When Should You Rekey Your Locks?
What Does It Mean to Rekey a Lock?
Rekeying a lock means changing the internal pins inside the lock cylinder so that the old key no longer works and a new key is required. The lock hardware itself stays in place — only the internal mechanism is modified. This is different from replacing a lock entirely, which involves removing the hardware and installing new equipment.
When Should You Rekey Your Locks?
- After moving into a new home — You have no way of knowing how many copies of the previous owner's key exist. Rekeying immediately after closing is one of the smartest security decisions you can make.
- After a breakup or roommate change — Anyone who previously had a key should no longer have access.
- After losing a key — If your key is lost rather than just misplaced, rekeying is the safest response.
- After a break-in attempt — Even if the attempt failed, your existing locks may be compromised.
- After letting a contractor or service worker in — If they had unsupervised access, rekeying is a reasonable precaution.
Rekeying vs. Replacing — Which Is Right for You?
Rekeying is significantly less expensive than full lock replacement and is the right choice in most situations where the existing hardware is in good condition. Lock replacement makes more sense when the hardware is damaged, outdated, or you want to upgrade to a higher security grade.
How Much Does Rekeying Cost in the RGV?
Rekeying typically costs less than replacing locks. A professional locksmith can usually rekey a standard residential lock in under 30 minutes. For an accurate quote in the McAllen, Edinburg, Brownsville, or Laredo area, contact Premier Locksmith.
Can I Rekey My Own Locks?
DIY rekey kits are available at hardware stores, but they require the right tools, the correct replacement pins, and familiarity with lock mechanisms. Mistakes during the process can leave you with a lock that doesn't work properly. For most homeowners, calling a licensed locksmith is faster, more reliable, and often not much more expensive than attempting it yourself.
Premier Locksmith offers rekeying services throughout the Rio Grande Valley and Laredo. Call us anytime — we're available around the clock.