One Key, Right Access
Stop carrying a ring of 20 keys. A master key system gives each person one key that opens exactly the doors they need — and gives the owner one key that opens everything. We design and install them for businesses, churches, schools and rental properties across the Midlands.
Serving homes & businesses across the Midlands
Hardware rated for heavy daily traffic, fire codes and ADA requirements.
Before-hours and after-hours appointments so your doors keep trading.
Itemized quotes for owners, managers and property companies.
Licensed in South Carolina, insured, and happy to provide a certificate of insurance.
Master Key Systems
In a master key system, each lock accepts two or more keys: its own individual key (the “change key”) and one or more master keys above it. A cleaner might carry a key that opens every office on one floor, a manager a key that opens the whole building, and each tenant or employee a key that opens only their own door.
The key chart is the heart of the system. It records which key opens which door, so when someone leaves or a key goes missing you can rekey just the affected doors without disturbing everyone else. We keep the chart on file and can expand the system as your building grows.
For extra control, master key systems can be built on restricted keyways. That means the keys cannot be copied at a hardware store, so you always know how many exist.
How It Works
Planned on paper before a single pin is changed.
We list every door and who needs access to it — staff, managers, cleaners, tenants.
We build a key hierarchy so each group gets exactly the access it needs.
Every lock is pinned to the chart and keys are labelled and issued to you.
What We Cover
Testimonials
Real Google reviews from customers across Columbia and the Midlands.
“Abel was quick and fast didn’t have to wait 30 minutes to an hour . If ever in need of an locksmith contact Abel metro locksmith very speedy nice and reasonable.”
“Came very fast and got my keys out in seconds !”
“Car keys replacement for my Car !! Excellent job!!”
“That got my truck unlocked in a pinch”
“Professional and quick, and curteous”
“On time & fast service!!!!!”
“I can honestly say that I was ever pleased with his service and the prompt of them arriving. Also, he made sure that everything worked properly before leaving. His workmanship really was a relief in a frustrating situation made better. I recommend.”
“I had a problem with my car keys l called metro locksmith and they arrived within minutes very professional and affordable.”
“The tech was very knowledgeable and and fast, excellent service”
“Great guy made a key for my truck with a active alarm”
“Fast and efficient! Won't call anyone else!”
“Very good service”
“Fast service”
“Buen servicio ❤️”
“Muy buen servicio”
Have a Question?
Usually, yes, if the locks are in good condition and use compatible cylinders. We rekey them to the new chart instead of replacing hardware.
We rekey the doors that key opened. With a well-designed chart, that doesn’t mean rekeying the entire building.
Not if the system uses restricted keys. Copies can then only be made through us with your authorisation.
As many as your building needs — commonly a grand master, section masters and individual door keys.
Yes. We keep the key chart on file so the system can be maintained and expanded later.
It depends on the number of doors and whether hardware needs replacing. We give you a written quote after mapping the building.
Related Services
Storefronts, offices and property: locks, panic bars and master keys.
Keep your existing locks and retire the old keys — ideal after a move.
Pick-, bump- and drill-resistant locks with keys that can’t be copied.
Accurate key cutting and spare keys for homes, businesses and vehicles.
Service Areas
Same technicians, same 24/7 line, same upfront pricing in every town we serve.
Master key systems designed and installed for businesses, churches and rental properties across Columbia and the Midlands.
CALL NOW · (803) 414-2260
24/7 — a locksmith on the way in minutes
