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7 Reasons to Choose a Biometric Key Control System

biometric key control system7 Reasons to Choose a Biometric Key Control System

Security is estimated to be a multi-billion dollar market in the next six years alone, and nothing is more important. Passwords alone are no longer sufficient to maintain security and keep sensitive data out of the hands of hackers or other unauthorized individuals.

Biometrics, or the use of bodily features to access secure systems, is the next-generation solution to securing information and locations. One step up from passwords, and two steps up from traditional keyed locks, biometrics provide a practical, convenient, layered security solution that is no match for even the most dedicated hacker.

For property managers looking to protect their tenants with the most advanced security measures, HandyTrac is the number one choice for biometric key control systems. As a member of the National Apartment Association, HandyTrac provides biometric key control systems to apartment buildings, condos, and similar housing facilities all across the United States.

HandyTrac’s patented system provides a myriad of benefits for incorporating biometrics into the key systems operating in most apartments and condos.

1. Easy to use and saves space

HandyTrac’s system is easy to use and doesn’t require more space than is already taken up by the existing key board or cabinet.

2. Easily integrates with employee badges

The system accommodates bar coded employee badges and implements multi-step authentication procedures to achieve the maximum level of security.

3. Instant reporting

The HandyTrac system delivers instant reporting that the head of maintenance, or another qualified individual, can use to see which keys are out. He or she can also see the reason the key has been pulled, or other activity. This feature also makes it possible to review all the work orders in a certain set (i.e. for a given repair person, for a specific tenant, or during a specified interval).

4. Effortless maintenance and dependable support

The system allows maintenance and office support to access reports which are saved offsite, in the cloud. This helps maintain an electronic “trail” vis à vis the documented history of repair, for example. This paper trail could be of enormous benefit to property managers attempting to authenticate a repair history if called into court.

5. You can review key data across multiple properties

HandyTrac’s hierarchical information system also allows manager review across multiple properties with a single log-in.

6. WiFi compatible

HandyTrac also features a built-in Wi-Fi connection; visible coding that prevents typing errors; android’s One Touch Building Pull on board for simplified multiple-key pulling; available in single or double cabinet models; continuous warranty; technical support via toll-free 800 numbers.

7. Affordable

HandyTrac offers three affordable key management options for any size property, focusing on efficiency, usability, and cost control.

Your residents need protecting, and HandyTrac – devised by property management professionals with 30-plus years of experience – has the right systems to accomplish that.

Contact us today to learn how a biometric key control system can strengthen the security of your property.

HandyTrac Premium Touch – The Key Features

ht-touch-angled-product-shot-cropIntegrating secure and reliable biometric technology with an easy-to-use touch screen, the HandyTrac Premium Touch streamlines the key control process for both staff and managers alike. With the HandyTrac Premium Touch, key control will never feel the same.

Key features include:

– Biometric technology and a large display in one unit to offer the highest level of security,
reporting, and flexibility.

– Instant reports showing keys out, reasons, and other transactions completed by staff.

– Ability to review individual work orders with one touch.

– Visual codes that eliminate typing errors, while streamlining the entire process.

– Integration of Android’s One Touch Building Pull.

         – Lists units for each building, allowing for quick and easy access when pulling multiple keys.

– Easy to use and doesn’t require additional desktop or wall space.

– Ability to use bar code employee badges if desired.

– Built-in WiFi connection available.

For more information about the HandyTrac Premium Touch, click here.

For a quote, contact us today.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smartphone.

Key Control – Is it Necessary?

key-to-lockTwenty years ago, the term ‘key control’ brought to mind a key cabinet with labeled keys and a master key. Only a handful of companies—among them Archon, Camden Property Trust and JPI—had started using computerized key control systems.

Today, most large companies and some smaller operators in the apartment industry have installed computerized systems, which code, secure and organize duplicate unit keys used by management for maintenance, pest control and lockouts. Online systems enhance operational efficiency.

Key control systems may reduce liability by preventing apartment keys from falling into the wrong hands. Significant monetary judgments have been awarded against owners and management companies based on premises liability—where there was an “unforced entry” by a perpetrator who used a key to gain entry for criminal purposes.

