A house rekey is one of the most common calls after buying a home, losing a key, changing tenants, or realizing too many people may have copies. The question most homeowners ask first is simple: how much will it cost?
The honest answer depends on the locks, the number of doors, whether you want one key for everything, and whether any hardware problems show up during the visit. A good estimate starts with the details of the home, not a generic number pulled out of context.
The number of locks matters most
Most rekey jobs are priced around the visit and the number of cylinders being rekeyed. A front door with a knob and deadbolt may count as two cylinders. Add a back door, garage-entry door, side door, basement door, or detached garage and the count changes quickly.
Before calling, walk the property and count every keyed exterior lock you want included. This helps the locksmith quote the job more accurately and bring enough matching key blanks.
Keying alike can affect the job
Many homeowners want one key to open all compatible exterior doors. This is convenient, but it depends on whether the locks use compatible keyways and whether the cylinders are in serviceable condition. If some locks are a different brand or style, they may need different handling or hardware replacement.
Hardware condition can change the recommendation
A rekey does not fix every lock problem. If a deadbolt is loose, corroded, difficult to turn, damaged, or misaligned with the strike plate, the locksmith may recommend repair or replacement for that specific door. That can change the total cost, but it is better than rekeying hardware that still will not work smoothly.
Timing and access also matter
Standard scheduled rekeying is different from an urgent after-hours call. If you need immediate service at night, on a weekend, or during a lockout, pricing may reflect that urgency. Access to the home and proof that you are authorized to rekey it are also part of the visit.
Common Questions
Is rekeying cheaper than replacing locks?
Usually, yes, when the existing locks are in good condition. Rekeying changes key access without buying all new hardware.
Can one key open all my house locks?
Often, yes, if the locks are compatible. A locksmith can confirm on site and key matching cylinders alike.
What should I count before asking for a rekey estimate?
Count every keyed exterior cylinder, including knobs, deadbolts, garage-entry doors, basement doors, side doors, and detached structures.