What Is Rekeying and When Do You Need It?

Rekeying Explained in Plain English

Rekeying is the process of changing a lock's internal pins so that a new key is needed to open it. The old key stops working. The lock hardware stays in place — only the internal pin configuration changes.

It's like changing the password on your lock without buying a new computer.

How Rekeying Works

Inside a standard pin tumbler lock, there are 5-6 pin chambers. Each chamber contains a spring, a driver pin, and a key pin. The key pins are cut to match the heights of your key's bumps (bitting).

When the correct key is inserted, all key pins are pushed to the shear line, and the lock turns. When the wrong key is inserted, the pins don't align, and the lock won't turn.

Rekeying replaces the key pins with pins of different heights to match a new key's bitting. The old key no longer aligns the pins correctly, so it stops working. The new key does.

A locksmith can rekey most standard locks in 10-15 minutes per lock. The process requires a pin kit (a set of pins of various heights) and a key cut to the new bitting.

When You Need Rekeying

1. You Moved Into a New Home

This is the #1 reason people rekey. You don't know who has a copy of the old key — the previous owner, a neighbor, a contractor, a housekeeper, a real estate agent. Rekeying makes all old keys useless instantly.

2. A Roommate or Tenant Moved Out

They may have made copies. Even on good terms, it's smart to rekey when someone who had access leaves.

3. You Lost a Key

If a key is missing — lost, stolen, or unaccounted for — rekeying ensures no one who finds it can use it. This is especially important for exterior doors.

4. You Want All Locks on the Same Key

If your home has 3 exterior doors with different keys, a locksmith can rekey all three to operate with a single key. This is called "keying alike." Much more convenient than carrying 3 keys.

5. A Key Was Given to Someone Temporarily

If you gave a key to a contractor, house sitter, or cleaner and they've finished the job, rekeying ensures they can't get back in.

6. After a Relationship Change

A breakup, divorce, or falling-out with someone who had a key. Rekeying provides peace of mind and physical security.

7. After a Break-In or Attempted Break-In

If someone tried to force your door, the lock may be damaged. A locksmith can assess whether rekeying is sufficient or if the lock needs replacement.

When You DON'T Need Rekeying

• Your locks are old or worn — Replace instead. Rekeying doesn't fix mechanical wear.
• You want to upgrade security — Replace with higher-grade locks. Rekeying keeps the same hardware.
• Your locks are damaged — Replace. Rekeying a damaged lock is a waste of money.
• You want smart locks — You need to replace, not rekey.

Rekeying vs Replacing: Quick Comparison

Can You Rekey It Yourself?

Kwikset SmartKey locks: Yes. These are designed for DIY rekeying. You insert the current key, push the SmartKey tool into the small slot, remove the old key, insert the new key, and remove the tool. Done in about 30 seconds per lock.

Schlage, Yale, and most other brands: No. These require a locksmith's pin kit and expertise. The pin sizes must be precisely matched to the new key's bitting, and the cylinder must be disassembled, repinned, and reassembled.

If you have multiple locks: A locksmith can rekey all of them to a single key in one visit — something that's very difficult to do yourself without a pin kit and key-cutting machine.

How Much Does Rekeying Cost?

• Per lock: $40 – $100
• Minimum service call: Some locksmiths charge a trip fee of $35-$75
• Keying alike (multiple locks to one key): Same per-lock rate, no extra charge
• After-hours surcharge: $50 – $100 extra

For a typical home with 3 exterior doors: $120 – $300 for all three locks rekeyed to the same key.

FAQ

Need rekeying services service right now? Call (855) 373-1159 and our 24/7 dispatch center will connect you with a licensed professional near you.