Access control is a crucial piece of the puzzle for any property, and for many operators, it’s still more manual than it needs to be. Lost keys and lockouts, key handoffs, late-night arrivals, and limited visibility into who accessed a room and when can create friction for both staff and guests. 

For hotels, motels, resorts, and multifamily properties, 33 Lock simplifies access management with flexible, affordable smart lock solutions built for modern hospitality. Some operators use smart locks alongside a traditional front desk, while others use them to introduce self-check-in and remote management, or a hybrid approach. 

If you’re considering a smarter approach to property access, this guide covers how modern access control works, why operators are choosing 33 Lock, and how to get started with the right setup for your property.

What is Access Control and Why is it Important?

Access control refers to the methods and systems used to manage who can enter areas of a property, and when. It enables property owners and managers to regulate permissions for different users, including guests, residents, staff, and contractors. A guest can be granted temporary access to their room during their stay, while housekeeping or maintenance staff have broader permissions for maintenance or cleaning. 

Traditional systems rely on physical keys or RFID keycards, which require manual management, on-site coordination, and ongoing costs.

Smart lock systems, like 33 Lock, combine smart locks and software to automate access management and enable operators to assign, revoke, and monitor credentials remotely. Guests can enter using PIN codes, mobile keys, or RFID cards, while staff can be assigned role-based permissions. 

The result is a more flexible, efficient, and secure way to manage entry while reducing the costs, labour, and limitations of traditional keys and keycards.

Why Operators Choose 33 Lock

Hospitality properties have different access control needs than residential homes. Frequent guest turnover, varying user types, and the complexity of managing access across guest rooms, amenities, and common areas are better supported by a system designed around how properties actually operate. 33 Lock was purpose-built for these operational demands. 

Here are a few ways 33 Lock stands out:

1. Flexible Access Methods: Unlock doors using PIN codes, mobile keys, RFID cards, fobs, fingerprints, or a metal backup key. Choose one, or mix and match to support different users, workflows, and property setups.
2. Remote Management: Real-time access logs, notifications, and the ability to grant or revoke access remotely provide greater visibility and control.  
3. Retrofit-Friendly: Upgrade existing locks in minutes, without replacing doors or taking rooms offline. 
4. Affordability: 33 Lock makes smart access control accessible to properties of all sizes, without expensive infrastructure or ongoing subscription fees.
5. Durability and Longevity: Designed and tested for the daily demands of high-traffic hospitality environments, with hardware that looks as good as it performs. 
6. Integration-Ready: Connect with PMS platforms and automation software to create and expire guest credentials based on reservation data, freeing staff from manual check-in and check-out tasks. 

How to Get Started with 33 Lock

1. Assess your property’s needs‍

Start by mapping out all entry points that require secure access, such as guest rooms, common areas, staff entrances, amenity spaces, and maintenance or storage areas. Consider who needs access to each area, and when, as this will help determine the permission settings and key types for your property. 

It’s also worth considering how you want your property to operate and the type of experience you want to deliver. Think about factors like staffing, guest experience, after-hours access, and the level of automation you want to introduce over time. 

2. Talk to our team

Contact 33 Lock’s team of experts to discuss your property’s unique needs. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your door count and property setup.

3. Plan your installation

33 Locks are designed for easy installation, with no special tools or certifications required. You can choose to have your in-house maintenance team handle the installation or work with professional installers. If you prefer outside help, we can provide references for trusted installation partners.

4. Integrate your software

Out of the box, 33 Lock is fully integrated with the free TTLock web and mobile applications, allowing access to be managed and monitored from anywhere. From there, you can integrate existing automation tools or develop custom integrations that support your operational workflows. 

5. Train your team

Ensure your team understands how to use the new system, including how to grant access, monitor entry, and assist guests when needed. While the system is user-friendly and intuitive, clear internal processes and training empower staff to confidently manage day-to-day operations.

6. Communicate with guests

Provide guests with clear instructions on how to use the smart locks and access credentials. Proactive communication sets expectations and helps ensure a smooth check-in experience from the start. 

Taking the Next Steps

Upgrading to smart locks is a worthwhile investment in your property’s security, efficiency, and overall experience. With solutions designed specifically for hospitality, 33 Lock makes modernizing access control approachable, affordable, and straightforward. Ready to get started? Talk to our team about the right setup for your property, or request a free quote.

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Watch: How 33 Lock Works

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