Apartment Master Keys/Cards

[LGreene]

Another apartment question...this time on the individual dwelling unit entry doors. What type of access does the fire department typically require for individual apartments? A metal master key in the key box? If the dwelling unit entry door locks were electronic with no key override, would a card/fob in the key box suffice? Or do you just use the halligan-key and not worry about master keys? When you respond, tell me if this is a preference, or a local requirement. Please. ;-)

 

[fatboy]

I am going to say that the ax is what gets them into individual units around here. Access to common areas, that's it.

 

[cda]

No key required

Would be to many to keep up with, have not heard an ahj require them. I am sure there is one out there

 

[steveray]

What our guys usually tell the property owners is that they will get in if there is an alarm or cause...if there are keys they will use them(knox box), if not, the door supplier will be happy...

 

[Frank]

Boot applied beside the door handle usually works well

 

[FM William Burns]

We have a couple of "special needs or senior housing" buildings where we require a master housed in the Knox Box. Typically building owners are happy to provide them when one has to replace a few doors due to medical calls and the need to force entry. Yes we also have a couple with cards and fobs in the KB.

 

[mjohnson]

Chicago seems to want a metal master key in the Knox Box for all units, whether or not they use it is another question. They seem to enjoy employing their own set of boot, hammer, and halligan keys. My experience is that they try the key(s) once and if the operation is not simple enough, or if there is a rim-lock in use, they will gladly force it open.

 

[mark handler]

We have a couple of "special needs or senior housing" buildings where we require a master housed in the Knox Box. Typically building owners are happy to provide them when one has to replace a few doors due to medical calls and the need to force entry. Yes we also have a couple with cards and fobs in the KB.

Same with us.