A clear way to think about spare keys, worn keys, and access control before arranging copies. Written for Surrey, British Columbia.
Start with the hardware
A copy is only useful when the original key and the cylinder are in reasonable condition. If a key is bent, heavily worn, or only works intermittently, the issue may be the key, the cylinder, or the door alignment—not simply a shortage of copies.
Decide who needs access
Before copying keys, list the people who should currently have access. If keys are unaccounted for after a move, tenant change, or staff change, compatible hardware may be better rekeyed so older keys no longer work.
How this applies in Surrey
In Surrey, requests span houses, suites, condos, retail spaces, and commercial bays; the property type and people who need access guide the practical options. A Surrey lockout, rekey, commercial door issue, or vehicle-key problem deserves a clear plan based on the property, vehicle, and access situation.