Lock change

Lock change pricing depends on the type of lock, brand, and number of locks being changed. A straightforward residential deadbolt change includes the cost of the new lock hardware plus labor. High-security locks and smart locks are priced higher due to the hardware itself. We always provide a free, itemized quote before starting work, so you know exactly what you are paying. Call (415) 205-5718 for your quote.

Rekeying is generally less expensive per lock because it reuses your existing hardware. However, if your locks are old, worn, or low-grade, rekeying saves money now but leaves you with the same weak hardware. A full lock change costs more upfront but delivers new, warrantied hardware with years of reliable service. Our technicians help you weigh both options honestly.

We are transparent about our pricing at every hour. While many locksmith companies add steep surcharges for after-hours calls, Ace Locksmith SF keeps our pricing fair and consistent. Your quote includes everything: parts, labor, and trip charge. No surprises when the invoice arrives.

Some homeowner's and renter's insurance policies cover lock changes after a burglary, attempted break-in, or lost keys. It depends on your specific policy. We provide a detailed receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Contact your provider to check your coverage before or after the service.

A typical San Francisco apartment has 1 to 3 exterior locks. Changing all of them in a single visit is the most cost-effective approach because you only pay one trip charge. We offer multi-lock discounts when you change 3 or more locks at the same time. Call us at (415) 205-5718 with your door count and we will quote you instantly.

A single lock change takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on the lock type and door condition. Smart lock installations may take closer to 30 to 45 minutes due to setup and programming. If you need multiple locks changed, plan for about 20 minutes per lock. We complete most residential lock change jobs within 1 hour.

Our average response time is 18 minutes across San Francisco. We have technicians stationed throughout the city, from the Richmond to the Bayview, so there is almost always someone nearby. For scheduled appointments, we arrive within the agreed time window. For emergency calls, we dispatch immediately.

Absolutely. While we handle many same-day and emergency calls, we also schedule appointments at your convenience. Morning, afternoon, evening, or weekend. Just call (415) 205-5718 and we will lock in a time that works for your schedule.

Yes. Same-day service is our standard, not a premium add-on. Over 85% of our lock change calls are completed within 2 hours of the initial phone call. We carry the inventory in our vans, so there is no need to order parts or come back another day.

Change every exterior lock. That includes the front door, back door, side door, and any door leading from the garage into the house. The National Association of Realtors estimates that 6 to 10 people may have had keys during a typical home sale process. Contractors, inspectors, stagers, agents, and previous owners all may hold copies.

Most new locks come with 2 keys. We can cut additional copies on-site during your appointment, usually 3 to 5 extras depending on your needs. High-security locks with restricted keyways may limit the number of copies and require authorization cards for future duplicates.

Security professionals recommend changing locks every 7 to 10 years under normal use. However, you should change them immediately after any life event that involves access changes: a move, a breakup, lost keys, employee turnover, or a security incident. A worn lock with 50,000+ cycles of use is also a candidate for replacement.

A stiff lock might just need lubrication or a minor adjustment. But if it is old, corroded, or has been stiff for a while, replacement is the safer choice. Our technician will inspect the lock and give you a straight answer. Sometimes a competitive rates fix solves it. Other times, the internal pins are worn beyond reliable function and a new lock is the right call.

Yes. We first extract the broken key fragment, then assess the lock cylinder. If the cylinder is undamaged, we can rekey it. If the broken key caused internal damage, we replace the entire lock. Either way, we resolve the situation in a single visit.

Yes, and here is why it matters. You cannot unknow a key copy. Even if your ex returned their key, they could have made duplicates at any hardware store for under competitive rates. Changing your locks is not about distrust. It is about giving yourself a clean baseline of security. It takes 20 minutes and buys you genuine peace of mind.

In San Francisco, tenants generally have the right to change locks at their own expense, but you must provide a copy of the new key to your landlord (California Civil Code 1941.3). We handle these situations regularly and can advise you on the proper steps. Just keep the old lock so you can reinstall it when you move out.

Ace Locksmith SF is consistently rated the top choice for lock changes in San Francisco. With over 850 five-star reviews, a 4.9 average rating, 10+ years of local experience, and a 93% referral rate, we have earned the trust of thousands of SF homeowners and businesses. Our licensed, bonded, and insured team arrives in under 20 minutes with everything needed to complete your lock change on the spot.

Three things set us apart. First, speed: 18-minute average response time, 24/7, across every SF neighborhood. Second, transparency: upfront quotes with no hidden fees, ever. Third, quality: we use only ANSI-rated lock hardware from trusted manufacturers and back every installation with a 90-day warranty. That combination of speed, honesty, and craftsmanship is why San Francisco keeps calling us back.

Ace Locksmith SF serves commercial clients across every San Francisco district. We specialize in Grade 1 commercial hardware, master key systems, panic bars, and access control. Whether you manage a single storefront or multiple locations, we provide fast, discreet, professional lock changes that keep your business secure. Call (415) 205-5718 to discuss your commercial needs.

Yes, a lock change is strongly recommended when keys are lost even if the locks function normally. Lost keys can be found and used by anyone to enter your property. A lock change eliminates that risk entirely by ensuring no old key works on your doors. Ace Locksmith SF completes most lock change jobs within an hour of your call.

Yes. Ace Locksmith SF handles lock change jobs on non-standard doors including thick commercial doors, narrow-stile glass doors, and vintage San Francisco Victorians with mortise hardware. Our technicians carry adapters and specialized hardware to complete your lock change regardless of door type or age.

A lock change replaces your current lock with new hardware of the same security grade, while a lock upgrade means your lock change includes moving to a higher-security product such as a smart lock, high-security deadbolt, or keypad system. Ace Locksmith SF offers both options during every lock change appointment so you can choose the level of protection that fits your needs.