The importance of key duplication cannot be understated. This process allows you to have an extra copy of your key in case of an emergency and provide a copy to someone you trust to watch over your property in your absence. Of course, this same process has been abused by criminals to trespass onto private property and commit theft. With this in mind, you are probably curious about key duplication laws and regulations and how they factor into this process.
A Guide To Key Duplication Laws And Regulations
Key duplication laws are actually more straightforward than you might think, but there are also some pervasive misconceptions and assumptions. Keep reading to learn the truth about key duplication laws and regulations.
What’s The Deal With “Do Not Duplicate” Keys?
Whether you’re renting an apartment or have access to a facility in your workplace, you may have used a key with “Do Not Duplicate” carved into it. Understandably, most people assume that this means you will get into legal trouble for duplicating this kind of key. In reality, however, this label is a recommendation, not a legal policy. Technically, you can get these keys duplicated if necessary.
Whether a locksmith will agree to duplicate it depends on the locksmith themselves. It is also important to remember that while copying a “Do Not Duplicate” key may not be illegal, you can still face consequences from the property manager for doing this. These consequences can range from paying a fine to eviction if making this duplicate violates the lease agreement. Before you get this kind of key duplicated, take time to consider whether or not it’s worth doing.
All About Restricted Keys
While a “Do Not Duplicate” engraving is not legally binding, restricted keys are another story. These are keys that locksmiths absolutely will not duplicate for legal reasons, specifically patent laws. In other words, the manufacturer of a key might be legally protected from having duplicates made, and anyone who makes a duplicate of that restricted key will be held responsible. A $10,000 fine is just one potential consequence of duplicating a restricted key. These keys are legally protected from duplication due to their high-security capabilities compared to their non-restricted counterparts.
What To Do When You Need Key Duplication Services
To ensure the validity of a key duplication process, most locksmiths will ask you to bring proof of ownership of the key and the property in question, as well as a valid form of identification. With this information, a locksmith will know that the job they are doing is valid. The last thing any locksmith wants is to get caught up in a criminal investigation, so ensuring their integrity and trustworthiness is absolutely essential.
Put Your Trust In Our Team At ASAP Louisiana Locksmith!
We hope this blog has deepened your understanding of key duplication laws and regulations and successfully dispelled some assumptions. You now know the difference between “Do Not Duplicate” and restricted keys and the consequences of copying either one. You also know that it’s important to find out what kind of keys your locksmith will duplicate and that it’s a good idea to provide identification and proof of ownership when getting your keys duplicated.
Of course, we understand that finding a locksmith you can trust isn’t easy. If you live in New Orleans, you have access to one of the most trustworthy locksmith services in your city: ASAP Locksmith Louisiana. Whether you need an extra copy or a new key, our locksmiths will promptly provide you with the help you require. Contact us today and receive services from the most trustworthy locksmiths in the state of Louisiana.
