How Often Should Commercial Locks Be Replaced or Upgraded?

Locks wear down. Keys get lost. And security threats evolve. But how do you know when it’s time to replace or upgrade your commercial locks? Waiting until a break-in or malfunction happens is too late.

At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we help Phoenix businesses stay ahead of security risks by routinely evaluating and upgrading locks to meet modern safety and compliance standards.

Time to upgrade your locks? View our Phoenix commercial locksmith services

General Rule of Thumb

Most commercial-grade locks should be evaluated every 3–5 years, and replaced when
They show wear
A key has been lost or stolen
The security level no longer meets your needs
Technology upgrades are available
You’ve had staffing changes or security incidents

Signs It’s Time to Replace a Commercial Lock

The lock is sticking, jamming, or turning rough
You’ve experienced a break-in or forced entry
The key turns too easily or feels loose
Employees report access issues
Lock hardware is visibly rusted, cracked, or broken
You’ve lost track of who has a key
The current lock doesn’t meet current fire or ADA codes

When to Upgrade Instead of Just Replace

Security needs have increased
You’ve expanded or changed access protocols
You want to move to keyless entry or access control
You’re tired of managing keys and rekeying manually
You want tracking/audit features for compliance or HR reasons

Recommended Timeline by Lock Type

Deadbolts & Cylinders:
Inspect yearly, replace every 5–7 years or after any attempted break-in.

Lever locks & knobs:
Check tension and operation yearly. Replace if the mechanism weakens or loosens.

Panic hardware & exit devices:
Replace every 7–10 years or after heavy use in high-traffic areas.

Smart locks & keypads:
Update firmware as needed. Replace batteries regularly. Upgrade the system every 4–6 years to ensure compatibility and security.

Access control systems:
Evaluate every 2–3 years. Upgrade software, hardware, or credentials as needed for compliance or scaling.

Who Should Prioritize Regular Lock Upgrades?

Retail stores with employee turnover
Medical offices with patient privacy concerns
Warehouses and distribution centers
Commercial offices with sensitive data
Restaurants, gyms, and public-facing businesses
Schools, daycares, and non-profits

Areas We Serve in Phoenix

We inspect, replace, and upgrade commercial locks in
Downtown Phoenix
Maryvale
Ahwatukee
Arcadia
Camelback East
Biltmore
South and North Phoenix
And throughout Maricopa County

Stay Secure and Up to Date

Outdated locks are one of the weakest links in commercial security. We’ll help you assess your current hardware, recommend smarter solutions, and install replacements quickly—without disrupting your operations.

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

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