Compatibility starts with the door, not the product photo
We inspect material, thickness, edge width, handing, handle position, latch type and frame clearance. Timber, steel, aluminium and glass doors need different hardware. In some cases, keeping the existing mechanical lock and adding a smart actuator is the least invasive answer.
Choosing an access method
- Fingerprint: convenient for residents and permanent staff, with named users.
- PIN: permanent, temporary or schedule-limited access.
- Card: useful in facilities, provided lost cards can be revoked immediately.
- App: remote management where the platform and accounts are properly secured.
- Mechanical key: an emergency option stored securely away from the door.
What happens when batteries or internet fail?
A well-designed lock keeps local fingerprint and PIN access working without internet, warns before its batteries are depleted, and provides external emergency power plus a mechanical key. We demonstrate these cases at handover rather than merely opening the app once.
Doorbell and smart-home integration
A compatible lock can work with a video doorbell, letting you see a visitor before granting access, or trigger an arrival scene for entrance lighting and security. Door-unlock permission remains separate from general household accounts, with additional verification where supported.
Security is not a feature count
We assess the physical lock body, tamper resistance, data handling, access log, manufacturer update support and immediate user revocation. A front door should not depend on an unknown cloud service simply because its app looks attractive.
Installation and handover
- Measure and document the door and existing mortise.
- Confirm a compatible model and any required cutting.
- Install and align the latch and strike accurately.
- Set up the administrator, users, schedules and alerts.
- Test inside release, emergency access and repeated closing.
- Hand over emergency keys and battery/user-removal instructions.
