Frequently Asked Questions

If a credential is lost or stolen, it should be deactivated immediately through the system’s management software to prevent unauthorized access. Most systems allow admins to disable a card remotely with just a few clicks.

Once deactivated, you can issue a replacement and/or assign a new credential. Always keep a process in place for reporting lost items quickly to maintain your access control system integrity and security.

Absolutely, access control systems allow for granular permission settings based on roles, departments, or schedules. You can grant employees access only to specific areas and during certain times, like their working hours.

Temporary access can be set for contractors or visitors, and permissions are easily updated or revoked as needed. This flexibility helps maintain security while adapting to dynamic workplace needs.

Software updates should be applied as soon as they are available to fix any security gaps and to take advantage of new features. Permission reviews are recommended quarterly, and especially after staff changes or role adjustments.

Regular maintenance and updates ensures your system adapts to new threats and organizational security needs are met.

Yes! Most modern systems can work with CCTV cameras, security alarms, and biometric scanners. For example, a facial recognition door lock could trigger a camera to record entry event, or a motion sensor warning could automatically lock the doors.

A lot can be done with access control system integrations and by layering multiple security technologies you are increasing your and your business’s security.

An access control system is a set of rules which can include processes and procedure to determine who can access a controlled area. Access control systems are typically used as an additional layer of security for businesses, corporations, and facilities.

Access control systems can utilize a variety of authentication methods including Cards (keycards or fobs), Biometrics (fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scan), and keypad/PIN or a combination of multiple methods.

Alarm systems need minimal maintenance but can benefit from regular checks. We recommend testing your system monthly, replacing backup batteries every 2-4 years, and scheduling a professional inspection annually.

Keeping sensors clean and ensuring doors and windows close properly also helps maintain reliability. We offer maintenance plans to keep your system in top shape.

Absolutely! Most modern alarm systems can integrate with smart locks, video doorbells, lighting, and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. This allows you to control your security system remotely via app or browser and create automated routines, such as arming the system when you leave.

We can help you choose compatible devices and set everything up seamlessly.

In many areas, yes. Especially if your system includes monitoring or connects to emergency services. Local building codes and municipal regulations often require permits for hardwired installations or systems that trigger police or fire responses.

We help you navigate these requirements and typically handle the permit application process as part of our service.

A typical residential installation takes between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the system’s complexity and the size of the property. Simpler wireless systems can often be completed in a single day, while larger commercial properties or homes with multiple zones and hardwired setups may take longer.

We always schedule the appointment with a realistic timeframe and keep you informed throughout the process.

We install a range of systems, including hardwired, wireless, and hybrid alarm setups. Hardwired systems are durable and reliable, while wireless options offer easier installation and flexibility for renters or older homes.

Hybrid systems combine the best of both and are great for properties undergoing renovations. The choice depends on your home/business layout, security needs, and budget.

We offer free comprehensive post-installation support, including system checks, software updates, and troubleshooting assistance during your labor warranty period.

We also provide maintenance packages to ensure cameras stay properly pointed, connected, and functioning properly over time. If you experience issues with recording, connectivity, or power, we can often resolve them remotely or schedule an on-site visit. Our maintenance packages helps extend the life and reliability of your system.

Yes, our security camera installers specialize in integrating security cameras with smart home platforms like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit. They can set up remote viewing on your smartphone, enable motion alerts, and synchronize cameras with other smart devices such as door locks or lights. This creates a seamless and responsive security ecosystem tailored to your lifestyle.

While it’s helpful to be available at the start and end of the installation, you don’t need to be present the entire time. Being there at the beginning allows you to discuss final camera placements and address any concerns.

At the end, our technician will walk you through how to use the system, access footage, and troubleshoot basic issues. Our techs will keep you updated throughout the process and will contact you if any unforeseen issues arise.

