Patented Key Systems
A fully patent protected key system is a high security key platform that prevents unauthorised keys being issued. It’s the simplest way to keep a master key system under your control.Do not be fooled with cheaper systems quoting 'restricted' this has no legal protection from duplication
- Unique patented key profile designed to stop unauthorised key copying.
- Clear authorisation process for ordering additional keys.
- Documented suite for re-orders, future expansion, and audits.
Trusted master key system support
Speak to an MLA accredited locksmith team with in-house planning, documented suite records, and practical support before and after installation.
Master locksmiths with BSI accreditation
MLA approved locksmiths, BSI certified key systems, and independently audited security standards.
Quick efficient and keys worked without any problems, and it was more economical than some online key cutting services
Peter Bainbridge
This is the third time I have used Lock and Key and each time they have been extremely helpful and always met my requirements. Once you use keyed alike you really appreciate not having to carry muliple keys around with you.
Ged McConville
Easy to navigate website and ordering if you have the information required. Packed well and fast delivery. 1st class service. Highly recommend this company.
Sandra Thorn
What is the difference between patented and restricted keys?
A restricted key system uses a key profile that is only issued to a certain group of dealers, however there is no legal protection preventing any of those dealers from copying the keys. For full key control you need a patented system.
What is an 'open' profile system?
Open profile means the key blanks are available to any key cutting service, they are only suitable for low security environments where duplication is not a concern.
Why patented profiles matter for master key systems
A master key system is only as controllable as the keys circulating in the real world. Patented profiles and controlled key blanks help you keep the suite secure.
Keys are designed to prevent unauthorised duplication by using a patented key profile.
Clear authorisation and re-order references support stronger internal processes. Pair this with a written policy for best results.
Read key control policiesExpanding the suite, adding different types of locks IE Padlocks, euro cylinders, oval cylinders, rim cylinders, cam locks and Scandinavian cylinders.
How to expand an existing suiteWho uses patented key systems
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Hospitals & NHS Estates
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Local Authorities
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Schools & Colleges
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Universities
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Build-to-Rent (BTR)
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Housing Associations
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Facilities Management Companies
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Commercial Buildings
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
Care Homes & Social Housing
Example hierarchies, key control guidance, and how restricted keys reduce risk in day-to-day operations.
How we deliver restricted master key suites
The key platform is only part of it. The suite has to be designed properly, pinned accurately, tested, and documented so it stays manageable.
Process
Define groups: staff, contractors, cleaners, services, emergency access.
GMK/MK/CK structure with cylinder specification and numbering.
Pinned, checked, and validated against the plan before handover.
Re-order references, authorisation guidance, and expansion support.
Related system types
Restricted keys are usually paired with the right hierarchy design and operational key control. In higher-risk sites, consider high-security or hybrid access control options.
Restricted key systems: common questions
Open the sections you need.
Can you upgrade or expand an existing master key system? ⌄
What happens if a master key is lost? ⌄
How do extra keys get authorised and ordered? ⌄
Do restricted keys work with high-security or hybrid systems? ⌄
Need restricted keys on a master key system?
Send a door list (or tell us the size of the site). We’ll propose a controlled hierarchy, specify cylinders, and quote supply and install.
Prefer to talk?
Phone: 01296 752080
Email: info@lockandkey.co.uk
See how your whole system connects
Explore your keys, groups and communal doors in a visual system map. See expected access connections, give people the keys they need, and manage orders and permissions in one secure place.
You decide who gets the keys.
An order outside someone’s access comes to you for approval. Check who is ordering, where the keys are going and exactly what they requested. Approve it when it checks out, or deny it when it doesn’t.
Pair these approvals with PREM 4, our usual patented keyway, for control over key supply as well as who can order. Every decision leaves a record in your system’s history.
Already have TSR or HMJ keys? Use the ordering page above. For another key range, contact us to find the matching product.