Rekey vs Lock Replacement — How to Choose

Updated: 2026

Moved into a new place, changed tenants or staff, or had keys go missing? This guide explains when it makes sense to rekey your locks, when you should replace them, and how most homeowners and small businesses decide.

What does it mean to rekey a lock?

Rekeying keeps the existing lock hardware on the door, but changes the internal pins so that old keys no longer work and new keys do. It’s like changing the combination without changing the lock body.

• ✅ Good hardware stays in place
• ✅ Old keys no longer work
• ✅ New keys are cut to the updated pin layout
• ✅ Often the most cost-effective option

What does it mean to replace a lock?

Replacement means removing the existing hardware and installing new locks entirely. This is usually done when locks are damaged, unreliable, or you want a different style or security level.

• ✅ New hardware, new keys
• ✅ Opportunity to upgrade style, finish, or security rating
• ✅ Can address wear, damage, or persistent issues with older locks

When rekeying is usually the better choice

In many day-to-day situations, rekeying is the first recommendation:

• • You’ve moved into a new home and don’t know who might still have keys
• • A roommate, tenant, or employee with a key is no longer on the lease or staff
• • Keys were lost but the locks themselves work smoothly
• • You want multiple locks to work from a single key (where hardware allows)

In these cases, rekeying can give you a clean slate on access without paying for all new locks.

When replacement is usually the better choice

Replacement makes sense when:

• • The lock is worn, loose, or difficult to operate
• • The door or frame was damaged in a break-in or attempted break-in
• • You want a different style, finish, or upgraded security hardware
• • The existing lock is low-quality and not worth investing in

In these situations, putting money into rekeying old or poor hardware often doesn’t give the long-term reliability or security you actually want.

Cost expectations: rekey vs replacement

Exact pricing depends on how many locks you have, the hardware type, and timing, but most people find:

• • Rekeying is generally more budget-friendly per lock.
• • Replacement costs more up front but can solve hardware issues and provide upgrades.

We can walk through both options once we know what kind of locks you have and how many doors are involved.

Home vs business: does the advice change?

The basic logic stays the same, but businesses often rekey more frequently due to staffing changes, lost keys, or changing access levels.

• • Homes: rekey after moving, lost keys, or major life changes.
• • Businesses: rekey after staffing changes, lost keys, or security policy updates.
• • In both cases: replace when hardware is worn, damaged, or clearly outdated.

What to send for the fastest recommendation

To quickly confirm whether rekeying or replacement is better for you, send:

• • Your ZIP code
• • Whether it’s a home or business
• • Rough count of doors or locks
• • Clear photos of the locks from inside and outside

With that, we can usually give a clear recommendation and quote before you decide.