Installation time can vary widely depending on the system complexity and the number of cameras, but most single residence setups take between 4 to 8 hours. Larger commercial properties or systems requiring extensive wiring may take several days to finish.

Factors like camera placement, network setup, and whether you’re retrofitting or doing a new construction install also plays a big role. Our security camera estimation department will provide a clear timeline after our techs assess your site.

Our professional installers are experienced with a variety of systems, including analog (DVR), IP (NVR), wireless, and hybrid setups. We can help you choose the right system based on your property size, internet connectivity, and surveillance needs.

Whether you need indoor monitoring, outdoor protection, or a full property coverage solution, our techs can integrate cameras, recorders, and cloud storage options. Their expertise ensures compatibility between hardware and software for optimal performance and reliability.

Storage needs depend on the number of cameras, video resolution, frames per second, and how long you want to keep your footage. For example, a single 1080p camera recording continuously will typically use around 20-30 GB per week, depending on encoding.

In this case a 1TB hard drive could store roughly 4-6 weeks of footage for four cameras. Using motion-activated recording or smart compression (like H.265) can significantly reduce storage usage while maintaining video quality.

Yes, we provide emergency locksmith services in Baltimore and central Maryland from Sunday to Friday Evening. We offer lock-out services for cars, homes, and businesses including high security locks, safes, and vaults.

Yes, our locksmiths can make car keys for all makes and models of vehicles, including high security vehicles. Some of the keys are dealer only item so if you have a Saab, Volvo, or Porsche please call ahead to make sure we can program it. For BMW and Mercedes we can make keys for 2014 and older models with ease.

Most of the car keys have a small chip in it, called a transponder. For these type of keys it is not just about cutting the key, they also have to be programmed to the car’s computer in order for your car to start. If your key has a plastic head more than likely it’s a transponder key. If you are not sure if you have this type of key just call us with your vehicle year, make, and model and we can let you know right over the phone.

Car keys vary greatly in price because each vehicle key is different to program and cut. Most car keys with chip run from $65-$295 cut and programmed. Cost of you car key will depend on following:

• Is it a key with or without a security chip that requires programming.
• Do you have push to start in your car? (proximity keys are usually more)
• Do you have a working car key or not? (if you have no key it will cost a little more)

We always quote a full price before starting work, so you can decide if you want to get it today or hold off on it for a bit.

If you have your own remote you bought online or your current remote somehow lost it programming, our locksmiths can program the remote for you.

We also carry key fobs and remotes for all types of cars and have the equipment to program it. If you are looking to get a new car key, fob, or remote programmed please make sure to have any others you already have with you. All keys or fobs you want to operate your car must be programmed together or the older ones won’t work.

We have to make sure that we are unlocking the property for the rightful owner and check the ID to verify ownership.

It is usually a good idea to make sure that the locksmith you are considering to hire is a legitimate business and not a fraud.

Maryland is one of the few states that does require licensing of locksmith business. You can find out if the locksmith you are considering to hire is licensed in Maryland by visiting the DLLR website.

Our Maryland license number is 99.

Yes, we provide emergency locksmith services in Baltimore and central Maryland from Sunday to Friday Evening. We offer lock-out services for cars, homes, and businesses including high security locks, safes, and vaults.

Re-keying is the process in which the lock cylinder is pulled out and fitted with new pins to change the key that opens it. Re-keying will render the old keys useless while saving you money by not having to buy new hardware.

All re-keys and new locks come with 2 keys free of charge and we can even make 2 additional complimentary keys for you on site. (additional complimentary key offer does not apply to super high security locks like Mul-T-Lock)

Rekey of lock can also range in price depending on the type of lock you have. Most rekeys cost around $18-25, however, if you have high security locks price can go up to $35-45.

Keys marked “Do Not Duplicate”, “Do Not Copy”, or ” Unlawful to Copy” can only be duplicated with a letter of authorization from the owner or manager of the property.

The letter must be on company letterhead and identify the person picking up the keys, number of keys to be made, and the contact information of the writer of said letter.

