A moment of panic: your keys are lost, or you simply need a spare for a loved one. As master locksmiths with over 20 years’ experience in Montreal, we’ve seen it all. Let us guide you through the options for hassle-free key duplication.
One of the first things to understand, and crucial to your security, is the difference between a neighborhood hardware store and a BSP-certified locksmith.
Lost your key? Where to get your key copied in Montreal
Whether you live in Plateau Mont-Royal, LaSalle or Westmount, the right choice depends entirely on the type of key you have. As a fully bilingual company, we serve French and English-speaking customers throughout Greater Montreal.
Hardware store or professional locksmith: who should you choose?
For a standard house key, the reflex is often the hardware store. It’s quick and economical for a basic key.
However, for any complex key, a professional locksmith becomes indispensable. A BSP-certified locksmith like Lock Aid Montreal has the precision equipment and expertise required for keys that a big-box store can’t duplicate. We have police security clearance.
Think high-security keys from brands like Medeco or Abloy. Protected by patent, their duplication is strictly controlled. Only authorized locksmiths can make a duplicate, on presentation of the authorization card. This is an essential security measure, whether for a condo in Westmount or a commercial office in Anjou.
A master locksmith doesn’t just cut metal. He guarantees an exact copy that will work without damaging your lock, and that complies with the manufacturer’s security protocols. It’s a question of know-how and professional responsibility.
In case of emergency, our 24/7 mobile service is there for you. We travel everywhere from Saint-Léonard to Ahuntsic, with an emergency response time of 20 minutes. When you choose an expert, you can be sure that your security is managed by professionals with over 20 years’ experience.
What type of key do you have?
Before you go out, identify your key. Its shape and markings tell you a lot about its technology and the best way to duplicate it.
In Montreal, there are three main key families. Knowing which one is yours will immediately point you in the right direction, whether you’re in Westmount, Anjou, or the heart of Plateau Mont-Royal.
Standard mechanical wrenches
This is the most common key, with cut teeth. It’s used for basic locks like those on sheds or certain mailboxes.
- Where can I get them copied? A local hardware store can usually make a duplicate in minutes.
- Security level: Low. They are easy to copy and the locks are often easier to pick.
- Master locksmith’s tip: A poorly cut copy can prematurely wear out your lock, resulting in much higher repair costs.
Point wrenches and laser wrenches
These have dimples (dots) or a sinuous groove etched into their surface, rather than teeth.
They are often associated with reliable brands such as Schlage and Weiser, offering a superior level of security. Their complexity requires precision equipment that only professional locksmiths possess.
Patented, high-security keys
Is your key marked “Do Not Duplicate”? You have a restricted key. This is the signature of high-security brands such as Abloy and Medecorenowned for their resistance to drilling and picking.
To obtain a duplicate, the procedure is strict. You need to find an authorized locksmith like Lock Aid Serrurier Montréal. You’ll need to present the ownership card that came with the lock. Without this card and valid identification, duplication is impossible.
This restricted key control system is the standard for businesses and building managers in LaSalle or Ahuntsic. It’s the best security guarantee on the market, and is often required by insurance companies in Quebec.
A BSP-certified locksmith will identify your key instantly. If in doubt, especially about a business key in Saint-Léonard or a condo key in Montreal-Nord, call a professional.
How to make a spare key, step by step
Having a key copied in Montreal may seem straightforward, but the procedure varies greatly depending on the type of key. Here’s how to prepare.
The first step is to identify your key. Is it standard or high-security? This distinction is crucial.
Documents you need for a secure key
If your key is a Medeco or Abloy brand, or comes with a card, it’s a controlled-reproduction key. It’s excellent protection.
For a duplicate, a certified locksmith will always ask :
- Your control card: A credit card with a unique code, proving your authorization.
- Photo ID: To validate that the applicant is the rightful owner.
A professional locksmith with a BSP license will never make an exception. It’s a measure that protects your home or business from fraudulent copying.
This diagram helps you quickly identify the type of service you need.
Workshop, hardware store or 24/7 mobile locksmith?
For a basic key, a hardware store is all you need. But for anything more complex – chip keys, laser keys, or simply a perfect duplicate the first time – a real locksmith is your only reliable option.
Drop by our workshop for non-emergency service. Our technicians have access to state-of-the-art equipment for perfect calibration.
Our real advantage is our 24/7 mobile service. Stuck in Saint-Léonard after a party, keys not found? That’s where our 20-minute response time comes into its own. Our mobile units are workshops on wheels, ready to intervene on the spot, anywhere in Montreal.
With over 20 years’ experience and our BSP license no. 20073700, we cover a vast territory. For those interested in the trade, discover facts about locksmithing in Montreal at macommunaute.ca.
Prices range from $10-15 for a mailbox key to over $200 for a car key with transponder. We always provide a clear estimate. To learn more about our residential solutions, check out our residential locksmith service in Montreal.
