Security you can trust. Five generations strong.
From a single key to a campus-wide access control system, the Phillips family has protected homes, businesses, banks and schools across the Capital Region for more than 135 years.
Every lock, key and security system — under one roof.
We sell, install, service and monitor the industry's most dependable security products, with the know-how to keep them working for decades.
Residential Locks
Rekeying, new deadbolts, knob & lever sets, decorative hardware and digital entry for your home.
Learn moreCommercial Hardware
Exit devices, door closers, master key systems and ADA-compliant hardware for businesses and institutions.
Learn moreAccess Control
Card, fob and keypad systems — web-based, server-based or hosted — from Millennium, Salto, Identicard and more.
Learn moreAlarms & Monitoring
Qolsys IQ Panel 4 and DSC systems with smartphone arming, alerts, automation and professional monitoring.
Learn moreSafes & Vaults
New and used safes from Gardall and AMSEC — plus safe opening, combination changes and repair.
Learn moreCCTV & Intercoms
Commercial camera systems and video intercoms that ring straight to your smartphone. No phone line needed.
Learn more
ResidentialPeace of mind starts at the front door.
Moved into a new home? Lost a key? Ready for keyless entry? Our technicians re-key, repair and install the right hardware — and we'll explain your options in plain English.
- Locks re-keyed
- Deadbolts installed & repaired
- Digital & keyless locks
- High-security locks
- Auto keys & remotes copied
- Home safes & alarms
Commercial & institutionalTrusted by banks, schools and government offices.
For decades the Phillips family has serviced the Capital District's banks, schools and public buildings. We design key control and access systems that scale from one door to an entire campus.
- Master key systems
- Access control & card readers
- Exit devices & panic hardware
- Door closers & ADA operators
- CCTV & video intercoms
- Auditable locks & EMS boxes
Your whole system, in your pocket.
With the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 or DSC PowerSeries, you can arm and disarm, watch cameras, lock doors and check the thermostat from a free smartphone app — with 24/7 professional monitoring behind it.
Remote arm & disarm
Control your system from anywhere.
Live camera view
Check in on home or business.
Text & email alerts
Know the moment something happens.
Home automation
Locks, lights & thermostats via Z-Wave.
Built for the places that can't afford a weak link.
Homeowners
Rekeys, deadbolts, smart locks and alarm systems.
Banks & Credit Unions
Safes, vault service and high-security key control.
Schools & Colleges
Master keying, access control and lockdown-ready hardware.
Government Offices
Auditable locks, card access and restricted keyways.
EMS & Fire
Gard Tec boxes that secure and audit medication access.
Healthcare
ADA door operators, touchless entry and access logs.
Property Managers
Tenant turnover rekeys and master key systems.
Retail & Offices
CCTV, intercoms, exit devices and door closers.
From a Madison Avenue lock shop to a five-generation security company.
Tevia Phillips opened a small locksmith shop in Albany around 1889. Today his great-great-grandson Gary leads the family business from Colvin Avenue — same name, same craftsmanship, far more technology.
- 1889Tevia Phillips opens on Madison Ave
- 1941Phillips Hardware grows on South Pearl St
- 1971W & E Phillips Locksmith, Inc. is formed
- 2006Move to our renovated home at 24 Colvin Ave
Stop by our Colvin Avenue showroom.
Browse locks, hardware and safes in person, get keys cut while you wait, and talk with a locksmith face to face.
Plan your visit
Industry-leading products, installed right.
Frequently asked questions
Should I re-key or replace my locks?
If your locks work well and you simply want old keys to stop working — after a move, a lost key or a staff change — re-keying is fast and affordable. If the hardware is worn, damaged, or you want better security or keyless entry, we'll recommend a replacement that fits your door.
What is a master key system?
A master key system lets each person carry one key that opens only the doors they need, while managers hold a key that opens everything. We design, pin and document systems for offices, schools, apartment buildings and campuses — and keep them organized as you grow.
Do you sell and open safes?
Yes. We stock new and used residential and commercial safes for fire, data and burglary protection — including Gardall and AMSEC — and we open, service, repair and change combinations on existing safes.
How far do you travel?
Our eight service vehicles cover the Tri-City area and roughly a 50-mile radius around Albany, including Albany, Schenectady, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Columbia counties. Larger commercial projects can extend farther — just ask.
Can I monitor my alarm system from my phone?
Absolutely. Our Qolsys IQ Panel 4 and DSC PowerSeries systems connect to a free smartphone app so you can arm, disarm, view cameras, control locks and receive text or email alerts from anywhere.
Where do I park when I visit?
Please use our parking lot and customer entrance on Lincoln Avenue, right behind our 24 Colvin Avenue building.
Need a lock, key or security upgrade?
Call our Albany shop, stop by the Colvin Ave showroom, or have one of our service vans come to you anywhere in the Capital Region.