The person who is picking up the keys will need a government supplied ID (drivers license or state issued ID card) to verify identity. We reserve the right to refuse to copy any key marked “Do Not Copy”.

Yes, we are an authorized Mul-T-Lock dealer that can sell and install the locks as well as provide copying of keys. Mul-T-Lock keys CAN NOT be made unless the original key is present.

To get a copy of the key you must meet all requirements mentioned above for “Do Not Copy” keys.

Again, the price depends on the type of lock, they range from $15-25.

It is usually a good idea to make sure that the locksmith you are considering to hire is a legitimate business and not a fraud.

Maryland is one of the few states that does require licensing of locksmith business. You can find out if the locksmith you are considering to hire is licensed in Maryland by visiting the DLLR website.

Our Maryland license number is 99.

Yes, we provide emergency locksmith services in Baltimore and central Maryland from Sunday to Friday Evening. We offer lock-out services for cars, homes, and businesses including high security locks, safes, and vaults.

We can make house keys for any type of lock you may have on your door. Even if you loose your only copy of the key, we can still make you a new key. First we would need to pick the lock open and then take the lock apart so we can re-key it and make you a new key.

The new key we make will be different from the old one you lost so even if someone finds it they can’t use it to unlock your door. If you have other locks that used the same key they also must be re-keyed in order for them work with the new key.

It really depends on the type of lock you have on your door, home keys run between $2.50-7 with most of them falling in the lower range.

No, drilling is only used if we can’t get the lock open in a reasonable amount of time. First we will do our best to open your lock without causing any damage like picking the lock, manipulation, or impressioning.

These methods work most of the time, however, even the most experienced locksmith can run into locks they simply cannot open in timely fashion. Only then will we drill out the lock. Drilling the lock will not cause any damage to the door but will make your lock unusable. In the highly unlikely situation when we do end up drilling your lock, we are able to replace it with a new one.

There are many different things that factor in the cost of home door unlocking. Your price for door unlocking is affected by the following things:

• Your distance from our nearest locksmith?
• Time of the day, during normal business hours it is cheaper.
• Type of door lock, high security locks cost more to open and some may even require drilling. If drilling is required you will need to have the lock replaced. (don’t worry we will do everything to prevent having to drill your lock)

Absolutely, we carry locks from all major brands and can help you pick the right lock for your security needs and budget. Whether you want a medium or a high security lock we got you covered, even if you want an electronic lock or access control device.

Re-keying is the process in which the lock cylinder is pulled out and fitted with new pins to change the key that opens it. Re-keying will render the old keys useless while saving you money by not having to buy new hardware.

All re-keys and new locks come with 2 keys free of charge and we can even make 2 additional complimentary keys for you on site. (additional complimentary key offer does not apply to super high security locks like Mul-T-Lock)

Rekey of lock can also range in price depending on the type of lock you have. Most rekeys cost around $18-25, however, if you have high security locks price can go up to $35-45.

It is not necessary to have the locks changed unless the lock is no longer functional or desirable. You can have the lock re-keyed for much cheaper than replacing the entire lock.

After re-keying the lock can only be opened using the new key which will be different from the old key, making the old key useless on the lock.

Some of the most secure locks we offer are Mul-T-Lock and Medeco, they are virtually pick proof and offers a very high level of security.

These locks can be a bit pricey for residential customers and other options are available that provide a higher level of security than traditional pin and tumbler locks.

Give us a call and we can help you pick a lock based on the desired level of security and your budget.

We have to make sure that we are unlocking the property for the rightful owner and check the ID to verify ownership.

It is usually a good idea to make sure that the locksmith you are considering to hire is a legitimate business and not a fraud.

Maryland is one of the few states that does require licensing of locksmith business. You can find out if the locksmith you are considering to hire is licensed in Maryland by visiting the DLLR website.

Our Maryland license number is 99.