KeyNest Lockers: Flexibility and simplicity for Allsop
Allsop is one of the UK's top built-to-rent property operators, managing hundreds of nationwide properties. As they grew their portfolio, Allsop faced an ongoing challenge in managing keys for buildings without on-site concierge staff. In multi-family buildings or larger developments, the lack of a dedicated staff meant they had to find a solution that offered flexibility, security, and efficiency for key management.
To solve this problem, Allsop turned to KeyNest Lockers, an innovative solution designed to securely store and manage keys through a network of self-service lockers, accessible 24/7.
The limitations of traditional access solutions
Tom, an asset manager at Allsop, highlighted the issues that arose in managing access to properties without concierge staff before adopting KeyNest Lockers,
"Smart locks were discussed, but you can't just install a new Smart Lock on a door if you don't own the building."
This was a key challenge for Allsop, as many of their properties were leased or operated in partnership with other property owners, making retrofitting smart locks across all properties unfeasible.
In multi-family buildings, it was essential to have a reliable and autonomous system for distributing keys to suppliers, maintenance staff, and contractors.
“We decided to use the lockers on the skin in Curtsy. That is because it's a building rather than a housing estate. So we had a communal area and a security control room, which is locked, so our suppliers would only need to get into that security control by entering the code.”
However, coordinating access was still challenging, especially in more significant developments with limited on-site staff.
A smarter way in: KeyNest Lockers to the rescue
KeyNest Lockers offered a perfect fit for Allsop’s needs. The lockers are self-contained, secure units that can be installed in communal areas, allowing for easy, controlled key access at any time. They integrate seamlessly with KeyNest Cloud, allowing Allsop to remotely manage key distribution while maintaining tight security and reducing the need for manual key handovers.
Tom explained the decision to implement KeyNest Lockers:
“Oscar suggested that we use the lockers on the skin in Curtsy... It made sense... you're not paying key holding fees and your software license or key collection fees and things like that.”
This flexibility meant Allsop could ensure their suppliers and contractors had easy access to keys without constant on-site supervision.
Each locker is assigned a unique code, which can be shared with the person needing access. Contractors and suppliers can retrieve the keys at their convenience, using the KeyNest app or a web interface to get the code to unlock the locker. This system eliminates the need for manual key handovers and reduces the chance of errors or miscommunications.
Simpler, safer, and scalable
The introduction of KeyNest Lockers provided Allsop with several key advantages:
Security and Control: Each locker is secured with an individual code, ensuring only authorised personnel can access the keys.
24/7 Access: Contractors, suppliers, and other authorised users can access keys anytime, improving efficiency and reducing delays. This was especially valuable for properties without concierge services.
Scalability: The lockers can be installed in various property types, from large multi-family buildings to smaller developments, allowing Allsop to expand the system across its entire portfolio.
Tom noted,
"The locker itself, it's always been very straightforward and self-explanatory. And I mean, if it's user-friendly enough for some of our suppliers to use it, then it's got to be well-made."
KeyNest Lockers helped Allsop reduce operational overhead by eliminating the need for on-site staff to handle key management. The system also provided more accurate tracking of key movements, which reduced the risk of lost keys and the costs associated with lock changes.
The right tool for every property type
KeyNest Lockers proved to be a transformative solution for Allsop, streamlining their key management processes while providing greater flexibility and security. The system helped improve the check-in/check-out process for contractors and tenants, reduced the costs associated with key handling, and gave Allsop greater control over key access.
