Rekeying vs. Lock Replacement: Which Is Right for Your California or Nevada Home?

Just moved into a new home in Encino, CA (91316)? Had a messy breakup in North Hollywood, CA (91601)? Lost your keys somewhere in Summerlin, NV (89134)? All of these situations call for one thing: securing your locks. But should you rekey your existing locks or replace them entirely?

Top Locksmith CA handles both services daily across Los Angeles and Las Vegas. This guide gives you the honest breakdown of costs, timing, and security benefits so you can make the right decision. Call (818) 987-2214 for a free consultation.

What Is Rekeying?

Rekeying changes the internal pin configuration of your existing lock so that old keys no longer work and a new key does. The lock hardware itself — the knob, deadbolt, handle — stays exactly the same. Only the internal pins are swapped to match a brand-new key.

A professional locksmith disassembles the lock cylinder, removes the existing pin stack, and installs new pins cut to a different key pattern. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes per lock. Our rekeying service is the fastest way to regain control over who has access to your home.

What Is Lock Replacement?

Lock replacement means removing the entire lock mechanism and installing brand-new hardware. You get a completely new lock with a new key. This is necessary when locks are physically damaged, outdated, or when you want to upgrade to higher security or smart lock features.

Top Locksmith CA offers professional lock change services for both residential and commercial properties.

Cost Comparison

Rekeying Costs:

• Per lock: $15 to $40 (plus service call of $30 to $60)
• Average home (4 to 6 locks): $120 to $250 total
• Keying all locks alike (one key fits all): Usually included

Lock Replacement Costs:

• Standard deadbolt: $75 to $200 per lock (hardware + labor)
• High-security lock (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock): $150 to $350 per lock
• Smart lock: $200 to $500 per lock
• Average home (4 to 6 locks): $400 to $1,200 total

Rekeying saves 50 to 70 percent compared to full replacement. For homeowners in Van Nuys, CA (91401), Tarzana, CA (91356), and throughout the San Fernando Valley, rekeying is usually the most cost-effective option when the existing hardware is in good condition.

When to Choose Rekeying

• Moving into a new home: You do not know who has copies of the current keys. Rekeying immediately eliminates that risk.
• After losing keys: If your keys are lost and could potentially be used by someone with bad intentions, rekeying is urgent.
• Roommate or relationship changes: When someone who had keys should no longer have access.
• Wanting one key for all locks: A locksmith can rekey every lock in your home to work with a single key.
• Existing locks are in good shape: If your deadbolts and knobs function smoothly and are a decent security grade, there is no reason to replace them.

When to Choose Lock Replacement

• Damaged or worn locks: Sticky deadbolts, loose knobs, or locks that do not latch properly need replacement.
• Security upgrade: Moving from basic Grade 3 hardware to Grade 1 or Grade 2 provides significantly better protection.
• Smart lock conversion: Keyless entry and remote access require new hardware. Ask about our smart lock installation.
• After a break-in: Compromised locks should be replaced even if they appear functional.
• Aesthetic upgrade: New hardware can transform the look of your doors, especially during a renovation.

Security Comparison

Rekeying provides the same physical security level as before — it only changes access control. If your locks were Grade 3 before rekeying, they remain Grade 3. The security improvement is that unauthorized key holders can no longer enter.

Replacement allows you to upgrade physical security. Grade 1 commercial-grade locks resist picking, bumping, and forced entry far better than standard residential hardware. High-security locks from Medeco and Mul-T-Lock are virtually pick-proof. For properties in high-value neighborhoods of Beverly Hills, CA and Las Vegas, NV, upgrading to premium hardware is a worthwhile investment.

The Best of Both: Our Recommendation

For most homeowners, we recommend a combination approach:

• Replace exterior locks (front door, back door, garage entry) with Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts for maximum security
• Rekey interior locks (bedrooms, office, storage) to match the new exterior keys
• This gives you upgraded security where it matters most while keeping costs reasonable

Top Locksmith CA can assess your current locks and provide an honest recommendation during a free consultation. Call (818) 987-2214 to schedule.

How Long Does Each Service Take?

• Rekeying: 10 to 15 minutes per lock. A full home takes about 1 hour.
• Lock replacement: 15 to 30 minutes per lock. A full home takes 1.5 to 3 hours.

Both services are performed on-site by our mobile locksmith units. There is no need to remove doors or visit a shop. We come to you anywhere in our service area, from Pahrump, NV to Woodland Hills, CA.

DIY vs. Professional Service

Lock replacement is moderately DIY-friendly if you are handy with basic tools. Most new deadbolts come with installation templates and instructions. However, professional installation from Top Locksmith CA ensures proper alignment, reinforced strike plates, and correct deadbolt throw depth — all of which affect actual security performance.

Rekeying is not recommended as a DIY project. It requires specialized pinning kits, knowledge of pin sizes, and experience with lock cylinder disassembly. Improper rekeying can leave your lock non-functional or insecure. Leave this one to the professionals. We recommend checking out check out this service for additional chimney cleaning needs.

Whether you need rekeying, lock replacement, or a complete security upgrade, Top Locksmith CA delivers expert service at competitive prices. Call (818) 987-2214 today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?

Rekeying is significantly cheaper, costing $15 to $40 per lock versus $75 to $350 per lock for replacement. For a home with 4 to 6 locks, rekeying saves $200 to $900 compared to full replacement. Rekeying is the better choice when your existing hardware is in good condition and you simply need to change who has key access.

How long does rekeying take?

Professional rekeying takes about 10 to 15 minutes per lock. A complete home with 4 to 6 locks can be rekeyed in approximately 1 hour. The locksmith performs the work on-site — there is no need to remove locks or doors. Top Locksmith CA mobile technicians carry all necessary pinning kits to complete the job in a single visit.

Should I rekey when I buy a new house?

Yes, rekeying when you buy a new house is strongly recommended. Previous owners, their family and friends, real estate agents, contractors, and cleaning services may all have copies of the existing keys. Rekeying costs $120 to $250 for a typical home and provides immediate peace of mind. Top Locksmith CA offers move-in rekeying specials — call (818) 987-2214.

Can a locksmith rekey all my locks to one key?

Yes, this is called keying alike and is one of the most popular rekeying requests. A professional locksmith can rekey all your locks — deadbolts, knob locks, and even padlocks of the same brand — to operate with a single key. This eliminates the need for multiple keys and is typically included at no additional charge during a rekeying service.

When should I upgrade my locks instead of rekeying?

You should upgrade your locks when the current hardware is damaged or worn, when you want to add smart lock features like keyless entry and remote access, when existing locks are basic Grade 3 and you want better security with Grade 1 or Grade 2 hardware, after a break-in or attempted break-in, or when renovating and updating your home aesthetic. A professional locksmith can inspect your current locks and advise whether rekeying or replacement is the better investment.