Trying to decide rekey vs change locks for your home or rental? Short version: rekey when the hardware is good and you just need new keys to work in it, replace when the lock itself is worn, damaged, or you want a different type. Call Now: (415) 205-5718 and we’ll tell you which one your lock actually needs.
We get asked rekey vs change locks questions constantly, usually after a move-in, a lost key, or a breakup where somebody still has a copy. Both jobs get you a lock that your old key won’t open. The difference is what’s happening inside the lock and what it costs.
Rekey vs Change Locks: What Each One Actually Does
Rekeying means we open the existing lock cylinder and swap the internal pins so a new key operates it, while the old key stops working. The lock body, faceplate, and handle stay exactly the same. This runs $55–$95 per lock. It’s the right call when the lock itself works fine, closes smoothly, and isn’t damaged.
Changing locks means removing the whole lock and installing a new one. This runs $80–$180 per lock. It’s the right call when the lock is old, sticky, damaged, doesn’t match your other doors, or you’re upgrading to a smart lock or higher security grade.
When Rekeying Is the Better Choice
Rekeying makes sense after moving into a place with locks in good shape, after a roommate moves out and keeps a key, after losing a key when the lock itself is fine, or when you want every lock in the house keyed to one key (see our master key system service for larger properties). It’s faster and cheaper than replacement, and it doesn’t change how your door looks or feels. In buildings with many tenants, a multi-tenant master key system means you only rekey one suite at a time.
When You Actually Need New Locks
Replace instead of rekey when the lock sticks, doesn’t fully throw the bolt, shows visible wear or rust, was damaged in a break-in attempt, or when you want to move up to a smart lock, a keyless entry keypad, or a high-security cylinder. A rekey can’t fix a mechanically worn lock; it only changes what key opens it.
Can You Mix Both?
Yes, and it’s common. If one door’s lock is worn out but the others are fine, we’ll replace that one and rekey the rest to match, so you end up with a single working key for the whole place.
A Quick Way to Decide
If you’re still unsure in the rekey vs change locks decision, ask yourself two questions. Does the lock open and close smoothly with the key you currently have, with no sticking, grinding, or hesitation? And are you happy with the type of lock you already have, or do you want to upgrade to something different, like a smart lock or a higher security cylinder? If both answers point to “the lock itself is fine,” rekeying is almost always the cheaper, faster answer. If either answer is no, replacement is worth the extra cost, since a rekey won’t fix a mechanical problem or change what kind of lock is on your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rekey vs change locks a decision I can make myself, or do you inspect first?
We always take a quick look at the lock first. If it’s in good shape, we’ll tell you rekeying is enough rather than upselling a replacement you don’t need.
How long does rekeying take compared to a full lock change?
Rekeying a standard lock usually takes 10–15 minutes per lock. A full replacement takes a bit longer since the whole unit comes out and a new one goes in.
Do I need to rekey after every tenant turnover?
Yes, that’s standard practice for rentals. See our guide on rekeying between tenants for the full rundown.
Can smart locks be rekeyed?
Most smart locks use electronic codes instead of physical keys, so “rekeying” there usually means resetting the code, not a mechanical rekey.
Not sure which one your door needs? Call Now: (415) 205-5718 and we’ll tell you straight, no upsell.
Licensed locksmith (#7929) · Open 7 AM–11:30 PM, 7 days a week · 15–20 min response in SF