Beyond the double: high security solutions for Montreal
When you need a spare key, you often wonder: is my lock really secure? A simple spare isn’t always enough, especially for true peace of mind in Westmount or Anjou.
Rather than copying a vulnerable key, it makes more sense to reinforce your accesses. It’s a direct investment in your long-term security.
Restricted key control for maximum protection
The best way to prevent fraudulent copying is to opt for a lock with restricted key control. Required by insurance companies, these systems ensure that no unauthorized copies can be made.
As authorized installers, we prefer the most reliable brands:
- Medeco: Recognized for their resistance to picking and drilling. The copy is controlled by an authorization card.
- Abloy: Their rotary disk cylinders are virtually tamper-proof. Duplication is also strictly controlled.
Installing a high-security deadbolt lock is a crucial first step. Learn more about high-security deadbolts in Montreal.
As a BSP-certified locksmith (license no. 20073700) with police security clearance, we register every high-security key we create, establishing a clear chain of custody.
Modern alternatives and commercial hardware
Modern technologies offer solutions without physical keys. Smart locks like the Schlage Encode allow you to generate temporary access codes via your phone, ideal for Airbnb properties on the Plateau Mont-Royal.
For building managers in Montréal-Nord or Ahuntsic, we design master key systems. A single master key opens all doors, while each tenant has a unique key for his or her unit.
Commercial security demands strength. Dorex and LCN door closers are designed for our harsh winters, ensuring that your door locks properly. Panic bars are essential for compliance with Montreal fire codes.
The locksmith trade is more relevant than ever in Montreal. To find out more, take a look at this information on the locksmith job market on Guichet-Emplois.
Tips from a master locksmith to protect your keys and locks
With over 20 years’ experience, our master locksmiths know that small negligence can be costly in terms of security. A few good habits change everything.
Never put your address on your key ring. It’s a classic mistake. If lost, it’s an invitation to a burglar. Use a telephone number or e-mail address instead.
The importance of choosing a BSP-certified locksmith
I can’t stress this enough: entrusting a high-security key like Medeco or Abloy to just anyone is a bad idea. A poorly made copy can damage your lock’s complex mechanism.
A true professional offers total peace of mind.
- Workmanship guarantee: A key that isn’t perfect will be remade free of charge.
- Respect for your equipment: We use professional tools that leave no trace.
- Honest advice: Sometimes replacement is better than duplication. Our guide to choosing the right locks in Montreal is an excellent resource.
What matters most is the locksmith’s status. Always make sure he or she is BSP certified (license no. 20073700). This is proof that he or she has undergone a full security investigation by the police authorities.
This seal of trust guarantees that the professional working in Anjou, Westmount or LaSalle is trustworthy and adheres to a strict code of ethics.
Protecting your keys is as simple as choosing a qualified locksmith in Montreal. It’s the only way to guarantee your security.
Frequently asked questions about locksmithing in Montreal
We get a lot of calls, and some of our questions are recurring. Here are the straight answers for our customers all over Montreal, from Anjou to the Plateau.
How much does a spare key cost?
Prices vary. A simple house key costs between $5 and $15.
However, a car key with chip (transponder) or smart key can cost from $90 to over $400, depending on the complexity and model of the vehicle. This includes electronic programming.
For Medeco or Abloy high-security keys, the cost is higher due to their patented technology. We always provide a clear, free estimate before any intervention.
How long does it take?
A standard key can be made in less than five minutes in our workshop.
For more technical keys, such as laser-cut auto keys or smart keys, allow 30 minutes to an hour for cutting and programming.
That’s where our 24/7 mobile service comes into its own. Our technician comes to you, whether you’re in LaSalle or Saint-Léonard, with all his equipment.
I have a “Do not duplicate” key. What should I do?
Yes, we can copy it, but according to a strict protocol. This indicates a restricted key.
To obtain a duplicate, you must go through an authorized locksmith and present :
- The authorization card supplied with the lock.
- Valid photo ID.
As a BSP-certified locksmith (license #20073700), we follow this rule without exception to protect our customers.
Are you open at night and on weekends?
Absolutely. Emergencies never wait for business hours. Our service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, throughout Greater Montreal. We guarantee an emergency response time of 20 minutes.
Being a locksmith in Montreal is a trusted profession. Our expertise in proven security solutions, backed by over 20 years of experience, is essential in a dynamic city. It’s a combination of dexterity and honesty, values at the heart of our work. To find out more about this profession, the Quebec.ca website offers a good overview.
Whether you’ve lost your keys or your lock is broken, our bilingual team is ready to help you with professionalism.
Need help now? Our mobile units are already strategically positioned across Montreal to be at your door in 20 minutes. Call Lock Aid Serrurier Montréal at [Your Phone Number] for a clear quote or emergency service.