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Kwikset SmartKeys Vs. Regular Locks

As a locksmith I have used and repaired  Kwikset SmartKey locks. Occasionally folks ask me which type of lock I recommend, SmartKey locks or "regular" locks. My honest answer is that it depends. However, before I tout my own personal opinion I believe it is prudent to list several of the PROs and CONs first;

The biggest PRO is that you can literally rekey the lock yourself in less than 30 seconds. Probably 10 seconds to be honest with you. It's that simple. If you have high turnover rates these locks can save you tremendous amounts of time and money. They are also simple to use and easily install like regular house locks.

The biggest CONs are their durability and dependability. Kwikset's states on their website that they are drill resistant and pick resistant, but I've drilled them and I've picked them. You will need to purchase their ANSI grade 1 version (not sold in stores) if you want these added protections. But be advised, commercial locks almost triple in price compared to residential locks. Also, you cannot add a master key to this system. You will need to buy the more expensive key control version if you want this option. Lastly, I must add that in order to replace a lost key you will need to purchase a "cradle" that is sold separately.

My own personal preference is that I do not recommend these locks for large complexes with multiple units. Inevitably it is cheaper in the long run to invest in a more universal and guaranteed lock design. Case in point...Schlage, another leading lock brand, used to boast a similar rekey system several years ago called SecureKey. It has since been discontinued and is impossible to find parts for. You probably haven't heard of it because it was a momentous flop. But if you have one of their locks good luck.

In closing I will add that if you manage only one home, or a few units, this lock may be the perfect solution for you. They do provide routine and ample protection, and they do meet or exceed ANSI grade 3 standards for residential use.

Daria,

Yes, I have heard of, and have used, the Kwikset SmartKey locks. However, before I tout my personal opinion I believe it is necessary to list several of the pros and cons first;

The biggest PRO is that you can literally rekey the lock yourself in less than 30 seconds. So if you have a high turnover rate this saves tremendously. They are also simple to use and easily install like regular house locks.

The biggest CONs are their durability and dependability. Kwikset's boast on their website that they are drill resistant and pick resistant, but I've drilled them and I've picked them. You will need to purchase their ANSI grade 1 locks (not sold in stores) if you want that added protection. Commercial locks almost triple in price compared to residential locks. Also, you cannot add a master key should you ever decide you want to do so. Only one key works at a time in these locks. Lastly, if the key is lost you will need to buy a a "cradle" in order to reset the cylinder.

My own personal preference is that I do not recommend these locks for large complexes with multiple units. Inevitably it is cheaper to go with a more universal lock that is cheaper to maintain. Schlage had a similiar rekey system about five years ago that has since been discontinued and impossible to find parts for. But if you're manage only a small number of units with ideal tenants these locks are the perfect solution for any home. They do meet or exceed ANSI grade 3 standards for residential use. Hope this helps.

"Utility & Mailman Access Requirements For San Diego & Orange County"

Attention managers and owners. If you are currently designing or installing a new fence PLEASE, STOP what you are doing and read this post now.

Fences by their very nature are designed to keep people out, bring comfort, and relieve stress. But if you don't plan carefully you may just end up exposing yourself to headaches and costly additions.

1. Mailmail Access. The United States Postal Service (USPS), by direction of the Constitution and Congress, is the only authorized provider of First Class Mail in the US. Therefore, they are the only people who can legally deliver letters to mailboxes. In order to accomplish their mission they require unfettered access to mailboxes everywhere, no exceptions. Either you comply or you get no mail. If your mailboxes are outside the fence line then you really have no problems and everything is good to go. If not, you will need to install a USPS approved key box, or an electronic switch that is guarded by a USPS approved lock.

2. Meter Access. The San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) Co. oversees much of the power supply for Southern California. In order to properly service and maintain their utilities all clients throughtout San Diego and Orange Country must comply with SDG&E access requirements. If a meter is being blocked by a gate or a door then it must have an SDG&E approved lock installed, no exceptions. If you did not plan for a gate or a door then a gate or a door must be installed as well. SDG&E is currently working on a plan to upgrade all of its readers to a digital network it can monitor remotely, but for now your meter must remain accessible to the gas man.

As a locksmith I can attest first hand to the costly alterations owners and managers have had to implement due to these unfamiliar requirements. You should also consider who else may need access in the future so that you can plan accordingly. A good plan is essential to saving you time and money.

Greetings! My name is Mike.

As a locksmith I've encountered a variety of routine service calls, but I've also responded to a few not so routine service calls. While the idea of security seems simple enough, making sure you buy the right lock or install the right door usually requires a bit more work than initially anticipated. So I plan to post information, tips, and sage advice that will hopefully save you time and money. I wish everyone the best of luck in your future real estate endeavors!

Take care, and stay safe.