Having duplicate keys can be very important for many different reasons. For instance, if you lose your primary set of keys, a duplicate can serve as a backup to ensure you gain access to your home, office, or car. It is also essential for businesses, especially regarding office keys. As a business owner or manager, you may need to duplicate office keys for various reasons, including providing new employees with access to the office, replacing lost keys, or creating backup keys.
Office keys are a vital component of any business. They are used to lock and secure the doors and other entry points to keep sensitive documents, confidential information, and other valuable assets safe from unauthorized access. However, the tricky part about duplicating office keys is that different offices have different rules regarding their use, so some may permit it while others may not.
Should You Duplicate Your Office Keys?
Several important factors must be considered if you are considering duplicating your office keys. First, you need to determine whether duplicating the keys is necessary. If you have lost your keys, you may need to copy them to maintain access to the office. Otherwise, you should consider whether duplicating them is a good choice because having too many copies of the same key can increase the risk of unauthorized access.
Office Keys with “Do Not Duplicate” on Them
Some office keys may have a “Do Not Duplicate” imprint as a precaution to prevent unauthorized key duplication. If your office key has this imprint, it’s best to respect it and not attempt to duplicate the key. Trying to duplicate such keys can lead to legal implications, and it is not worth the risk.
However, there’s no way to know for sure because some locksmiths may be willing to duplicate such keys, and there are also key duplication services available online that may not be as strict about honoring the “Do Not Duplicate” imprint. If you are unsure whether it’s legal to duplicate your office key, it’s best to consult your employer or a trusted locksmith to get the right advice.
What Keys Can Be Copied?
Different types of keys can be copied, including:
- Padlock leys
- Car keys
- Safe keys
- Yale Keys
- Chubb Keys
It’s worth noting that these keys are often specialized because they are designed to fit specific types of locks. For example, Yale keys are commonly used for residential and commercial doors, while Chubb keys are typically used for higher-security applications such as safes and vaults. You must ensure that you have the correct key for your specific lock to ensure that it operates correctly and provides the level of security you need. Additionally, you must keep your keys secure and only give copies to trusted individuals as necessary to prevent unauthorized access to your property.
What Keys Can You Not Duplicate?
There are some keys that you cannot duplicate. These are known as restricted keys. Restricted keys are keys that are specially designed to prevent unauthorized duplication. They are often used in high-security environments such as government buildings, banks, and other sensitive locations.
Restricted keys are usually stamped with “Do Not Duplicate” or “Restricted.” Attempting to duplicate these keys can lead to legal consequences. If you need a duplicate of a restricted key, you must contact the key manufacturer and provide proof of ownership or authorization.
Can You Make a Duplicate Key from Another Duplicate Key?
It is possible to copy a key from another duplicate key. However, the quality of the third-generation key will be lower than the original key. This is because each time a key is duplicated, the quality and accuracy of the key can be slightly compromised. For this reason, making a duplicate key from the original key is recommended to ensure the best quality.
Duplicating your office keys is a common practice to ensure multiple people access the same space. However, some offices have strict regulations on key duplication, so you must check with your employer or building management before making copies. This way, you can get a quality duplicate without breaking the rules or compromising your workplace’s security.
Lockworks Unlimited can help if you need locksmiths in Redwood City! We provide comprehensive locksmithing services, including key duplication, lock installation, and lock rekeying, all for fair prices. Fill up our contact form today to get a quote!