Rekey or Replace? How to Decide After Moving or Losing Keys

People usually ask this after they move house, lose keys or have a staff member leave. Both choices solve the same problem: they stop old keys from working. They go about it in different ways.

What rekeying does

Rekeying keeps the existing lock body and changes the inside of the cylinder. Once it is done, a new key opens the lock and every old key stops working. The door hardware stays the same, so nothing changes in how it looks or fits.

What replacing does

Replacement takes the whole lock off the door and fits a new one. You get new keys, and the mechanism is new too.

When rekeying usually makes sense

• The lock works smoothly and is in good condition.
• You are happy with the hardware and just want to know exactly who holds keys.
• You want several doors to work from one key, and the hardware allows it.

When replacement usually makes sense

• The lock is damaged, forced or badly worn.
• Keys are hard to turn even when the door is lined up properly.
• The hardware no longer suits how the door is used.
• Your lock type cannot be rekeyed.

Questions worth answering first

1. How many keys exist, and who could have one?
2. Does the lock work smoothly right now?
3. Which doors are affected, including the side, garage and back doors?
4. If you rent or live in a managed building, are there rules about hardware?

What to do next

Call 03 4150 3418 and tell us about the door and the lock. A photo emailed to info@ZenLocksmith.com helps. We will tell you which option suits your hardware. You can read more on our rekeying and lock replacement pages.