Laurie Baker, Regional Vice President, Camden Property Trust, said Camden made the decision to purchase an internet based key control system for the security it provides, ease of use and “the ability to have vital information at our fingertips, at properties and at other locations, like my office.”


For apartment owners and managers who are considering purchasing a key control system, here are things to consider:

Ease of use: Is the system being considered easy to use and easy to train on, including maintenance and security, in the case of dealing with being locked out at night? How quickly can a key be requested and pulled?

Security: Is access granted to only authorized employees with badge and PIN number, password or biometric screening?

Internet-Based: Is the system tied into the Internet so a property manager can get a community’s key control status and management reports online? Does the system send automatic alerts when exceptions occur, such as keys not being returned in a timely manner? Can reports be accumulated and analyzed on a portfolio basis?

Audit Trail: Does the system automatically provide key status and usage reports and back them up so audit trail is preserved? It is important to have good documentation in case of litigation.

Cost: System prices range from $15 to $50 per unit. Careful analysis is necessary to determine whether all features offered are necessary for a particular community.

Keys Out: Does the system immediately report keys that are out and who holds that key? It is important to know quickly if a key is needed, for example, to show an available apartment.

Coded Keys: Are keys coded so that if a key is lost it cannot be matched to a unit? Power. Is the system energy efficient? How long can the system operate with battery backup?

Space: How much floor space does the system take? Will it fit into what is sometimes a crowded leasing office?

Two Keys: Does the system track both a primary key set and a duplicate key set, should the key get lost?

Making an investment in key control is a complex decision. The cost of potential litigation defense may be reduced. Good key management and the ability to analyze key usage data and enforce policy on a portfolio basis contribute to operational efficiency. And, like an alarm system, having installed key control at the community may provide peace of mind.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smartphone.


Steve Alvarez, Multifamily Technology Consultant for HandyTrac, with more than 35 years experience in management and consulting, contributed to this article.

Originally written for Units Magazine.

The Need for Better Key Control

keys-on-ring-circleHere are 6 facts about the reality of key loss and why you should take preventive measures to avoid the risk and cost associated with losing keys.

1 – Re-keying a multi-tenant high-rise can cost upwards of $80,000 and take several weeks to finish. Even with insurance, an average deductible would run $25,000.

2 – Key loss is not only a security and cost issue – it’s also a credibility and integrity issue for security firms and property management companies.

3 – The majority of keys today are simply protected by the traditional key ring attached to a belt loop. This method of key control has remained unchanged for well over 100 years.

4 – During the London 2012 Olympics, a set of keys was lost for Wembley Stadium, a major sporting venue. Replacing keys and locks costs tens of thousands of dollars.

5 – Re-keying the buildings on a typical college campus can cost up to $100,000. Last January, USA Today reported that the loss of keys costed College of William and Mary close to $500,000.

6 – G4S was forced to spend £500,000 changing ALL the locks at prison after guards lost the keys.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smartphone.


Written by Shannon Arnold. Originally posted here.

The Basics of Key Management and Control

marcela-using-ht-touchIt’s never too late – or too early – to implement a key control and management strategy. A good key control and management system is organized and formal, and addresses both access to and control of a property’s keys.

When deciding which system best suits your needs, keep these 8 basics in mind:

1. Tracking: A tracking system lets you know where keys are and who has them. The system records who took keys, when and for how long.

2. Cost: An electronic key management system can pay for itself when compared to the cost of loss and/or replacing keys on a regular basis in addition to the ROI gained from improved security.

3. Security: Key management systems are designed so that only authorized users can access keys and the management of keys is controlled.

4. Scalability: As your needs grow, the system can be expanded to accommodate more key cabinets. HandyTrac offers single and double cab options for all it’s key control systems.

5. Convenience: A key management and control system is easy to use and can accommodate a variety of keys. Biometric fingerprint verification, touch screen display and lighted cabinets add to the ease of use.

