Running a Pakenham business means managing keys. Staff leave, keys go missing, contractors get temporary access. When and how often should you rekey? Here is how we think about it.
When to rekey immediately
A key holder leaves the business unexpectedly. Doesn't matter if they left on good terms - rekey. The cost of a rekey is much less than the cost of a break-in by someone who knows your business.
A key goes missing and you cannot definitely account for it. Same principle.
You buy a business and inherit the existing locks. You have no idea who has copies.
When to rekey routinely
Quarterly review of who has keys to what. If staff turnover has happened, rekey. Most Pakenham businesses with regular staff turnover should rekey at least annually as a baseline.
What rekeying costs
Per lock: $40 to $70 if done as part of a multi-lock visit. Travel and minimum charge often add another $80 to $120. For a small business with 4 locks, expect $250 to $400 for a full rekey.
The smarter approach: master key systems
If you have 5 or more doors and rotating staff, a restricted master key system pays for itself. Initial install $1,500 to $3,000. Then replacement keys are $30 to $50 each, only ordered from authorised dealers (which means staff cannot copy them at Bunnings).
With a master key system, you do not rekey when staff change. You just collect their key and issue it to the next person, or change the master key for that specific level if needed.
Access control as the next step
For larger businesses, electronic access control (PIN pads, swipe cards, or fobs) replaces physical keys entirely. Cost $1,500 to $4,000 per door for a basic system, much more for monitored. You can remove access for a departing employee in seconds rather than coordinating a locksmith visit.
What we recommend for small Pakenham businesses
Under 3 doors and stable staff: just rekey as needed. Cheap and easy.
3 to 10 doors and some staff turnover: restricted master key system. Best balance of security and convenience.
10+ doors and high turnover: electronic access control. Worth the upfront investment.
For all of these, the worst option is doing nothing and assuming the locks are fine. By the time you find out someone has a key they shouldn't, it is usually too late.