Security Hardware Guide
New York City apartments face a unique set of security challenges. Between high population density, heavy foot traffic in hallways, and the sheer volume of delivered packages sitting in lobbies, having strong locks on your apartment door is not optional -- it is essential. Standard builder-grade locks that come pre-installed in many NYC apartments offer only basic protection.
High-security locks are designed to resist picking, bumping, drilling, and forced entry. They also typically use restricted key systems, which means copies can only be made by authorized dealers -- so a lost key does not mean anyone with a hardware store key machine can duplicate it.
Medeco is one of the most common high-security lock brands in NYC, and for good reason. Their locks use a patented rotating pin system that makes picking extremely difficult. Medeco keys can only be duplicated at authorized Medeco dealers, and you typically need to present an authorization card. The Medeco Maxum deadbolt is a popular choice for NYC residential installations. Expect to pay $200 to $400 for a Medeco deadbolt installed by a licensed locksmith.
Mul-T-Lock uses a telescopic pin-in-pin system that provides excellent resistance to picking and bumping. Their Interactive+ line features a floating pin element that adds another layer of anti-duplication security. Mul-T-Lock is widely used in NYC co-ops and condos. Price range is similar to Medeco -- typically $200 to $450 installed.
Abloy uses a disc-detainer mechanism rather than traditional pins, making it virtually pick-proof with standard lock picking tools. Abloy Protec2 is their flagship residential product. These locks are less common in NYC than Medeco or Mul-T-Lock but offer arguably the highest pick resistance available. Pricing is typically $250 to $500 installed.
For those who want a step up from basic locks without the premium price of Medeco or Mul-T-Lock, the Schlage B660P is a solid commercial-grade deadbolt. It offers ANSI Grade 1 certification (the highest rating), anti-pick pins, and a reinforced strike plate. It is not a restricted-key system, so key duplication is easier, but the physical security is excellent. Typically $150 to $250 installed.
NYC apartments often have specific lock requirements. Many co-op and condo boards specify which lock brands are acceptable. Before purchasing, check your building's rules. In rentals, NYC law requires the landlord to provide a functioning lock, and you typically have the right to add additional locks (like a deadbolt) at your own expense, as long as you provide the landlord with a key.
Also consider the age of your door. Many pre-war NYC apartments have solid wood doors that can accommodate any lock. However, some newer buildings use hollow-core doors that limit the type of deadbolt you can install. Your locksmith can assess your door and recommend the right hardware.
For additional protection beyond the lock itself, consider reinforcing your door frame and upgrading the strike plate. The strongest lock in the world will not help if the door frame splits on impact.
Browse our selection of high-security locks from Mul-T-Lock, Medeco, and other trusted brands, with professional installation available.
In most cases, yes. NYC tenants have the right to install additional locks at their own expense, but you must provide the landlord with a key. You typically cannot remove the existing lock -- only add to it. Check your lease for any specific restrictions.
Smart locks offer convenience features that mechanical locks do not, but most consumer-grade smart locks are ANSI Grade 2 or 3 and do not match the physical security of a Grade 1 Medeco or Mul-T-Lock. For maximum security, some people pair a smart lock with a separate high-security deadbolt.
For a typical apartment with one main entry lock, upgrading to a high-security deadbolt plus a good knob lock runs $300 to $600 total, including hardware and professional installation. If you have multiple entry points, multiply accordingly.