6. Integrity: Rugged 18 gauge steel cabinets and tamper-proof doors enhance the reliability of the system.

7. Access: PINs, access control cards, biometrics or any combination of the three are the most commonly used methods for accessing keys.

8. Aesthetics: Well designed key systems and cabinets make key management simple for all users. The HandyTrac Touch features a large touch screen display, biometric reader and badge reader for ease of use and maximum security.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smartphone.


This article was originally posted by Key Control Systems

Why All Multifamily Properties Should Have Key Control

keysonatableApplications for key security, control and asset management are limited only by one’s imagination. In any situation where there is a need to control access to keys, a key security system can be deployed. One of the most common and practical implementations though is in the multifamily industry.

Just think about it. Multifamily housing developments are found in nearly every municipality across the country and offer housing to thousands of people. Due to high tenant turnover and lack of technology, theft is a worsening issue.

Key control systems were designed as a replacement for manual tracking and storage of keys. Keys are filed in a cabinet that is virtually tamper proof and access and return of keys is electronically monitored. This type of locking system is intended to put a stop to thieves attempting to steal unit keys. In other cases, key control with electronic monitoring will prevent an employee from inadvertently taking a key home at the end of the day instead of returning it.

2016-report-by-employeeKey control can offer further value to multifamily because the systems can also provide management with secure, archived audit trails. For example, reports can be generated to help determine when a key was pulled and for what reason. The ability to track who took a key, for what purpose, when, for how long, and when it was returned is critical for maintaining a reasonable level of security, and reducing the chance of premises security liability.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smart phone.

The Evolution of Key Control – From Chaos to Efficiency

key-pileBefore the advent and widespread use of electronic key control systems, key control was often a haphazard routine. Many organizations used an honor system to store and control building keys, while institutions such as correctional facilities or medical campuses used a more formal system requiring access activity to be hand-written in a log book. The procedures were often ineffective, mostly laborious and frequently left the organization exposed and vulnerable because keys could not be one hundred percent accounted for.

Electronic key control systems resolved these challenges with the implementation of authorized user codes and automatic tracking of key access activity. The automated systems made it easy for users to access or return keys with designated key slots and online monitoring for tracking key usage.

Today, the most advanced key management solutions have even more of a convenience factor while maintaining simplicity of use. The newly released HandyTrac Touch for example features a friendly interface with large buttons, a large touchscreen display and Android One Touch Building Pull integration. For added convenience, the Touch provides instant reports showing keys out, reasons, and other transactions completed by staff.

Compared to the old, dog-eared logbooks, today’s key control solutions have made the task easier in addition to making it more reliable.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smart phone.


This article was originally posted by Key Control Systems

Key Control on a Budget

budgeting-picThe budget process involves revenue and expenditure forecasting and often a review of company-wide operational costs. For many organizations, both large and small, the ongoing costs of replacing lost keys is a glaring expense, in addition to safety and security issues – but one that can be easily remedied with a purpose-built key management system.

Key control systems help to eliminate the problem of lost or misplaced keys through automated management. Keys are stored in tamper-proof cabinets that can only be accessed by authorized users with pre-programmed PIN codes, access cards or biometrics. All access activity is automatically logged including time, date and identity of the individual accessing the cabinet. Additional information such as when a key is scheduled to be returned or the location of a stored key (i.e. which key cabinet in the system), is also available.

The use of physical keys is exceptionally cost effective and it therefore makes sense from a cost as well as a time standpoint to ensure keys are safeguarded and to additionally take advantage of the increased level of security they offer. The ability to store and track keys provides an immediate improvement to a dealers safety and security and the systems are much more controllable in terms of managing costs – an important factor when preparing or reviewing budget costs.

Key management systems can also be integrated into the overall security system for additional savings and protection. Administrators can access, program and monitor the system over a network from anywhere. This convenience allows managers to access reports, change users, establish permission levels for each user code, monitor data or configure the systems from virtually any location.

With a key management system like HandyTrac in place, operational expenses can be better controlled and budget planning can be made easier.


