Access Control & Door Entry Systems in Hampshire & Surrey
A key is the simplest form of access control but it is not always the most practical or the most secure. Keys can be lost, copied or passed on without your knowledge. For businesses, schools, landlords and any organisation managing access for multiple people, a modern access control system offers significantly greater control, flexibility and auditability.
Lockmasters have been installing access control and door entry systems across Hampshire and Surrey for over 30 years. We work with businesses, schools, local authorities, housing associations, healthcare facilities and private customers, installing everything from a single keypad to complex multi-site integrated systems.
Access Control Systems We Install
Keypads and code entry
A mechanical or electronic keypad is the simplest access control option. No cards, fobs or keys are required, entry is gained by entering a numeric code. Mechanical keypads require no power and no wiring, making them an ideal solution for gates, outbuildings and locations where running a cable is impractical. Electronic keypads offer more functionality, including multiple user codes, audit trails and time-based access control.
Proximity card and fob systems
Proximity readers grant access when a programmed card or fob is presented to the reader. They are fast, convenient and eliminate the need for physical keys. Cards and fobs can be quickly deactivated if lost or when an employee leaves, without the need to change locks. Systems can be configured to log every access event, providing a full audit trail of who entered and when.
Biometric readers
Biometric access control uses a physical characteristic, most commonly a fingerprint, but also facial recognition or iris scanning, to verify identity. Because biometric data cannot be lost, copied or transferred, biometric systems offer the highest level of assurance that the person seeking access is who they claim to be. They are particularly suited to high-security areas, server rooms, laboratories and any location where access must be tightly controlled.
Audio and video door entry
Door entry intercom systems allow visitors to identify themselves before being granted access. Audio-only systems are suitable for most residential and small commercial applications. Audio-visual systems with a camera and monitor or smartphone integration allow the person inside to see who is at the door before responding. We install door entry systems for single doors, multi-occupancy residential buildings, and commercial premises with multiple entry points.
Multi-site and integrated systems
For organisations managing access across multiple buildings or sites, a fully integrated access control system allows all doors and access points to be managed from a single platform. User permissions, access times and audit logs can be controlled centrally, with changes taking effect across all connected sites immediately.
We have extensive experience designing and installing multi-site systems for schools, colleges, local authorities, healthcare facilities and commercial organisations across Hampshire and Surrey. We work with the client from initial design through to installation, commissioning and ongoing support.
Time and attendance
Access control systems can be integrated with time and attendance software to automatically record when employees arrive and leave the building. This eliminates manual clocking-in processes and provides accurate, tamper-proof records for payroll, HR and compliance purposes.
Magnetic and electric locking
The door release mechanism is a critical component of any access control system. We install magnetic locks (maglocks), electric strikes and electric solenoid bolts across all door types and frame configurations. We work closely with your door type to specify the most appropriate locking solution, ensuring the access control and the door hardware work together correctly.
Door Automation
Access control can be combined with automatic door operation so that a valid credential, card, fob or code, both unlocks and opens the door automatically. This is particularly useful for high-traffic entrances, disabled access applications, and any location where hands-free operation is required. We design and install combined access control and door automation systems for commercial and public sector clients.
Who We Work With
Our access control systems are installed across a wide range of organisations and property types:
Businesses and offices — controlling access to the building, server rooms, storage areas and restricted zones
Schools and colleges — managing pupil and staff access, safeguarding visitor management and securing sensitive areas
Local authorities and public sector — including libraries, leisure centres, council offices and social housing
Healthcare facilities — hospitals, GP surgeries, care homes and specialist units requiring controlled access
Residential buildings — blocks of flats, HMOs and managed residential developments
Industrial and commercial premises — warehouses, manufacturing sites and logistics facilities
Retail — controlling staff access to stockrooms, cash handling areas and offices
Existing System Servicing and Upgrades
If you have an existing access control system that is no longer performing correctly, is no longer supported by its manufacturer, or simply no longer meets your requirements, Lockmasters can service, repair or upgrade it. We work with all major access control platforms and can often extend the life of an existing system with targeted upgrades rather than a full replacement.
We also take on servicing and maintenance contracts for existing access control systems, providing regular scheduled maintenance and priority response for faults.
With many engineers in Hampshire & Surrey you can be sure that a Lockmasters access control specialist won’t be far away from you, so call your local branch today, fill in our contact form or email enquiries@lock-masters.co.uk and a member of the team will be happy to help.
Why Choose Lockmasters for Access Control?
30 years’ experience in Hampshire and Surrey
We have been installing access control systems locally since the 1990s, with experience across every sector and scale of project.
From simple to complex
Whether you need a single keypad on a gate or a fully integrated multi-site system for a large organisation, we have the expertise to design and deliver the right solution.
Trusted by local organisations
Our clients include Waverley Borough Council, Pixel Scene Limited and numerous schools, local authorities and businesses across the region.
Full service from design to support
We design the system, supply and install all components, commission and test, train your staff and provide ongoing support. You deal with one company throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
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A door entry system allows visitors to request access by calling through to the building — the person inside then decides whether to let them in. An access control system allows pre-authorised users to gain entry independently using a card, fob, code or biometric credential, without requiring someone inside to respond. Many installations include both: an intercom for visitors and a card or fob reader for authorised users.
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Yes. Most access control systems allow you to configure different permission levels for different users or groups. A receptionist might have access to front-of-house areas only, while senior staff have access to the whole building, and IT staff have access to the server room. Permissions can typically be changed instantly from the management software.
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This depends on the locking mechanism specified. Electric locks can be configured to ‘fail-safe’ (releasing the door on power failure, for fire escape compliance) or ‘fail-secure’ (remaining locked on power failure, for security-critical doors). We discuss the appropriate configuration for each door as part of the system design. Battery backup can also be specified to maintain operation during short power outages.
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Yes — all electronic access control systems maintain an access log. Depending on the system, you can view this log in real time or retrospectively. Logs can be filtered by user, by door and by date and time range, making them useful for investigating incidents as well as for general monitoring.
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In many cases, yes. We assess your existing system and advise on whether an upgrade is viable. Sometimes new readers, controllers or management software can be added to an existing installation rather than replacing it entirely. Contact us to arrange an assessment.
““We’ve used Lockmasters on several occasions and their service has always been cost-effective, professional and efficient. We’ve also been very impressed with their after sales service and they always have a willingness to help and advise.””
““We have used Lockmasters Mobile for several years now installing door entry systems as part of our Aids & Adaptations service. We have always received a friendly and efficient service and they are always willing to help and advise.””