{"id":19864,"date":"2026-03-19T02:40:40","date_gmt":"2026-03-19T06:40:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/locksmith-montreal-key-duplication-and-high-security-guide\/"},"modified":"2026-03-19T02:40:40","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T06:40:40","slug":"locksmith-montreal-key-duplication-and-high-security-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/locksmith-montreal-key-duplication-and-high-security-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Locksmith Montreal: Key duplication and high security guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>A moment of panic: your keys are lost, or you simply need a spare for a loved one. As master locksmiths with over <strong>20 years&#8217; experience<\/strong> in Montreal, we&#8217;ve seen it all. Let us guide you through the options for hassle-free key duplication.  <\/p>\n<p>One of the first things to understand, and crucial to your security, is the difference between a neighborhood hardware store and a <strong>BSP-certified locksmith<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2>Lost your key? Where to get your key copied in Montreal <\/h2>\n<p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/locksmith-montreal-key-duplication.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a black \"DOUBLE KEY\" sign and a key in a lock on a white door, with a locksmith working in the blurred background.\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1600px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1600\/900;\"><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>Whether you live in Plateau Mont-Royal, LaSalle or Westmount, the right choice depends entirely on the type of key you have. As a <strong>fully bilingual<\/strong> company, we serve French and English-speaking customers throughout Greater Montreal. <\/p>\n<h3>Hardware store or professional locksmith: who should you choose?<\/h3>\n<p>For a standard house key, the reflex is often the hardware store. It&#8217;s quick and economical for a basic key. <\/p>\n<p>However, for any complex key, a professional locksmith becomes indispensable. A <strong>BSP-certified locksmith<\/strong> like Lock Aid Montreal has the precision equipment and expertise required for keys that a big-box store can&#8217;t duplicate. We have <strong>police security clearance<\/strong>.  <\/p>\n<p>Think high-security keys from brands like <strong>Medeco<\/strong> or <strong>Abloy<\/strong>. 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.   <\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p>A master locksmith doesn&#8217;t just cut metal. He guarantees an exact copy that will work without damaging your lock, and that complies with the manufacturer&#8217;s security protocols. It&#8217;s a question of know-how and professional responsibility.  <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>In case of emergency, our <strong>24\/7 mobile service<\/strong> is there for you. We travel everywhere from Saint-L\u00e9onard to Ahuntsic, with an <strong>emergency response time of 20 minutes<\/strong>. When you choose an expert, you can be sure that your security is managed by professionals with over <strong>20 years&#8217; experience<\/strong>.  <\/p>\n<h3>What type of key do you have?<\/h3>\n<p>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. <\/p>\n<p>In Montreal, there are three main key families. Knowing which one is yours will immediately point you in the right direction, whether you&#8217;re in Westmount, Anjou, or the heart of Plateau Mont-Royal. <\/p>\n<h3>Standard mechanical wrenches<\/h3>\n<p>This is the most common key, with cut teeth. It&#8217;s used for basic locks like those on sheds or certain mailboxes. <\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Where can I get them copied?<\/strong>  A local hardware store can usually make a duplicate in minutes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Security level:<\/strong> Low. They are easy to copy and the locks are often easier to pick. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Master locksmith&#8217;s tip:<\/strong> A poorly cut copy can prematurely wear out your lock, resulting in much higher repair costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Point wrenches and laser wrenches<\/h3>\n<p>These have dimples (dots) or a sinuous groove etched into their surface, rather than teeth.<\/p>\n<p>They are often associated with reliable brands such as <strong>Schlage<\/strong> and <strong>Weiser<\/strong>, offering a superior level of security. Their complexity requires precision equipment that only professional locksmiths possess. <\/p>\n<h3>Patented, high-security keys<\/h3>\n<p>Is your key marked &#8220;Do Not Duplicate&#8221;? You have a <strong>restricted<\/strong> key. This is the signature of high-security brands such as <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.abloy.com\/ca\/fr\">Abloy<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medeco.com\/fr\/l\/amerique-du-nord-et-du-sud\/\">Medeco<\/a><\/strong>renowned for their resistance to drilling and picking.  <\/p>\n<p>To obtain a duplicate, the procedure is strict. You need to find an authorized locksmith like Lock Aid Serrurier Montr\u00e9al. You&#8217;ll need to present the ownership card that came with the lock. Without this card and valid identification, duplication is impossible.   <\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p>This <strong>restricted key control<\/strong> system is the standard for businesses and building managers in LaSalle or Ahuntsic. It&#8217;s the best security guarantee on the market, and is often required by insurance companies in Quebec. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>A <strong>BSP-certified locksmith<\/strong> will identify your key instantly. If in doubt, especially about a business key in Saint-L\u00e9onard or a condo key in Montreal-Nord, call a professional. <\/p>\n<h2>How to make a spare key, step by step<\/h2>\n<p>Having a key copied in Montreal may seem straightforward, but the procedure varies greatly depending on the type of key. Here&#8217;s how to prepare. <\/p>\n<p>The first step is to identify your key. Is it standard or high-security? This distinction is crucial.  <\/p>\n<h3>Documents you need for a secure key<\/h3>\n<p>If your key is a <strong>Medeco<\/strong> or <strong>Abloy<\/strong> brand, or comes with a card, it&#8217;s a controlled-reproduction key. It&#8217;s excellent protection. <\/p>\n<p>For a duplicate, a certified locksmith will always ask :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Your control card:<\/strong> A credit card with a unique code, proving your authorization.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Photo ID:<\/strong> To validate that the applicant is the rightful owner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A professional locksmith with a <strong>BSP<\/strong> license will never make an exception. It&#8217;s a measure that protects your home or business from fraudulent copying. <\/p>\n<p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/locksmith-montreal-key-types.jpg\" alt=\"Decision tree to identify the type of key: simple, patented secure or electronic\/remote-controlled.\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1344px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1344\/768;\"><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>This diagram helps you quickly identify the type of service you need.<\/p>\n<h3>Workshop, hardware store or 24\/7 mobile locksmith?<\/h3>\n<p>For a basic key, a hardware store is all you need. But for anything more complex &#8211; chip keys, laser keys, or simply a perfect duplicate the first time &#8211; a real locksmith is your only reliable option. <\/p>\n<p>Drop by our workshop for non-emergency service. Our technicians have access to state-of-the-art equipment for perfect calibration. <\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p>Our real advantage is our <strong>24\/7 mobile service<\/strong>. Stuck in Saint-L\u00e9onard after a party, keys not found? That&#8217;s where our <strong>20-minute response time<\/strong> comes into its own. Our mobile units are workshops on wheels, ready to intervene on the spot, anywhere in Montreal.   <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>With over <strong>20 years&#8217; experience<\/strong> and our <strong>BSP<\/strong> license <strong>no. 20073700,<\/strong> we cover a vast territory. For those interested in the trade, <a href=\"https:\/\/macommunaute.ca\/secteurs-activite\/serrurerie\/\">discover facts about locksmithing in Montreal at macommunaute.ca<\/a>. <\/p>\n<p>Prices range from <strong>$10-15<\/strong> for a mailbox key to over <strong>$200<\/strong> for a car key with transponder. We always provide a clear estimate. To learn more about our residential solutions, check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/services\/residential-locksmith\/\">residential locksmith service in Montreal<\/a>.  <\/p>\n<h2>Beyond the double: high security solutions for Montreal<\/h2>\n<p><figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/montreal-locksmith-door-lock.jpg\" alt=\"An open white door with a black and silver reinforced security lock, displaying the text \"SECURITE RENFORCEE\".\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1600px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1600\/900;\"><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n<p>When you need a spare key, you often wonder: is my lock really secure? A simple spare isn&#8217;t always enough, especially for true peace of mind in Westmount or Anjou. <\/p>\n<p>Rather than copying a vulnerable key, it makes more sense to reinforce your accesses. It&#8217;s a direct investment in your long-term security. <\/p>\n<h3>Restricted key control for maximum protection<\/h3>\n<p>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. <\/p>\n<p>As authorized installers, we prefer the most reliable brands:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Medeco:<\/strong> Recognized for their resistance to picking and drilling. The copy is controlled by an authorization card. <\/li>\n<li><strong>Abloy:<\/strong> Their rotary disk cylinders are virtually tamper-proof. Duplication is also strictly controlled. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Installing a <strong>high-security deadbolt lock<\/strong> is a crucial first step. Learn more about high-security <a href=\"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/high-security-deadbolt-locks\/\">deadbolts in Montreal<\/a>. <\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p>As a <strong>BSP-certified<\/strong> locksmith <strong>(license no. 20073700)<\/strong> with police security clearance, we register every high-security key we create, establishing a clear chain of custody.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<h3>Modern alternatives and commercial hardware<\/h3>\n<p>Modern technologies offer solutions without physical keys. Smart locks like the <strong>Schlage Encode<\/strong> allow you to generate temporary access codes via your phone, ideal for Airbnb properties on the Plateau Mont-Royal. <\/p>\n<p>For building managers in Montr\u00e9al-Nord or Ahuntsic, we design <strong>master key systems<\/strong>. A single master key opens all doors, while each tenant has a unique key for his or her unit. <\/p>\n<p>Commercial security demands strength. <strong>Dorex<\/strong> and <strong>LCN<\/strong> door closers are designed for our harsh winters, ensuring that your door locks properly. Panic bars are essential for compliance with Montreal fire codes.  <\/p>\n<p>The locksmith trade is more relevant than ever in Montreal. To find out more, take a look <a href=\"https:\/\/www.guichetemplois.gc.ca\/rapportmarche\/salaire-profession\/14957\/QC;jsessionid=30B23AA443A81DE61083C9E0EF79FAAB.jobsearch74\">at this information on the locksmith job market on Guichet-Emplois<\/a>. <\/p>\n<h2>Tips from a master locksmith to protect your keys and locks<\/h2>\n<p>With over <strong>20 years&#8217; experience<\/strong>, our master locksmiths know that small negligence can be costly in terms of security. A few good habits change everything. <\/p>\n<p>Never put your address on your key ring. It&#8217;s a classic mistake. If lost, it&#8217;s an invitation to a burglar. Use a telephone number or e-mail address instead.   <\/p>\n<h3>The importance of choosing a BSP-certified locksmith<\/h3>\n<p>I can&#8217;t stress this enough: entrusting a high-security key like <strong>Medeco<\/strong> or <strong>Abloy<\/strong> to just anyone is a bad idea. A poorly made copy can damage your lock&#8217;s complex mechanism. <\/p>\n<p>A true professional offers total peace of mind.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Workmanship guarantee:<\/strong> A key that isn&#8217;t perfect will be remade free of charge.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Respect for your equipment:<\/strong> We use professional tools that leave no trace.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Honest advice:<\/strong> Sometimes replacement is better than duplication. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/guide-choosing-right-door-locks-montreal-home\/\">guide to choosing the right locks in Montreal<\/a> is an excellent resource. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<blockquote>\n<p>What matters most is the locksmith&#8217;s status. Always make sure he or she is <strong>BSP certified (license no. 20073700)<\/strong>. This is proof that he or she has undergone a full security investigation by the police authorities.  <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>This seal of trust guarantees that the professional working in Anjou, Westmount or LaSalle is trustworthy and adheres to a strict code of ethics.<\/p>\n<p>Protecting your keys is as simple as choosing a qualified <strong>locksmith in Montreal<\/strong>. It&#8217;s the only way to guarantee your security. <\/p>\n<h2>Frequently asked questions about locksmithing in Montreal<\/h2>\n<p>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. <\/p>\n<h3>How much does a spare key cost?<\/h3>\n<p>Prices vary. A simple house key costs between $5 and $15. <\/p>\n<p>However, a car key with chip (transponder) or smart key can cost from <strong>$90 to over $400<\/strong>, depending on the complexity and model of the vehicle. This includes electronic programming. <\/p>\n<p>For <strong>Medeco<\/strong> or <strong>Abloy<\/strong> high-security keys, the cost is higher due to their patented technology. We always provide a <strong>clear, free estimate<\/strong> before any intervention. <\/p>\n<h3>How long does it take?<\/h3>\n<p>A standard key can be made in less than five minutes in our workshop.<\/p>\n<p>For more technical keys, such as laser-cut auto keys or smart keys, allow <strong>30 minutes to an hour<\/strong> for cutting and programming.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s where our <strong>24\/7 mobile service<\/strong> comes into its own. Our technician comes to you, whether you&#8217;re in LaSalle or Saint-L\u00e9onard, with all his equipment. <\/p>\n<h3>I have a &#8220;Do not duplicate&#8221; key. What should I do? <\/h3>\n<p>Yes, we can copy it, but according to a strict protocol. This indicates a <strong>restricted<\/strong> key. <\/p>\n<p>To obtain a duplicate, you must go through an authorized locksmith and present :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The authorization card<\/strong> supplied with the lock.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Valid<\/strong> photo <strong>ID<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As a <strong>BSP-certified locksmith (license #20073700)<\/strong>, we follow this rule without exception to protect our customers.<\/p>\n<h3>Are you open at night and on weekends?<\/h3>\n<p>Absolutely. Emergencies never wait for business hours. Our service is available <strong>24 hours a day, 7 days a week<\/strong>, throughout Greater Montreal. We guarantee an <strong>emergency response time of 20 minutes<\/strong>.   <\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p>Being a locksmith in Montreal is a trusted profession. Our expertise in proven security solutions, backed by over <strong>20 years of experience<\/strong>, is essential in a dynamic city. It&#8217;s a combination of dexterity and honesty, values at the heart of our work. To find out more about this profession, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.quebec.ca\/emploi\/informer-metier-profession\/explorer-metiers-professions\/72999-autre-personnel-des-metiers\">the Quebec.ca website offers a good overview<\/a>.   <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Whether you&#8217;ve lost your keys or your lock is broken, our bilingual team is ready to help you with professionalism.<\/p>\n<hr>\n<p>Need help now? Our mobile units are already strategically positioned across Montreal to be at your door in <strong>20 minutes<\/strong>. Call <strong>Lock Aid Serrurier Montr\u00e9al<\/strong> at [Your Phone Number] for a clear quote or emergency service.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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&#8217; experience in Montreal, we&#8217;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, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":19568,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[26],"tags":[532,463,533,442,387],"class_list":["post-19864","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-locksmith-montreal","tag-duplicate-key","tag-emergency-locksmith-3","tag-high-security-key","tag-lock-repair-montreal","tag-locksmith-montreal"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/locksmith-montreal-sketch-design-scaled.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19864","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19864"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19864\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19568"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19864"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19864"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/serrurierservicemontreal.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19864"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}