About HandyTrac

For over 20 years HandyTrac has been the low-cost leader in multifamily and military housing key control; managing keys for more than 3,000,000 apartment homes throughout the country. Our cloud based systems offer instant access to archived reporting and provide the ability to manage your communities with a single login through your computer or smart phone.


This article was originally posted by Key Control Systems

HandyTrac Sells 10,000th Key-Control System

alvarezApril 19th, 2016 – After a record-breaking start to 2016, Steve Alvarez, Vice

President and Partner at HandyTrac Systems, LLC sold the company’s

10,000th key-control system. “As a Certified Apartment Property Supervisor,

Certified Manager of Housing, and multifamily veteran, Steve has played a

major role in HandyTrac’s success for over 20 years. We’d like to thank,

and congratulate him today on this milestone,” says John Lie-Nielsen, CEO of

HandyTrac.

Founded by apartment industry veterans, HandyTrac has utilized its industry experience and

insight to build a loyal base of customers who demand a high tech, yet affordable, method of

managing and safe-guarding their keys.

“Our success has been built upon our company mission: to create high quality products that

combine first-rate security with intuitive controls and cost efficiency,” says Lie-Nielsen. “Over

the years, through the new technologies we implement and the customer service we provide,

we’ve built a name that people know and trust.”


HandyTrac Touch: Key Control Will Never Feel The Same

Integrating secure and reliable biometric technology with an easy-to-use touch screen, the

HandyTrac Touch streamlines the key control process for both staff and managers alike.

Features include:

  • Biometric technology and a large display in one unit to offer the highest level of

    security, reporting, and flexibility.

  • Instant reports showing keys out, reasons, and other transactions completed by staff.

  • Ability to review individual work orders with one touch.

  • Visual codes that eliminate typing errors, while streamlining the entire process.

  • Integration of Android’s One Touch Building Pull:

    • Lists units for each building, allowing for quick and easy access when pulling

      multiple keys.

  • Easy to use and doesn’t require additional desktop or wall space.

  • Ability to use bar code employee badges if desired.

  • Built-in WiFi connection available.

With over 3 million keys secured, you can trust HandyTrac for your key control needs. For more

information, visit www.handytrac.com or call 800-665-9994.


About HandyTrac

The HandyTrac Key Control System provides apartment industry key control, as well as student

housing and military housing with a secure, low cost, key control and key tracking system. Their

patented online key management system is the first and only key control solution that ensures

all of clients’ data are backed up with an audit trail.

HandyTrac’s Key Control System Just Got Even Better

admin-ajaxIn 1995, HandyTrac CEO John Lie-Nielsen set out to secure his first key control contract with Alexander Properties in Atlanta for his start-up product, the HandyTrac Classic. Today, HandyTrac protects over 5 million units nationwide, and is the leading key management and control system in the multi-housing and commercial property industry.

After experiencing remarkable success with the HandyTrac Classic, Lie-Nielsen decided to take property security one step further with the HandyTrac Biometric; a system that enhances audit trail credibility and security while eliminating the frustration of lost or damaged employee badges. This system would quickly become the most trusted system in the country, but Lie-Nielsen still felt there was work to be done.

Introducing the HandyTrac Premium Touch. Integrating secure and reliable biometric technology with an easy-to-use touch screen, the HandyTrac Premium Touch streamlines the key control process for both staff and managers alike. With the HandyTrac Premium Touch, key control will never feel the same.

Features include:

– Biometric technology and a large display in one unit to offer the highest level of security,
reporting, and flexibility.

– Instant reports showing keys out, reasons, and other transactions completed by staff.

– Ability to review individual work orders with one touch.

– Visual codes that eliminate typing errors, while streamlining the entire process.

– Integration of Android’s One Touch Building Pull.

         – Lists units for each building, allowing for quick and easy access when pulling multiple keys.

– Easy to use and doesn’t require additional desktop or wall space.

– Ability to use bar code employee badges if desired.

– Built-in WiFi connection available.

With over 5 million keys secured, you can trust HandyTrac for your key control needs. For more information, visit www.handytrac.com or call 800-665-9994.