Rekey or replace your locks? A guide for new homeowners, landlords and businesses
How rekeying differs from replacement, when to do which, master key systems, smart locks, pricing questions and checking the locksmith first.
Moving into a new home, losing a set of keys, letting go of an employee or ending a tenancy all raise the same question: who else has a key? Rekeying and replacing locks are two answers, and choosing the right one can save money. Here is how they differ and what to expect from a licensed locksmith.
Rekeying
Rekeying changes the inside of the existing lock cylinder, the small pins that match the cuts on a key, so old keys no longer work and new keys do. The lock body and the hardware you see stay the same. Because no new hardware is needed, rekeying usually costs less than replacement, and a locksmith can set several locks to work with one key at the same visit. Both California and Illinois treat rekeying as locksmith work: California's definition of a locksmith begins with "the business of rekeying" (Bus. & Prof. Code 6980(j)).
Replacing
Replacement swaps the whole lock or deadbolt. It makes sense when the lock is worn, damaged or low quality, when you want a different style or finish, when you want a higher-security cylinder or a smart lock, or when a break-in damaged the door or frame. Replacement costs more because you pay for hardware as well as labor.
When to do which
- New home: rekey all exterior locks unless you also want new hardware. You don't know how many copies of the old keys exist.
- Lost keys: rekey, especially if the keys were with something showing your address.
- Roommate, tenant or employee leaves: rekey the locks they could open.
- Break-in or damage: replace damaged hardware and reinforce the strike plate and frame.
- Upgrading security: replace with better hardware; ask the locksmith to explain what the upgrade protects against.
Master key systems
Offices, apartment buildings and schools often use a master key system, which California defines as a system in which a lock "can be operated by its own individual key and can also be operated by a key that can operate other locks" (Bus. & Prof. Code 6980(o)). Designing one is skilled work: ask who will keep the key chart and how keys will be controlled. California prohibits employees of retail stores that cut keys from designing or implementing master key systems (6980.12).
Smart locks and access control
Keypad and smart locks remove the key-copy problem but add others: codes shared too widely, batteries, connectivity and app accounts. When a smart lock or access-control system is wired into an alarm system, the work may be done by a licensed alarm company; California exempts alarm licensees from locksmith licensing only for electronic locks or access control devices controlled by an alarm system and installed or serviced with it (Bus. & Prof. Code 7590.2(c)).
Bigger jobs
For work at one site worth more than $500, BSIS notes that a California locksmith company also needs a Contractors State License Board license (for example C-28, lock and security equipment). For a whole-building rekey or new hardware throughout, ask for both license numbers and a written estimate.
Key control
Ordinary keys can be copied at most hardware stores and kiosks, whatever is stamped on them. If controlling copies matters, for example in a rental property or an office, ask a locksmith about restricted or patented key systems, where blanks are available only through authorized dealers who check that the person ordering a copy is authorized. Keep a written record of who holds which key, and collect keys when people leave. When you can't account for keys, rekeying is the reliable fix.
After a burglary
Call the police first and don't touch the damaged area until they have seen it. Photograph the damage for your insurer and keep every receipt for repairs. Burglars often force the door frame rather than the lock, so ask the locksmith or a carpenter about reinforcing the frame and strike plate with longer screws as well as replacing damaged hardware. If any keys were taken, or a spare was hidden outside, rekey every lock those keys could open.
Getting a fair price
- Ask for the total: service call, labor per lock, any parts and any after-hours charge.
- Ask whether the locksmith can rekey your existing locks rather than sell you new ones, and why if not.
- Ask how many keys are included and what extra keys cost.
- Get an itemized invoice with the company name, address and license number.
What a visit usually involves
For a rekey, the locksmith removes each cylinder, replaces the pins to match a new key, tests every lock with the new keys and cuts the number of copies you asked for. Plan for a short visit for a typical house, longer if locks are old, stiff or of mixed brands. Gather every lock you want on the same key, including garage side doors and any keyed deadbolts, before the locksmith arrives so they can be done in one trip.
Landlords and tenants
Many leases and local ordinances address who may change locks and when. If you rent, check your lease and local rules before changing locks, and give your landlord a key if the lease requires it. Landlords can rekey between tenants at modest cost.
Check the locksmith first
Every company on this site holds a current locksmith company or agency license in California or Illinois. Look it up here, confirm it on the DCA License Search (California) or IDFPR License Look-Up (Illinois), and ask the technician for a registration card when they arrive.
General information only, current as of the date above. The information on Licensed Locksmith Check is not a recommendation or a guarantee of anyone's work. A license record shows registration status on the date shown, not workmanship, insurance coverage at the time of your job, or suitability for your project. Confirm license, insurance and permits directly before you hire. Rules and programs change; check the official sources linked in this guide.