Lock rekeying new keys without new locks

How rekeying works

A pin-tumbler lock opens when the key lifts each stack of pins to exactly the right height. Rekeying means removing the cylinder, replacing the pins to match a new key, and putting it back. Each lock takes a few minutes once the technician is at the door, and the lock looks and works exactly as before — only the key has changed.

Rekeying is also how several locks are set to one key. If your front door, back door and garage entry door share a keyway, they can all be pinned to the same new key.

When to rekey

• You have just moved into a house, townhome or condo
• A key was lost or stolen, especially with anything showing your address
• A roommate, tenant, contractor or former partner still has a key
• You want one key for several doors instead of a ring full of them
• A rental unit is turning over between tenants

When rekeying is not enough

Rekeying fixes who has a key; it does not fix a worn, damaged or low-quality lock. If a lock is already sticking, has been forced, or the deadbolt is a light-duty model, replacement may be the better use of the visit. Electronic and smart locks with a key override can usually have the override cylinder rekeyed — and their codes or app access should be reset at the same time.