An unreturned key does not mean misuse, but it does mean your key records no longer match the keys in circulation, so work out what it opens first.
The laptop is back. The email account is closed. The office key is still "probably in a drawer somewhere."
That leaves an access question.
An unreturned key does not tell you that somebody intends to misuse it. It does tell you that your key records and the keys in circulation no longer match.
The next step is to understand what the missing key opens and decide how to restore control.
Before changing hardware, identify the affected doors.
Does the key open one office, the main entrance, a stockroom, or several areas? Was it issued individually or as part of a wider system?
Our commercial locksmith service can assess the physical access arrangement with the authorized business or property representative.
Review the key issue log, any identifying number, and the original access plan.
If you do not know which locks the key operates, say so. Guessing can leave an affected door unchanged.
Rekeying may be appropriate when you want an existing key to stop operating compatible locks that are otherwise in good condition.
It can also be worth reviewing access when keys have been passed between staff without clear records.
Our lock rekeying service can assess which cylinders need attention.
Not necessarily.
The scope depends on the missing key's access and how the system is configured. A key for one independent office is different from a key that operates multiple business entrances.
For a master-keyed system, have the arrangement assessed before changing individual cylinders.
Worn, damaged, or unsuitable hardware may need replacement instead of, or alongside, rekeying.
Our rekey versus replacement guide explains the distinction.
A key-control problem and a failing lock can exist at the same time. The visit should account for both.
Decide who will authorize the work, who needs new keys, and when the doors can be tested.
Consider opening staff, cleaners, contractors, and anyone else with legitimate access.
Arrange distribution of replacement keys and collect superseded ones where possible. A changed lock should not become the next morning's surprise.
If the affected door belongs to a managed building, involve the landlord or property manager.
Your business's office door and the building's main entrance may fall under different access arrangements.
A simple register should identify who received a key, what it opens, and when it was returned.
For compatible systems, additional key cutting can be assessed alongside authorization requirements. If tighter duplication control is needed, ask about an appropriate restricted system.
Include physical keys, alarm credentials, and electronic access in the business's offboarding process. Each needs its own check.
Call 604-227-9083 with the affected doors, known lock details, and your access concerns, or request an appointment.
You do not need a dramatic story to review your locks. "We can no longer account for this key" is a useful place to start.
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