How much does Rekeying cost?

If you’ve recently moved into a new home or lost your keys, your next call should be to a locksmith who can rekey the door locks so former residents or someone who finds your keys can’t let themselves in. 

During the rekeying process, the locksmith will change the internal lock mechanism so that the old key no longer works. Lock rekeying is cheaper than replacing the existing lock, and just as effective at ensuring your home’s security, provided that the old lock is still in good shape. 

You may also consider rekeying if you have different keys for your front door, back door, and garage door, so that they all match. (To make matching locks with one master key, they must all be from the same manufacturer, like Schlage, Kwikset, or Yale.) 

While homeowners can DIY the rekeying of smart locks, keypad locks, and other keyless lock systems, it’s best to hire a local locksmith service to rekey physical locks. (Read more on the Cost of electronic/smart lock installation.)

These professionals have the tools and experience to make sure that your rekeyed locks are just as secure as when they were first installed. Read on to understand the cost of rekeying locks in your home.

Before you hire a pro, check out How to find a good locksmith.

Locksmiths’ hourly rate averages $50–100 during normal business hours and $150–250 for after-hours and emergency service. In addition to their hourly rate, most locksmiths also charge a trip fee, which averages $75. Taking into account their minimum fee plus the labor hours involved, the national average cost of rekeying is $140.

Locksmiths will bring a rekey kit that’s specific to your home’s brand of door knob, lever, or deadbolt, so it helps to provide this information when requesting a quote.

For more, read Expert tips for securing your house or apartment.

Here are a few things that can increase the cost of rekeying.

Lockout services. The cost of rekeying may increase if you’ve lost the key, commonly referred to as a lockout. Without a working key, the locksmith must force the lock open to rekey it. The average cost of lockout service during normal business hours is $125–200.

Emergency calls. After-hours or holiday calls will incur an additional fee—expect to pay $95 more, on average.

Location. Typically, locksmiths charge an average of $75 just to come to your home, known as a trip fee or service-call charge. If you live far from the locksmith’s normal service area, the price can be $150 or more. 

Ask for bundle discounts. Your locksmith might reduce their per-lock rate for rekeying multiple locks, so be sure to ask. 

Book multiple lock services for one visit. If you need rekeying, new keys, a new lock installed, and/or lock repair, book them during the same visit to save on service-call costs over multiple visits. Need your mailbox lock changed? Check out the Cost of mailbox lock services. 

Check your insurance coverage. Some homeowners insurance policies cover rekeying, lock installations, and lost keys. Renter’s insurance commonly covers rekeying due to lost keys or damaged locks.

Is the cost of rekeying covered by insurance?

Some homeowners and renters insurance policies cover the replacement of lost keys and the cost of rekeying or replacing locks, so check your policy.  

Is rekeying illegal?

Rekeying is perfectly legal for homeowners. Renters should ask their landlord for permission before rekeying. The terms of your lease may forbid it, and some states even have restrictions regarding this.

Is lock replacement cheaper than rekeying?

Replacing your house locks is typically much more expensive than rekeying. The average cost for a new lock and the labor required to install it could be $400, compared to the average cost to rekey a lock at $140. However, if the locks themselves are in poor working condition, you may have to replace the locks instead of rekeying them.

Find a rekeying professional in your area.

Cost of mailbox lock services

Cost of electronic/smart lock installation

How to find a good locksmith

Expert tips for securing your house or apartment