Rekeying is the fastest, most affordable way to make your old keys useless and get a fresh set of keys. The lock stays in place — only the internal pins change. It takes 10-15 minutes per lock and costs a fraction of full replacement.
Whether you've just moved into a new home, a roommate has moved out, you've lost a key, or you want all your locks on a single key, rekeying is usually the right first step. Our locksmiths can rekey all your exterior locks in one visit and key them alike — one key for every door.
What's Included
Full Home Rekeying
Rekey all exterior locks in one visit. Make old keys useless and get a fresh set. Typically 30-45 minutes for a 3-door home.
Keying Alike
Have multiple locks with different keys? We can rekey them all to operate with a single key. One key for every door — no more fumbling.
Lock Rekeying After Moving
The #1 reason people rekey. You don't know who has copies of the old key — neighbours, contractors, the previous owner. Rekeying makes all old keys useless instantly.
Post-Incident Rekeying
After a break-in, a lost key, or a relationship change, rekeying restores your security immediately. Old keys stop working the moment the rekey is done.
Commercial Rekeying
Rekey your business when employees leave, when you move into a new space, or after a security incident. Master key systems can be rekeyed too.
SmartKey Rekeying
Kwikset SmartKey locks can be rekeyed by homeowners in 30 seconds. We can rekey them too, or help you switch to a more secure brand.
When to Call a Rekeying Services
- You just moved into a new home or apartment
- A roommate, tenant, or employee with access has left
- You lost a key and want to make sure no one can use it
- You want all your locks on the same key
- After a break-in or attempted break-in
- You gave a key to someone temporarily and want it back
- After a relationship change (breakup, divorce)
Cost of Rekeying Services Services
Typical industry price ranges. Actual pricing is set by the responding locksmith.
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Rekeying (per lock) | $40 – $100 |
| 3 locks rekeyed to one key | $120 – $300 |
| 4 locks rekeyed to one key | $160 – $400 |
| After-hours rekeying | Add $50 – $100 |
| Commercial rekeying (per lock) | $40 – $100 |
| SmartKey rekeying (Kwikset) | $40 – $75 |
These are typical industry averages. Your locksmith will confirm the exact price before starting any work.
FAQ
What does rekeying mean?
Rekeying changes the internal pins of a lock so that a different key operates it. Your old key stops working, and you get new keys. The lock hardware stays in place — only the pins change.
How much does rekeying cost?
Typically $40-$100 per lock. For a home with 3 exterior doors, budget $120-$300. A locksmith can rekey multiple locks to a single key in one visit at no extra charge.
Can I rekey my own locks?
Kwikset SmartKey locks can be rekeyed by homeowners in about 30 seconds using the included tool. Most other brands (Schlage, Yale, Medeco) require a locksmith with a pin kit. If you have multiple locks, a locksmith can key them alike in one visit.
Is it better to rekey or replace locks?
Rekeying is better when your locks work fine and you just want new keys (after moving, a lost key, or a roommate leaving). Replacing is better when locks are old, damaged, or you want to upgrade security. Rekeying is cheaper ($40-$100 vs $75-$250+ per lock).
How long does rekeying take?
A locksmith can rekey a single lock in 10-15 minutes. For a whole house (3-4 locks), expect 30-45 minutes. All locks can be keyed to operate with a single key during the same visit.
Related Articles & Guides
Learn more about rekeying services with these in-depth guides:
What rekeying means, how it works, when you need it, and how much it costs.
Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: Which Is Right for You?A side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
How Rekeying Works: A Step-by-Step GuideThe complete step-by-step process, from cylinder removal to pin replacement.
Should You Rekey Your Locks After Moving?Why rekeying should be your #1 priority on moving day.