How to Safeguard Your Commercial Property with a Lock Maintenance Schedule
A neglected lock can lead to costly repairs, security risks, and downtime. Whether you manage a retail store, office building, or multi-tenant complex, implementing a lock maintenance schedule is essential to keeping your property secure and operational.
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we help Phoenix businesses develop and implement routine lock maintenance plans that ensure the longevity and functionality of all your locks and access systems.
Need help with lock maintenance? View our Phoenix commercial locksmith services
Why Regular Lock Maintenance is Crucial
Locks are exposed to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Failure to maintain them can result in
Breakdowns: Locks can become hard to turn, sticky, or jammed.
Security threats: Old locks are easier to pick or bypass.
Inconvenience: A malfunctioning lock can result in lost time, frustrated staff, and even a potential lockout.
With a regular maintenance schedule, you can spot problems early, prevent disruptions, and protect your business from vulnerabilities.
Steps to Create an Effective Lock Maintenance Schedule
1. Identify All Locks That Need Maintenance
Start by making a list of all locks in your building, including
Entry doors
Storage rooms
Elevators and common areas
Cabinet locks
Panic bars and emergency exit doors
Safes and vaults
Note which locks are used most frequently and which might need more attention, such as high-security areas.
2. Schedule Routine Inspections
Routine inspections are critical for spotting wear and tear early.
Inspect locks every 6 months (or more often, depending on usage) to check for
Signs of wear (rust, corrosion, broken components)
Loose screws or hardware
Misalignment or malfunctioning locks
The ability of the key to smoothly turn in the lock
Automatic door closers and panic bars for proper functionality
3. Lubricate and Clean Locks Regularly
Commercial locks should be cleaned and lubricated to prevent them from sticking, jamming, or rusting.
Lubricate locks every 6 months with graphite powder or a dry lubricant (avoid oil-based lubricants, which can attract dirt and grime).
Clean locks to remove dirt or debris, which can cause friction and wear.
4. Test Security Systems
Test electronic locks, smart locks, and access control systems regularly. Ensure
The access control system is properly syncing with the locks
There are no malfunctions or delayed responses in keyless entry
Battery-powered locks have charged batteries
You are able to unlock all doors remotely, if applicable
5. Update Keys and Codes
If keys are lost or security is compromised, take immediate action to
Rekey locks and update access codes
Deauthorize lost or stolen keycards, fobs, or codes
Ensure key control is properly managed to prevent unauthorized duplication or distribution
6. Perform Emergency Lock Checks
Test emergency exit doors and panic bars to ensure
They open without obstruction in case of an emergency
They meet fire code regulations
Exit hardware operates as expected under pressure or high-traffic conditions
How Often Should You Schedule Lock Maintenance?
It’s important to maintain a schedule based on the level of activity in your business. For most businesses, the following should apply:
Every 6 months: Standard locks, high-traffic areas, and common access doors.
Every 3 months: High-security areas, electronic systems, and external entry points.
Annually: Deep inspections for older buildings, compliance checks for fire and safety codes.
For larger businesses with a higher volume of keys and locks, consider quarterly inspections to ensure that everything stays in optimal condition.
Who Should Implement a Lock Maintenance Schedule?
Property managers for commercial buildings
Office building managers
Retail business owners
Medical facilities and clinics
Multi-tenant complexes
Schools and educational institutions
Manufacturing plants or warehouses
Areas We Serve in Phoenix
We provide lock maintenance services throughout
Downtown Phoenix
Ahwatukee
Maryvale
Arcadia
Camelback East
Biltmore
North and South Phoenix
And all of Maricopa County
Protect Your Property’s Locks—Before They Fail
Proactively maintaining your locks helps you avoid costly repairs and downtime. Let us help you create a lock maintenance schedule that ensures your business remains secure and functional all year long.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
(602) 854-2766
affordablesecurityphoenix.com
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Need help maintaining your locks?
Let our Phoenix commercial locksmiths develop a lock maintenance plan tailored to your business