Why You Should Rekey Your Locks When Moving In

What rekeying actually does

A locksmith takes the cylinder apart and replaces the small pins inside so the lock matches a new key. The lock body, handle and finish stay the same. Old keys stop turning. It takes a few minutes per lock and costs much less than buying new hardware.

You don't know who else has a key

Keys get copied for dog walkers, house sitters, roommates and repair crews, and few people return every copy. You have no way to count them. Rekeying is the only way to be sure the keys in your hand are the only ones that work.

It's an affordable upgrade

In Mountain View, rekeying starts at $19.00 per the price list, plus the $29.00 service call fee. While the locksmith is there, ask to have every door keyed alike so one key opens the front, back and garage entry.

Renters: ask first

If you rent, ask your landlord to rekey before you move in, or ask for written permission to arrange it yourself. Your landlord will need a copy of the new key. California does not require landlords to rekey between tenants, so asking is worth it.

Rekey or replace?

Rekey when the locks are in good working order. Replace when they are damaged, rusted, hard to turn, or when you want a smart lock or a higher-security cylinder.