Rekey your locks — keep the hardware, lose the old keys
New home, lost key, former roommate or contractor with a copy? Rekeying changes the inside of the lock so every old key stops working, and one new key can open every door.
What to know before you call
Rekeying is one of the most useful and least understood things a locksmith does. Instead of replacing the lock, the locksmith takes the cylinder apart and swaps the small pins inside so it matches a new key. The lock looks and works exactly the same — but every key cut for the old pin setup is now useless.
If your locks are in good working order and you just need to control who has a key, rekeying is usually the smarter buy.
When to rekey
Rekey whenever you can't account for every key: right after you buy or move into a home (you don't know how many copies the previous owner handed out), after a lost or stolen key, after a roommate, tenant or employee leaves, or after work crews or a cleaning service had a key.
Rekeying vs. replacing
Rekey when the hardware is sound and you only need new keys. Replace when the lock is worn, damaged, low-security, or you want a different look or feature — a stronger deadbolt, a smart lock, a keypad. A locksmith can tell you which makes sense for each door. See lock installation & replacement.
One key for every door
If your front door, back door and garage entry each take a different key, a locksmith can often rekey them all to the same key — provided they share the same keyway (commonly, the same brand). If they don't, the locksmith can tell you which cylinders would need replacing to get there.
Common lock rekeying questions
What does rekeying a lock actually do?+
Is rekeying cheaper than replacing locks?+
Should I rekey after buying a house?+
Can all my doors use the same key?+
Often needed alongside lock rekeying
One call connects you with a local pro
We connect people with locksmiths in all 50 states. Call and tell us where you are — or find your state first.
- Local to you. A locksmith who covers your area.
- Matched to the job. Someone who does lock rekeying work.
- Upfront pricing. Get the full price before work starts.