Rekeying is a practical first question after moving into a home because copies of the old keys may still exist with prior owners, contractors, cleaners, or tenants. It can also help when a key is lost and the lock hardware is otherwise in good shape.
Rekeying or replacing?
| Choose rekeying when… | Consider replacement when… |
|---|---|
| The lock is the right size and style | The lock is damaged, loose, or unreliable |
| You want old keys to stop working | You want a different function or smart features |
| Existing hardware matches the door | The lock does not fit the door or frame well |
| You want compatible locks to use one key | The hardware is severely worn or obsolete |
Before a visit, count the doors and identify which ones share a key. Tell us about patio doors, garage entry, side gates, and any locks you want keyed alike. That inventory helps avoid rekeying one entry while leaving an overlooked access point unchanged.