Table of Contents

How Much Does a Locksmith Cost to Rekey a House?

The short answer? Expect to pay between $50 and $150 per lock to have a locksmith rekey your house. This price range is affected by a number of variables, including the type of lock, your location, the time of day the work is performed, and the number of locks you need rekeyed. This initial price typically covers the locksmith’s trip fee and the labor involved in rekeying the lock cylinder. However, let’s dive into the intricacies of locksmith pricing and what factors contribute to the final bill. Understanding these details will allow you to make informed decisions and potentially save money while ensuring your home’s security.

Understanding the Costs of Rekeying: A Deep Dive

Rekeying is the process of changing a lock’s internal mechanism so that it works with a new key, rendering the old keys useless. This is a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire lock, especially when you’ve just moved into a new home, lost your keys, or experienced a break-in. To fully grasp the costs involved, we need to break down the contributing elements.

Key Factors Affecting Rekeying Costs

Type of Lock: Standard pin tumbler locks are the most common and generally the least expensive to rekey. High-security locks, smart locks, and specialized locks with complex mechanisms will naturally command a higher price due to the increased time and expertise required.
Number of Locks: The more locks you need rekeyed, the higher the overall cost will be. However, many locksmiths offer discounted rates for multiple locks, so it’s always worth negotiating a bulk price.
Location, Location, Location: Locksmiths in metropolitan areas or areas with a higher cost of living tend to charge more than those in rural areas. Demand also plays a role – areas with higher crime rates might see increased locksmith prices.
Time of Day and Emergency Services: Calling a locksmith after hours, on a weekend, or during a holiday will almost certainly result in higher charges. Emergency locksmith services typically involve premium rates due to the urgency and inconvenience involved.
Trip Fee/Service Call Fee: Most locksmiths charge a trip fee or service call fee, which covers the cost of traveling to your location. This fee can range from $25 to $75 and is usually added to the final bill, regardless of whether you proceed with the rekeying service.
Rekeying vs. Lock Replacement: While rekeying is usually cheaper than replacing a lock, there are situations where replacement might be more cost-effective. For example, if your locks are old, damaged, or low-quality, replacing them with new, higher-security locks could be a better long-term investment.
Key Duplication: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of duplicating keys after the rekeying process. Each new key typically costs between $2 and $5, depending on the type of key.
The Locksmith’s Experience and Reputation: Established locksmiths with years of experience and a strong reputation might charge more than newer or less experienced locksmiths. However, their expertise can ensure a higher quality of work and greater peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Cost: An Example Scenario

Let’s imagine you need three standard pin tumbler locks rekeyed at your home during regular business hours. Here’s a potential cost breakdown:

Trip Fee: $40
Rekeying Cost per Lock: $60 x 3 = $180
Key Duplication: $3 x 6 (2 keys per lock) = $18
Total Estimated Cost: $40 + $180 + $18 = $238

This is just an example, and the actual cost may vary based on the factors mentioned earlier. It’s always best to get a detailed quote from a locksmith before proceeding with the work.

Getting the Best Value: Tips for Rekeying Your House

Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several locksmiths in your area and compare their prices. Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs, including the trip fee, labor charges, and key duplication fees.
Schedule During Off-Peak Hours: If possible, schedule the rekeying service during regular business hours to avoid paying extra for after-hours or emergency services.
Consider DIY (If You’re Comfortable): If you’re handy and have some basic tools, you can rekey your locks yourself using a rekeying kit. However, it’s important to proceed with caution and ensure you understand the process thoroughly to avoid damaging your locks.
Negotiate a Bulk Discount: If you have multiple locks that need rekeying, try to negotiate a discount with the locksmith.
Check for Licensing and Insurance: Before hiring a locksmith, make sure they are licensed and insured. This will protect you in case of any damage or accidents during the rekeying process.
Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the locksmith’s reputation and quality of service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?

Generally, rekeying is cheaper than replacing locks, especially if your existing locks are in good condition. Rekeying involves changing the internal pins of the lock cylinder, whereas replacement involves installing an entirely new lockset.

2. How long does it take to rekey a lock?

Rekeying a standard pin tumbler lock typically takes 15-30 minutes per lock. More complex locks may take longer.

3. Can I rekey my own locks?

Yes, you can, but it requires some knowledge of lock mechanisms and the right tools (a rekeying kit). If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, it’s best to hire a professional locksmith.

4. What are the benefits of rekeying?

Rekeying offers several benefits, including:

Cost-effectiveness: It’s cheaper than replacing locks.
Security: It renders old keys useless, preventing unauthorized access.
Convenience: You can use the same key for all your locks (if desired).

5. When should I rekey my locks?

You should consider rekeying your locks when:

You move into a new home.
You lose your keys.
You suspect someone has a copy of your keys.
After a break-in.
After a tenant moves out (if you’re a landlord).

6. Do locksmiths guarantee their work?

Reputable locksmiths typically offer a guarantee on their workmanship. Be sure to ask about the guarantee policy before hiring a locksmith.

7. What is a master key system?

A master key system allows a single “master” key to open all locks in a system, while each lock also has its own unique key. This is commonly used in apartment buildings and commercial properties.

8. Can all locks be rekeyed?

Most standard pin tumbler locks can be rekeyed. However, some high-security locks or locks with unique designs may not be rekeyable.

9. What is the difference between rekeying and changing a lock?

Rekeying involves changing the internal pins of a lock so that it works with a new key. Changing a lock involves replacing the entire lockset with a new one.

10. How do I find a reputable locksmith?

Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors.
Check online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau.
Verify their licensing and insurance.
Get a detailed quote before proceeding with the work.

11. What should I do if I’m locked out of my house?

Call a licensed locksmith who offers emergency lockout services. Be prepared to provide proof of ownership or residency.

12. Can a locksmith install new locks?

Yes, locksmiths can install new locks. They can also help you choose the right type of locks for your needs and budget. They can install everything from standard deadbolts to sophisticated smart locks.

By understanding the factors that influence the cost of rekeying and following these tips, you can ensure you get the best value and protect your home’s security. Don’t hesitate to ask a locksmith questions and get a detailed quote before committing to the service. Your peace of mind is worth it!