Locks to Check When You Lease a New Office

Moving into a new office or shop is busy enough without thinking about locks. But a commercial space usually comes with a history: previous tenants, cleaners, contractors and property managers may all have had keys. A short check in the first week saves headaches later.

Find Out Who Has Keys

Ask the landlord or property manager which keys exist, who holds them, and whether the locks were changed after the last tenant. Read the lock clause in your lease too. Many leases say whether you may change locks and whether the landlord needs a copy.

Rekey the Exterior Doors

Rekeying changes the pins so old keys stop working, without replacing the hardware. It is usually the fastest way to start with a clean slate.

Check That Every Door Latches

Commercial doors take heavy use. Test that each exterior door closes and latches on its own. A door that rests against the frame without latching is an open door after hours.

Look at Exit Hardware

Push bars and exit devices should release easily and spring back. Check local building and fire code requirements for exit doors before changing anything.

Plan Who Gets Which Key

If staff need access to different areas, a master key system or a keypad can make management easier and cut down on keys walking out the door.

Choice City Locksmith provides commercial locksmith service in Fort Collins and across Northern Colorado. Phone (970) 803-1100.