Knowing when to rekey locks starts with a simple question: do you know who can still use a key to your home? Rekeying changes which key operates a compatible lock cylinder. It can address an access concern without replacing every part of the lock.
It does not repair worn hardware or strengthen the door and frame. Before choosing the work, separate a concern about old keys from a problem with the lock’s operation.
Seven situations worth reviewing
You have moved into a home
A handover may provide a set of keys without establishing how many copies exist. Review the exterior doors and ask about changing their keying rather than assuming every previous copy has been returned.
A house key is missing
Think about where the key was lost and whether it could be connected to your address. Explain those circumstances when requesting advice. A lost key changes what you know about access, even if the lock still works normally.
Someone who had a key no longer needs access
Keys may have been shared with relatives, house sitters or other authorized users. When an arrangement ends, decide who should retain access. If you cannot account for the copies, rekeying may be worth discussing.
An authorized occupancy change has occurred
A landlord or property manager may need to review keys following an approved change in occupancy. Confirm authority and applicable tenancy or strata requirements before arranging changes. Rekeying should not be used to prevent someone with a right of access from entering.
Too many copies are unaccounted for
Over time, spare keys can be copied or passed between people. If the key history has become unclear, a new keying arrangement can provide a defined starting point. Keep a record of the new keys and who receives them.
You want compatible doors to share a key
Some homeowners want fewer keys for selected doors. Whether that is possible depends on the locks’ compatibility and condition. The Lock Doc’s residential lock rekeying service considers the cylinders and intended access arrangement before recommending the scope.
A security incident has raised questions about access
After a suspected unauthorized entry, explain what happened and whether any hardware is damaged. Changing keying addresses the old-key question; it does not by itself resolve a damaged latch, insecure frame or faulty door.
When rekeying is not the whole answer
A key that is difficult to turn, a latch that fails to engage or a loose component needs assessment. Ask whether the fault comes from the cylinder, hardware or door alignment.
The Lock Doc’s lock repair service assesses the cause before recommending repair or replacement. Tell the team about operating problems even when your main request is a key change.
Prepare a clear rekeying request
List the affected doors, explain who should have access and gather existing keys when available. Provide photos of the locks and confirm who authorizes the work. Ask which cylinders can be rekeyed, whether any need different work, and what the quote includes.
Afterwards, confirm operation with the new keys and ask how the agreed keying arrangement was tested. Good record keeping helps prevent the same uncertainty returning.
Questions about changing your home’s keys
Does rekeying mean replacing the entire lock?
Rekeying changes the cylinder’s keying where the hardware is compatible and serviceable. Replacement is a separate option for hardware that cannot meet the required use or condition.
Will rekeying fix a lock that sticks?
Not necessarily. Sticking may involve wear, alignment or another fault. Describe the symptoms so repair needs can be assessed alongside the access change.
Can all my doors use one key?
Possibly, but compatibility needs checking. Do not assume different lock types or cylinders can share the same key without an assessment.
Should I rekey every year?
An arbitrary annual schedule does not explain your access needs. Review changes in occupants, missing keys, copy records and lock condition to decide when an assessment is useful.
Plan your home’s new key arrangement
Reviewing who has keys to your Metro Vancouver home? Use the contact page to tell The Lock Doc which doors need attention, or call 236-800-5625. For a non-urgent enquiry, email info@thelockdoc.ca with the key arrangement you want reviewed. Ask which locks can be rekeyed and what the quote includes.