Changing Locks vs Rekeying: What It Costs and When You Need It

Changing Locks vs Rekeying: What It Costs and When You Need It

If you want to stop old keys from opening your door, you usually don't need new locks. You need your locks rekeyed. A locksmith resets the inside of your existing lock so it works with a new key, and every old key stops working. Rekeying costs $25 to $50 per lock, a fraction of the price of replacing the lock. If a locksmith comes to you, a service call fee applies on top.

With Lockmart having 4 locations across Melbourne, you can bring your locks to us to change, for a fraction of the cost.

Most people search for "changing locks". Locksmiths call it rekeying. This guide covers both, so you can work out which one you need and what it should cost.

Who changes locks?

A locksmith. Locksmiths rekey, repair and replace residential and commercial locks, and many (including Lockmart) will come to you. You can also bring locks into one of our four stores in Seaford, Mornington, Rosebud and Braeside.

Hardware stores sell new locks, but fitting them properly, keeping your keys matched across doors, and working on master key or restricted key systems is locksmith work.

Changing a lock vs rekeying a lock

If your locks work smoothly and you are happy with them, rekeying is almost always the better value.

How much does it cost to change a lock?

Rekeying: $25 to $50 per lock. The price depends mainly on the type of lock. If a locksmith comes to you, a service call fee applies on top of the per-lock price.

Replacing a lock: it varies. The main factors are:

• The lock itself. A basic entrance set costs far less than a high security deadlock or a digital lock.
• The door. If the new lock fits the existing holes, fitting is quick. If the door needs new cut-outs or repairs, it takes longer.
• How many locks. Doing every external door in one visit costs less per lock than separate visits.
• Where and when. An onsite visit costs more than walking into a store, and after-hours work costs more again.

Example: a typical house with a front door, back door and garage door has three locks. Rekeying all three costs roughly $150, plus a service call if done on site, and you can have all three set to one key.

Should I change the locks when I move into a new house?

Yes. You have no idea how many copies of the old key are out there. Previous owners, their family, tradespeople, cleaners, neighbours and real estate agents may all have one.

Rekeying on the day you get the keys is the cheapest security upgrade you will ever make. While you are at it:

• Reset any digital lock codes and delete old fingerprints or app users
• Reprogram garage door remotes
• Change the alarm code
• Check window locks work and have keys

If you are renting, read the next section first.

Am I allowed to change the locks?

It depends on whether you own, rent or manage the property. This is general information for Victoria, not legal advice.

You own the home. Yes. Rekey or replace whenever you like.

You are renting. You need your rental provider's (landlord's) consent before changing a lock. If they agree, you organise and pay for it, and you give them a key for the new lock.

You are renting and experiencing family violence. If you are protected by a family violence safety notice or intervention order that excludes another renter, you can change the locks without your rental provider's permission. You give keys to the rental provider and other renters, but not to the excluded person. See Consumer Affairs Victoria or call them on 1300 55 81 81. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.

You are a landlord. Rekeying between tenants is good practice. Make sure your renters receive keys for any lock you change.

Your building has a master key system. Apartments, offices and strata buildings often use one master key for many locks. Speak to your building or strata manager first. Your locksmith must rekey within the system so the master key still works. Lockmart maintains restricted key systems for this reason.

You lease a business premises. Check your lease. Most commercial leases need the landlord's approval for lock changes.

When rekeying isn't enough

Replace the lock instead of rekeying when:

• The lock is worn, sticky or hard to turn
• It was damaged in a break-in or forced entry (what to do after a break-in)
• You want better security, such as a restricted key or a digital lock
• The lock is an old or cheap model that can't be rekeyed

Not sure? Send us a photo through the contact form and we will tell you which option makes sense.

Book a rekey or lock change

Call 1300 730 539 any time, day or night, or visit any Lockmart store. We have been securing Melbourne homes and businesses since 1967. Learn more about our rekeying service and residential locksmiths.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to rekey a lock? Rekeying usually costs $25 to $50 per lock, depending on the type of lock. If a locksmith comes to you, a service call fee applies on top. That is still a fraction of the cost of replacing it.

Is rekeying as secure as changing the lock? Yes, for the problem of old keys. Once a lock is rekeyed, old keys cannot open it. If you want stronger protection against picking or forced entry, upgrade the lock instead.

Can I rekey a lock myself? Not easily. Rekeying needs the right pins, tools and key cutting equipment. A locksmith can usually do it quickly and cheaply.

Can all my doors use the same key? Often, yes. If your locks are compatible, a locksmith can rekey them so one key opens every door. This is called keyed alike. Read keyed alike vs master key systems.

Should I change the locks after a breakup or a housemate moves out? Yes, if they had a key and you are not sure it was returned. Rekeying is the quickest way to make sure only the people you choose can get in. Renters should check the rental rules above first.

Do I need to change the locks when I buy a house? You should. You cannot know who still holds copies of the old keys. Rekeying every external door when you move in is cheap and fast.