Rekey or replace locks after losing keys, which makes more sense?
In most cases, rekeying makes more sense. The locks you already have stay on the door, but they are changed so the lost keys no longer work and new keys do. Replace the lock instead when it is worn, damaged, an older or poor-quality unit, or when you simply want something better.
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The deciding factor is the condition of the lock, not the lost key. If the lock works smoothly and is a type that can be rekeyed, rekeying gets you the same security as a new lock with less to buy. If it can't be rekeyed, the cylinder or the whole lock is replaced.
What decides between rekeying and replacing
A lost key is a key that someone else could use. Rekeying fixes that by making the old key useless. A found key does not change this, because you can't know who handled it in the meantime. Once the locks are changed, the old keys are just pieces of metal, whether they turn up or not.
Replacement comes into it when the lock itself is the problem: it sticks, the key turns stiffly, parts are loose or damaged, or the lock is not one that can be rekeyed. It also makes sense if you were already planning to upgrade the hardware. A locksmith will look at each lock and tell you which route fits it.
The factors that shape the work and its cost are the type of lock, how many doors are involved, the parts needed, the time of day, and whether new keys must be cut or programmed. Any key that carries a chip, such as many car keys, is a separate job from the door locks.
What you can check yourself
- List everything on the ringWrite down every key that was on it: front and back doors, garage, mailbox, shed, office, shared entry and any car key. This tells the locksmith exactly what needs attention.
- Note whether anything showed your addressA tag, a wallet, a bag or paperwork stored with the keys means the lost keys are best treated as unaccounted for. That points firmly towards changing the locks rather than waiting.
- Look at how your locks feelIf a lock already sticks, grinds or is hard to turn, mention it. It may be better replaced than rekeyed.
- Find your spare keys and IDCheck that you have at least one working key for any car and, if you're locked out, something showing your name and address. You will need identification for any lockout.
- Decide how many keys you wantWork out how many new keys the household needs, so they can all be cut together and every door put on one key.
When to call a locksmith
Call once you've looked in the obvious places and still can't account for the keys, or sooner if they were lost with your address on them. Rekeying and replacing locks is work for a locksmith, and if a car key was on the ring, tell them at the start so both jobs are planned together. Call (866) 690-5848 and we will arrange a visit with an independent locksmith.
If you're locked out as well, the locksmith checks identification and proof that you are entitled to enter the home, premises or vehicle before opening anything. A driver's licence showing the address, a lease, a utility bill, vehicle registration or insurance, or a neighbour or manager who can confirm it will do. The estimate is free: the locksmith looks at the locks, gives you the price, and work starts only once you agree it.
What the locksmith will do
- Rekey the locksWhere the locks are in good condition, they are rekeyed so the lost keys no longer work and the new ones do.
- Replace cylinders or locks where neededIf a lock can't be rekeyed or is worn or damaged, the cylinder or the whole lock is replaced.
- Bring every exterior door onto one keyFront, back and other doors can be set to the same key, so you carry fewer keys.
- Cut new keys for the householdEnough keys are cut for everyone who needs one, so you are not left with a single copy.
- Deal with mailbox and shared-entry locksLocks that were on the same ring, such as a mailbox or a shared entrance, can be addressed in the same visit where that is possible.
Related questions
- Is rekeying as secure as new locks?
- For a lock in good condition, rekeying means the old key no longer works, which is what you need after losing keys. A new lock is only the better choice if the existing one is worn, damaged or of a kind you want to upgrade.
- Do I still need to change the locks if I find the keys later?
- A found key does not undo the loss, because you can't be sure who has had access to it. Having the locks changed gives you certainty that only your current keys work.
- What if my car key was on the same ring?
- That makes it two jobs: the door locks and the car key. Mention everything that was on the ring when you call so both can be planned together.
- Does the locksmith need to be licensed?
- Locksmith licensing varies by state. Some states license or register locksmiths, others leave it to cities or counties, and some do not regulate the trade at all. Check with your own state or city for the rules where you live.
- Will I know the price before the work starts?
- Yes. The estimate is free, the locksmith gives you the price after looking at the locks, and work begins only once you agree to it.
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