Business Details
Your Trusted Locksmith Partner in Chicago
Glavin Security Specialists has been a trusted name in commercial locksmith and security solutions since our founding. We specialize in serving large institutions across Chicago, including office buildings, medical centers, universities, and retail facilities. Our comprehensive Security Control Pathway process provides detailed assessments of building lock and key systems, ensuring optimal security for our clients. As a licensed locksmith agency in Illinois and one of only two union shops in the state, we maintain the highest standards of professionalism and service excellence. Our team of certified experts holds credentials including Certified Master Locksmith (CML), Certified Fire Door Assembly Inspector (FDAI), and Electronic Access Control certifications. We take pride in developing industry-leading training programs for maintenance personnel and engineers, which are now used by major unions like IUOE Local 399 and SEIU Local 1.With decades of combined experience, our leadership team brings unparalleled expertise in door hardware, access control systems, and security camera installations. Our reputation as the 'Mayo Clinic of locksmith companies' reflects our commitment to solving complex security challenges with innovative solutions. We maintain active memberships in professional organizations such as the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399 and the Associated Locksmiths of America. Our proven track record includes prestigious awards like the BOMA/Chicago Affiliate of the Year and Illinois Security Chiefs Association Chairman's Award.
Services
Electronic Access Control
Security Camera Systems
Key Systems
Door Systems
Locksmith Training
Highlights and features
- We are one of only two union-certified locksmith agencies in Illinois
- Our team includes Certified Master Locksmiths with decades of experience
- We developed industry-standard training programs for major unions
- We hold specialized certifications in fire door assembly inspection
- Our reputation as the 'Mayo Clinic of locksmith companies' ensures expert solutions
Associations and certifications
- Certified Master Locksmith (CML)
- Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL)
- Certified Fire Door Assembly Inspector (FDAI)
- Door and Hardware Institute
Services
Electronic Access Control
Our electronic access control solutions provide advanced security management for commercial facilities. This service includes system design, installation, and maintenance of keycard entry systems, biometric scanners, and networked access points. We specialize in integrating access control with existing security infrastructure to create comprehensive protection systems that meet modern security challenges.
Security Camera Systems
We design and install state-of-the-art security camera systems for commercial properties. Our solutions include high-resolution IP cameras, digital video recorders, and remote monitoring capabilities. Our team ensures optimal camera placement for maximum coverage and integrates systems with other security measures to create complete surveillance solutions that enhance facility security.
Key Systems
Our comprehensive key system services include master key system design, high-security keying solutions, and key control management. We provide specialized key systems for commercial facilities that require graduated access levels while maintaining strict security protocols. Our solutions incorporate both traditional mechanical keys and modern electronic key systems for maximum flexibility.
Door Systems
We offer complete door system solutions including installation and maintenance of commercial doors, frames, and hardware. Our services cover door closers, hinges, protective plates, and security-rated door assemblies. We specialize in fire-rated door systems that meet safety codes while maintaining maximum security for commercial facilities.
Locksmith Training
Our industry-leading locksmith training programs develop skilled professionals for commercial security roles. We offer both basic and advanced training in lock systems, access control, and security hardware. The curriculum is used by major unions including IUOE Local 399 and SEIU Local 1, focusing on practical skills for maintaining and upgrading commercial security systems.
People
Tom Glavin
President
With over 45 years in the industry, Tom has progressed from technician to President. He developed training programs used by major unions and brings extensive leadership experience to our security solutions.
Pat Glavin
Finance Director
Handling finance and HR for over 40 years, Pat ensures operational stability while maintaining our family-oriented workplace culture that retains employees for decades.
Kelvin Long
Operations Manager
With 35+ years at Glavin, Kelvin manages daily operations and shares expertise through guest lectures on security systems and leadership development.
Jason Shelton
Lead Technician
As our technical expert for 30+ years, Jason specializes in complex security solutions and teaches electronic access control systems to union members.
Alan Thomas
Security Consultant
Bringing 50 years of industry experience, Al develops customized security solutions for major accounts while mentoring our team on advanced security technologies.
Questions
What commercial security services do you offer?
