Lock Rekeying Service
Lock rekeying is the process of changing the internal pin configuration of a lock so that the old key no longer works and a new key is required. The lock body, handle, and all exterior hardware stay exactly the same -- only the tiny pins and springs inside the cylinder are changed. From the outside, nobody can tell the lock has been rekeyed.
Think of it this way: a lock is like a puzzle, and your key is the answer to that puzzle. Rekeying changes the puzzle so the old answer no longer works, but the puzzle box (the lock body) stays the same. A professional locksmith removes the lock cylinder, swaps out the pins to match a new key pattern, and reinstalls the cylinder. The whole process takes about 10 to 20 minutes per lock.
Here is what a locksmith does during a standard rekeying:
Rekeying is faster and less expensive than a full lock replacement. It makes sense when the lock hardware is in good condition and you only need to change who has access. Lock replacement makes more sense when the hardware is old, damaged, or you want to upgrade to higher-security locks.
Rekeying typically costs between $50 and $150 per lock in NYC. The price depends on the lock brand (high-security locks like Medeco cost more to rekey), whether it is during business hours or an emergency call, and how many locks you are having rekeyed at once. Most locksmiths offer a per-lock discount when rekeying multiple locks.
Compare that to full lock replacement, which typically runs $100 to $300+ per lock including hardware. If your locks are in good shape, rekeying saves meaningful money while accomplishing exactly the same goal: the old keys stop working.
Rekeying is also a critical component of master key systems in NYC buildings. When a tenant moves out, the building locksmith rekeys that unit's cylinder so the old tenant's key no longer works, while the master key continues to function. For college students moving into off-campus apartments, rekeying on move-in day is one of the most important security steps you can take.
Want to rekey your locks? Our licensed locksmiths handle single-lock and whole-property rekeying across NYC.
No. Rekeying replaces the internal pins and springs with new ones. The lock mechanism functions exactly as it did before, with the same security rating and durability. The only difference is which key operates it.
Some lock brands (like Kwikset SmartKey) offer homeowner-rekeyable systems that require no locksmith. For most standard locks, however, rekeying requires specialized pin kits, a plug follower tool, and knowledge of pin sizing. It is generally more practical and reliable to have a professional handle it.
Most locksmiths provide two to three keys with a standard rekeying service. Additional copies can be cut at the same time for a small per-key charge. For restricted-keyway high-security locks, additional keys must be ordered through the manufacturer.
A standard lock rekeying takes about 10 to 20 minutes per lock. If you are having multiple locks rekeyed at the same time, the locksmith can typically finish an entire apartment (3-4 locks) in under an hour. High-security locks like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock may take slightly longer due to more complex pin configurations.
Lock rekeying in NYC typically costs between $50 and $150 per lock. The price depends on the lock type, whether it is during regular hours or an emergency, and volume discounts for multiple locks. Rekeying is significantly less expensive than full lock replacement, which runs $100 to $300+ per lock including hardware.
Most pin tumbler locks can be rekeyed, including the vast majority of deadbolts, knob locks, and cylinder locks found in NYC apartments and homes. Some electronic or smart locks cannot be rekeyed in the traditional sense but can have access codes changed. Padlocks and some specialty locks may need replacement rather than rekeying.