Rekeying vs. Master Keying: Which Is Right for Your Phoenix Property?

When it comes to securing your property, one size doesn’t always fit all. Whether you own a home in Desert Ridge, manage a triplex in Willo, or run short-term rentals in Arcadia Lite, understanding the difference between rekeying and master keying is critical.

Both offer control, convenience, and better access management—but they serve different purposes. So how do you know which one is right for you?

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, the benefits of each, and how rekeying services in Phoenix can support both options, depending on your goals.

What Is Rekeying?

Rekeying involves adjusting the internal pin configuration of a lock so that it no longer works with the old key and now responds to a new one. It’s ideal for:

• New homeowners
• Landlords between tenants
• Lost or stolen keys
• Roommate or staff changes
• Peace of mind after a break-in

You keep your hardware—it’s just the key that changes. Rekeying is especially popular for single-family homes in neighborhoods like Encanto, Alhambra, and Deer Valley.

What Is Master Keying?

Master keying is the process of creating a key hierarchy, allowing multiple locks to be operated by different keys—but also by a single master key.

For example:

• Tenant A can only open their unit
• Tenant B can only open theirs
• The property manager has one master key that opens both

This system is commonly used in:

• Multi-unit properties
• Apartment complexes
• Commercial buildings
• Duplexes, triplexes, or fourplexes
• Airbnb or VRBO properties with private guest suites

In growing Phoenix neighborhoods like Midtown, Biltmore, and South Phoenix, master keying offers landlords and property managers added convenience and control.

Key Differences Between Rekeying and Master Keying

Feature	Rekeying	Master Keying
Removes old access	✅ Yes	✅ Yes (for individual units)
One key for all doors	❌ No (unless rekeyed to match)	✅ Yes (master key only)
Ideal for single-family home	✅ Yes	❌ Not necessary
Ideal for multi-unit property	✅ Sometimes	✅ Yes (highly effective)
Cost	💰 Lower	💰💰 Slightly higher
Setup time	⚡ Fast	⏱️ Moderate

Pros and Cons of Rekeying

✅ Pros:

• Cost-effective
• Fast to complete
• Perfect for home buyers, sellers, or security upgrades
• Helps reduce unauthorized access

⚠️ Cons:

• Doesn’t allow key hierarchy
• Not ideal for multi-unit access
• Each lock needs a separate key unless manually matched

Pros and Cons of Master Keying

✅ Pros:

• Ideal for landlords, offices, and property managers
• Reduces keyring bulk
• Simplifies emergency or maintenance access
• Allows tenants to maintain privacy

⚠️ Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than standard rekeying
• More complex setup (requires detailed key mapping)
• May require ongoing updates as tenants or units change

Use Case Examples

🔑 Rekeying Use Case – New Homeowner in Phoenix

You just moved into a home in Sunnyslope. The seller gave you keys, but you don’t know who else had a copy. Rekeying gives you a fresh start, resets all access, and makes you the only person with working keys.

🔑 Master Keying Use Case – Multi-Unit Rental in Midtown

You own a triplex with three tenants. You want each to have privacy, but you also want one key to open all units for emergencies, repairs, or inspections. A master key system keeps things secure and organized.

🔑 Mixed Use – Airbnb with Separate Guest Suites

You’re renting out two private Airbnb suites in your home near Grand Avenue. Guests get keys to their rooms only, but you retain a master key for emergencies and resets. It’s the perfect hybrid solution.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choose Rekeying if:

• You own a single-family home
• You just moved in
• Someone moved out and you want to remove access
• You want all exterior locks to match one key
• Your budget is tight but you still want stronger security

Choose Master Keying if:

• You own or manage multi-unit properties
• You need access to all units
• You want to reduce the number of keys you carry
• You need flexibility for tenants, guests, or staff
• You want a long-term access strategy

If you’re unsure, our locksmiths can inspect your setup and recommend the best solution based on your locks, goals, and property type.

How Much Does Each Cost?

• Rekeying per lock: Typically $15–$25
• Master keying: Varies depending on number of locks, levels of access, and configuration complexity
• Multi-property discounts available for landlords or investors with multiple sites across Phoenix

We’ve helped property owners in neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row, Central City South, and Maryvale set up both rekeying and master key systems—tailored to their needs and budgets.

Rekeying + Master Keying Combo

In many cases, you don’t have to choose just one.

You can rekey all locks to remove old access, then build a new master key system on top of it. This works great for property managers in areas like Eastlake Park, Camelback East, and Arcadia with short- and long-term tenants rotating throughout the year.

Need help maintaining your system as tenants change? We offer ongoing support and scheduling.

Let’s Talk About Your Locks

Whether you’re managing one home or ten, protecting access is essential. Don’t let old keys or disorganized access put your property or tenants at risk.

At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we’re proud to offer:

• Residential rekeying
• Master key system design and setup
• Smart lock support and integration
• Service across all Phoenix neighborhoods
• Transparent pricing and fast response times

Click here to get started with our Phoenix rekeying service—and we’ll help you decide if a master key setup is the better long-term fit.

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Key Control = Peace of Mind
Whether you’re securing your own home or managing a property portfolio, the right lock system matters. Let our Phoenix locksmiths rekey, master key, or customize a plan that fits your goals.

Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
📞 (602) 854-2766
🌐 affordablesecurityphoenix.com