The cost to rekey a house depends on the locks involved, their condition and the complete service scope. Rekeying changes a compatible lock cylinder so an old key no longer operates it; it does not necessarily replace the whole lock. To get a useful quote, count the keyed cylinders and explain whether you want separate keys or one key for several doors.
Count the keyed parts, not just the doors
A door can have more than one keyed lock, such as a deadbolt and a keyed handle. Other entrances may use different hardware. Walk through the property and list each keyed cylinder you want addressed.
Note any damaged, sticky or unreliable locks. A cylinder that can technically be rekeyed may still sit inside worn hardware that needs another kind of work.
Photographs can help the locksmith identify the existing setup, but an assessment may still be needed to confirm the condition and final scope.
Decide whether rekeying solves the problem
Rekeying is relevant when you want to change who can use existing keys—for example, after a move or when keys are no longer accounted for. It can retain suitable hardware while changing the key that operates it.
It does not repair a weakened door, damaged strike or every problem with the lock mechanism. If the door is difficult to close, the cause may involve alignment rather than the keying.
The Lock Doc's residential rekeying service can help assess whether rekeying is appropriate or whether repair or replacement needs consideration.
Check whether one key can serve several locks
Keying several locks alike can simplify a household's keys, but the cylinders must be compatible. Different brands or keyways are not automatically interchangeable.
Tell the locksmith which doors you want on the same key and whether any should remain separate. A garage access door or a separate occupied unit may have different access requirements from the main household entrance.
If compatibility requires replacing a cylinder or other component, that belongs in the quote. Do not assume every existing lock can be matched without additional hardware.
Compare the entire quotation
Ask which cylinders, new keys, mobile attendance and applicable charges are included. Confirm whether any repair or replacement is separate and how a changed scope will be approved.
If you rent, obtain the appropriate authorization and understand key-access obligations before changing the locks. A locksmith also needs to verify that the person requesting the work is entitled to authorize it.
Once the job is complete, test each affected lock with the new key and confirm that the old key no longer operates it. Make a deliberate plan for spare-key holders rather than immediately losing track of the new copies.
Residential keying with The Lock Doc
The Lock Doc provides mobile residential locksmith services across Metro Vancouver. Describe the reason for the key change, the cylinder count and any operating problems when requesting service.
If the question is access rather than a planned security change, its house lockout service addresses that separate need. Getting inside and deciding which keys should work afterward are different parts of the conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Is rekeying the same as replacing a lock?
No. Rekeying changes the cylinder's key operation while retaining suitable hardware.
Can all my doors use one key?
Possibly, but the cylinder and keyway compatibility must be checked.
Will rekeying fix a door that does not latch?
Not necessarily. Door alignment and latch problems need their own assessment.
Should I count a deadbolt and keyed handle separately?
Yes. List both so the quote addresses every keyed cylinder.
Get a scope-based rekey quote
Call 236-800-5625 or contact The Lock Doc to discuss your Metro Vancouver home.