When it comes to protecting your home, business, or vehicle, locks play a critical role in overall security. One of the most common questions property owners face is whether they should rekey their existing locks or replace them entirely. While replacing a lock may sound like the safest option, it is often unnecessary. In many situations, lock rekeying delivers the same level of security while saving time, money, and effort.
The Complete Guide to Lock Rekeying and Secure Access
Lock rekeying is a practical, efficient, and widely used solution for controlling access. From homeowners moving into a new property to businesses managing staff changes, rekeying offers a reliable way to secure spaces without replacing hardware that still works perfectly.
In this guide, we will explore why lock rekeying is often a better choice than lock replacement, how the process works, real-world scenarios where it makes sense, and how professional locksmiths like FleetLocksmiths.com.au ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Understanding Lock Rekeying
Lock rekeying is the process of changing the internal configuration of a lock so that it works with a new key. The external lock hardware remains the same, but the internal pins inside the lock cylinder are altered. Once rekeyed, all old keys become completely useless.
This process is commonly used when access needs to change but the lock itself is still in good condition. Rekeying focuses on access control rather than hardware replacement.
How Lock Rekeying Works
A professional locksmith follows a precise process to ensure accuracy and security:
First, the lock cylinder is carefully removed from the door without causing damage. The locksmith then disassembles the cylinder and replaces or rearranges the internal pins. These pins are matched to a brand-new key. Once completed, the lock is reassembled and tested to ensure smooth operation.
After rekeying, only the newly issued keys will work. Any previous keys are permanently disabled.
This process allows property owners to regain full control over who can access their space.
Lock Rekeying vs Lock Replacement: Key Differences
Although both rekeying and replacement aim to improve security, they serve different purposes.
Lock rekeying changes the key that operates the lock while keeping the existing hardware. Lock replacement removes the entire lock and installs a new one. Replacement often involves changing handles, strike plates, and sometimes door fittings.
For most situations involving lost keys, tenant changes, or employee turnover, rekeying achieves the same security outcome without unnecessary upgrades. Replacement is usually reserved for damaged, outdated, or compromised locks.
Understanding this difference helps property owners make smarter, more cost-effective decisions.
Why Lock Replacement Is Often Unnecessary
Many people assume that replacing a lock is the only way to secure a property. In reality, this approach is often excessive. If a lock is functioning correctly and shows no signs of damage, replacing it offers little additional benefit compared to rekeying.
Lock replacement can also create avoidable complications. New locks may not match existing door hardware, requiring additional adjustments. Installation takes longer and costs significantly more, especially when multiple doors are involved.
Rekeying provides immediate security by eliminating unauthorized keys while preserving existing hardware. This makes it an ideal solution for most residential and commercial properties.
Cost Comparison: Rekeying vs Replacement
|
Feature |
Rekeying |
Replacement |
|
Average Cost (Residential) |
$50–$150 per lock |
$150–$300 per lock |
|
Time Required |
30–60 minutes per lock |
1–2 hours per lock |
|
Hardware Change |
No |
Yes |
|
Security After Process |
Old keys invalid, secure |
Completely new hardware |
Cost is one of the strongest reasons people choose lock rekeying over replacement.
Rekeying is generally far more affordable because it does not involve purchasing new locks. Instead, it focuses on modifying what is already in place.
On average, residential rekeying costs significantly less per lock compared to replacement. Businesses and property managers benefit even more when multiple locks are rekeyed at once. Many locksmiths can also key multiple locks alike, meaning one key opens several doors.
Why Rekeying Saves Money
Replacement involves higher material costs, longer labor time, and sometimes additional door modifications. Over time, these expenses add up quickly.
For anyone seeking an economical security solution, rekeying is usually the smarter investment.
Time Efficiency and Convenience
Rekeying is also much faster than replacing locks. A skilled locksmith can rekey a standard lock in a short amount of time, often within minutes. This is especially useful during urgent situations such as lost keys or employee terminations.
Lock replacement takes longer due to removal, installation, alignment, and testing of new hardware. When multiple locks are involved, this can disrupt daily routines in homes or business operations.
Rekeying minimizes downtime and restores security quickly.
Security Benefits of Rekeying
Rekeying offers strong security benefits because it addresses one of the most common risks: unauthorized keys.
Break-ins often occur not because locks are weak, but because someone already has a key. Former tenants, past employees, contractors, or misplaced keys all create vulnerabilities that are difficult to track.
Rekeying immediately removes these risks. Once completed, only authorized individuals with the new keys can gain access. This restores control and significantly reduces security concerns.
For many property owners, this level of protection is more than sufficient.
Environmental and Practical Advantages
Another often overlooked benefit of rekeying is sustainability. Rekeying reuses existing hardware, which reduces waste and environmental impact. Old locks are not discarded, and fewer materials are consumed.
From a practical standpoint, rekeying avoids changes to door appearance and hardware compatibility. Handles, finishes, and fittings remain consistent throughout the property.
