cleaning crew no longer works for you
- A tenant moved out and you do not know how many copies exist
- A key ring was lost or stolen
- You bought or leased a building and the previous owner kept keys
- After a break-in, even if the lock still works
- Too many keys float around and nobody knows who has what
How a master key system works
A master key system lets one key open every door a manager needs while each tenant or employee key opens only its own door. We design the system on paper first: which doors, who needs access to which, and how much room the system needs to grow. Then we pin every cylinder to match and hand you a chart of who holds what.
Larger buildings get more than one level. A grand master opens the whole property, a master opens one building or floor, and change keys open single doors. Apartment complexes, offices with several suites, churches, schools, and medical practices all run on this pattern.
If key copying is the problem, we can move your important doors to a restricted keyway. Those key blanks are not sold at hardware stores, so a key cannot be copied without your authorization. A stamp that says do not duplicate is a request; a restricted keyway is a rule.
What to expect on the day
Doug or Quincy arrives in the van with the pinning kits and the key machine, so rekeying is done on site and new keys are cut while we are there. Most rekeys are finished in one visit. We keep a record of your system so the next change, a year from now, takes a phone call instead of a fresh survey.
Our service call starts at $65 plus parts and labor, and we quote before we start. All of our work is guaranteed.
- Schlage, Kwikset, Adams Rite, and most commercial cylinders
- Keyed-alike groups for gates, padlocks, and storage
- New keys cut on site, stamped with your system numbers
- Records kept for future additions and changes
Related services
5.0 stars on Google
What your Billings neighbors are saying
★★★★★I needed to have a lock changed at a property I have listed. I called and they answered right away. They were responsive, available, speedy and very professional. I was very impressed. I have and will continue to refer them to my clients.
Kathleen Candelaria, Billings, MT
★★★★★I can't recommend Independent Lock strongly enough! They have helped me rekey new businesses, installed key pads, got me back into my house (on more than one occasion!), and cut keys on the spot. This locally owned business is one I always trust!
Erica Schuppe, Cody, WY
★★★★★They are awesome! We couldn't get our key out of the door and they came and fixed it for us within a half hour. They also helped us fix another lock that was a security issue. I give them 10/10!
Ashlee Callihan
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to rekey a business in Billings?
Our service call starts at $65, plus parts and labor for each lock. The technician quotes the full job before starting. Rekeying is usually far cheaper than replacing locks because your existing hardware stays in place.
Should I rekey or replace my locks?
Rekey when the hardware is in good shape and you just need old keys to stop working. Replace when the lock is worn, damaged, or the wrong grade for the door. We will tell you which one your doors need.
How long does it take?
A typical small office or storefront is done in one visit. Larger master key systems are planned first, then pinned door by door, usually within a day or two depending on the number of cylinders.
Can one key open every door in my building?
Yes. That is what a master key system does: your master opens everything, and each employee or tenant key opens only what it should. We keep the chart so you always know who can open what.
How do I stop employees from copying keys?
Move your important doors to a restricted keyway. The blanks are controlled, so nobody can cut a copy without your authorization. Ask us which doors are worth it; often it is only the exterior and office doors.