Lock rekey is an important issue for any property owner and often pops up when you have some concerns about who might be holding a key and can enter your property.
Also if you’ve lost your keys or just moved into a new place and curious about how it all works we’ve got you covered!
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about lock rekey:
What is lock rekey?
Lock rekey is a process when a locksmith changes the internal pins inside the lock cylinder of a lock so it could be opened with a different key.
Why should I rekey my locks?
Rekeying is often done for security reasons like moving into a new home, lost keys or changing roommates. Lock rekey your ensures that only you have the key that grant access to your property.
How is rekeying different from changing locks?
Rekeying involves altering parts in an existing lock so it works with a new key while changing locks means that the entire lock is being replaced it with a new one.
Can all locks be rekeyed?
Most standard pin tumbler locks can be rekeyed but there are high security locks and smart locks that are not able for rekey.
How long does rekeying take?
For a standard lock it might take between 10 to 30 minutes but it can take longer if the lock is more complex or if there are several locks to be rekeyed.
Do I need to hire a locksmith to rekey my locks?
It is absolutely possible to rekey your locks by yourself and if you have the right tools you can definitely get the job done but hiring a professional locksmith is highly recommended for gettib best results.
How much does it cost?
Price can be different for several reasons like the type of lock and the number of locks needed to be rekeyed.
In generally it’s less expensive than replacing locks and range between $20 – $40 for each lock.
Can I rekey a lock to match an existing key?
Yes, in many cases a lock can be rekeyed to match an existing key as long as the key is compatible with the lock brand and type.
Is rekeying secure?
Lock rekey is a secure way to regain control over who has access to your property as long as it’s done correctly and it will make sure that any old key will not work anymore.
What should I do with old keys after rekeying?
Noting, they are worthless! You can dispose them!