This is especially useful for properties with uniform design or custom hardware.
When Lock Rekeying Makes the Most Sense
Rekeying is suitable for a wide range of real-life situations.
Moving Into a New Property
When moving into a new home or apartment, there is no way to know how many copies of the old keys exist. Rekeying ensures that only current occupants have access from day one.
Lost or Stolen Keys
If keys are lost or stolen, rekeying immediately neutralizes the risk. There is no need to wait for a break-in to take action.
Tenant or Employee Changes
Property managers and business owners frequently use rekeying when tenants move out or employees leave. It is faster and more affordable than replacing locks across an entire property.
Upgrading Access Control
Rekeying allows owners to simplify access by using one key for multiple locks. This improves convenience while maintaining security.
Real-World Example: Commercial Rekeying
A Melbourne-based business experienced multiple staff departures within a short period. Concerned about security, the owner contacted Fleet Locksmiths. Instead of replacing all office locks, the locksmith rekeyed every door in under two hours.
The result was full access control restored, minimal disruption to business operations, and savings of over two thousand dollars compared to full lock replacement. This is a common scenario where rekeying delivers immediate value.
When Lock Replacement Is the Better Option
Although rekeying is highly effective, there are situations where replacement is necessary.
Locks that are old, worn out, or damaged may not function reliably even after rekeying. In such cases, replacement ensures long-term security and performance.
High-security upgrades may also require new hardware. Advanced locking systems with electronic components or smart access controls often cannot be rekeyed.
If a lock has been physically tampered with or compromised, replacement is the safest solution.
A professional locksmith can assess the condition of a lock and recommend the most appropriate option.
Rekeying for Different Property Types
Residential Rekeying
Homeowners commonly use rekeying to secure houses, apartments, and rental properties. It provides peace of mind without altering doors or aesthetics.
Commercial Rekeying
Businesses benefit from rekeying due to frequent access changes. Offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and medical facilities rely on rekeying to maintain security efficiently.
Automotive Rekeying
In some cases, vehicle locks can also be rekeyed to match a new key. Professional locksmiths ensure compatibility with modern immobiliser systems and vehicle security requirements.
FleetLocksmiths.com.au provides rekeying services across residential, commercial, and automotive applications.
Why Professional Rekeying Matters
|
Aspect |
DIY Kits |
Professional Locksmith |
|
Security |
Limited |
Full assurance |
|
Tools & Expertise |
Basic |
Specialized tools & training |
|
Speed |
Slower |
Fast & efficient |
|
Emergency Availability |
No |
24/7 service |
|
Key Quality |
Standard |
Precision cut & programmed |
While DIY rekeying kits are available, they come with limitations. Improper pin alignment or poor-quality keys can lead to lock failure or security issues.
Professional locksmiths bring specialized tools, experience, and training to ensure accuracy. They test locks thoroughly and ensure smooth operation before completing the job.
Professionals also offer mobile services, emergency availability, and expert advice. This level of reliability is difficult to match with DIY solutions.
Fleet Locksmiths: Trusted Rekeying Experts
Fleet Locksmiths has been serving Melbourne, Geelong, and surrounding areas since 2012. Based in Bell Post Hill, we provide mobile locksmith services for homes, businesses, and vehicles.
Our technicians are licensed, insured, and police-checked, ensuring trustworthy service. With 24/7 availability, we respond quickly to urgent rekeying needs.
Our experience across multiple lock types allows us to deliver fast, secure, and professional results every time.
Rekeying as a Long-Term Security Strategy
One of the biggest advantages of rekeying is flexibility. Locks can be rekeyed again in the future as security needs change. This makes rekeying a long-term solution rather than a one-time fix.
For landlords, business owners, and homeowners alike, rekeying provides ongoing control without repeated hardware costs.
Protect Your Property with Expert Lock Rekeying
Choosing between lock rekeying and lock replacement depends on the condition of the lock and the level of security required. In most everyday situations, rekeying is faster, more affordable, and just as secure as replacement.
From moving into a new property to managing staff changes, rekeying delivers immediate protection without unnecessary upgrades. When performed by experienced professionals like FleetLocksmiths.com.au, the process is safe, reliable, and efficient.
If your locks are still in good condition but access needs to change, rekeying is often the smartest choice. Take action today, contact us and experience professional lock rekeying for peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does lock rekeying take?
Ans: Professional locksmiths usually complete rekeying in 30–60 minutes per lock.
Q2. Is rekeying cheaper than replacement?
Ans: Yes, rekeying can save 50–70% compared to replacing locks.
Q3. Can all locks be rekeyed?
Ans: Most standard locks can be rekeyed, but old, damaged, or high-security locks may require replacement.
Q4. Will rekeying improve security?
Ans: Absolutely — old keys are invalid, giving instant protection without replacing hardware.
Q5. Can I rekey my locks myself?
Ans: DIY kits exist, but professional locksmiths like Fleet Locksmiths provide safer, faster, and more reliable service, especially for emergencies