We provide electronic access control systems, security camera installations, key system management, door hardware solutions, and specialized locksmith training programs for commercial clients.
Are your locksmiths certified professionals?
Yes, our team holds multiple certifications including Certified Master Locksmith (CML), Certified Fire Door Assembly Inspector (FDAI), and Electronic Access Control certifications.
Do you provide security solutions for medical facilities?
Yes, we specialize in security systems for medical centers including access control for restricted areas and compliance-focused door hardware solutions.
What makes you different from other locksmith companies?
We're one of only two union-certified locksmith agencies in Illinois with decades of experience solving complex security challenges for major institutions.
Do you offer training programs for facility staff?
Yes, we developed industry-standard locksmith training programs used by IUOE Local 399 and SEIU Local 1 for maintenance personnel and engineers.
What professional organizations are you affiliated with?
We maintain memberships in the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399, Associated Locksmiths of America, and Door and Hardware Institute.
Reviews (6)
Theresa B.
Mar 04, 2021
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Polite & Friendly customer service who were very helpful finding the key that I needed based on the type of lock that was not replaceable.
Jack O.
Nov 23, 2019
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I have called Glavin for help many times for many years. They are by far the best, in fact I tell people - They Secure Chicago. Quality work by quality people. Only the best products are used, and again highly trained locksmiths.
Harry R.
Aug 13, 2018
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I had never heard of this business until I had to get a hold of them last week. I'm not surprised their rating is just three stars. I got home and my key got stuck in the lock and almost broke. I gave them a call to see if I'd be able to get a key made that day; the woman who answered the phone said they wouldn't be able to make a key that day as no one was available. She also told me that I'd have to have my landlord call in as she's the only person authorized to request keys (at least this part makes sense).
The worst part about this experience is that my landlord contacted them (just an hour or two after I had called in) and she was told that they could have someone over to take care of the issue but because it was so late in the day, it would be considered an emergency and the charge would go up from $279 (non-emergency) to $460. How convenient-they weren't able to help earlier in the day but when they can charge almost double someone is suddenly available. This place is shady and I'd avoid them if you can. But hey, at least the locksmith was friendly.
The worst part about this experience is that my landlord contacted them (just an hour or two after I had called in) and she was told that they could have someone over to take care of the issue but because it was so late in the day, it would be considered an emergency and the charge would go up from $279 (non-emergency) to $460. How convenient-they weren't able to help earlier in the day but when they can charge almost double someone is suddenly available. This place is shady and I'd avoid them if you can. But hey, at least the locksmith was friendly.
Kelly C.
Mar 09, 2017
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Very unresponsive to customer requests. Initial call was made on 2/13. I called on 2/20 to see if anyone was coming out, someone came out on 2/23. No contact was made until 3/6 when I emailed again for the proposal. Was followed up via email that they would not be moving forward three weeks after contact was made. For the record, im not upset that they are opted to not do the work, but a phone call would have been far more professional and customer service orientated, especially given the time lapse.
West L.
Nov 19, 2015
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We live right around the block. Thought I'd use a local West Loop company for getting our locks re-keyed. We have a new placed and want to re-key the locks, all to the same new key. Basic Schlage handles and deadbolts. 3 handles, 3 deadbolts, and install 3 pry bars. THEY WANT $1,000 to do this job! Yes, that is correct.$1,000. We already have the handles and deadbolts. We did not want them to install them.
Just re-key them. We could bring them to them as well so there's not even a house-call visit. $1,000! I echo the other yelp review about their ridiculous prices. They may be get good reviews for copying a key or special unique lock services. I would NEVER recommend for basic re-keying jobs.
Just re-key them. We could bring them to them as well so there's not even a house-call visit. $1,000! I echo the other yelp review about their ridiculous prices. They may be get good reviews for copying a key or special unique lock services. I would NEVER recommend for basic re-keying jobs.
Raven S.
Nov 11, 2014
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We waited two weeks for a quote and had to follow up with them twice before receiving the quote. It then took another two weeks just to get a call from the service department to schedule the job. Once the service took place, there was an issue with a part and was another week and half before job completed.
