Lock Rekeying vs. Lock Replacement: Which Option is Best for You?

When you want to secure your property—whether you have just moved into a new house in Richmond, had a tenant vacate your rental property, or misplaced a set of keys—you need to change who has access. Most people assume this means buying brand new locks. However, in many cases, a service called lock rekeying is a much smarter, faster, and more affordable option.

The Difference: Rekeying vs. Replacing

Let's demystify these two terms:

• Lock Rekeying: The locksmith disassembles the existing lock cylinder, discards the old internal brass pins, and replaces them with pins of different heights. We then cut new keys that match the new pin configuration. The physical housing, door handles, and lock face remain exactly the same, but the old keys will no longer turn the lock.
• Lock Replacement: The locksmith removes the entire locking hardware from the door—including the handles, deadbolt housing, latches, and strike plates—and installs a completely new lockset package.

When Should You Choose Rekeying? (The Smart Choice)

Rekeying is the preferred solution in the vast majority of residential and commercial security updates because it saves you the cost of new hardware. It is ideal for:

• Moving into a new home: You don't know how many copies of the keys the previous owners, real estate agents, or builders made. Rekeying ensures absolute control.
• Lost or stolen keys: If someone finds your lost key, they won't know where you live, but rekeying gives you total peace of mind.
• Keying Alike: If you have different keys for your front door, laundry door, and screen door, a locksmith can often rekey them to all operate from a single, unified key.

When is Lock Replacement Necessary?

While rekeying is highly cost-effective, there are times when replacing the lock is the only logical choice:

• Damaged or worn-out locks: If the lock mechanism is sticking, rusty, or has been physically damaged during a break-in attempt, it must be replaced.
• Upgrading security standards: If your home has old, flimsy locks that don't meet modern insurance standards (like AS 4145.2), replacing them with high-security deadbolts is critical.
• Aesthetic upgrades: If you are remodeling your home and want to swap outdated brass handles for modern matte black lever sets.

Cost Comparison: Save Up to 70%

The price of high-quality deadbolts and security door handles can accumulate quickly, especially if you have multiple external doors. Because rekeying only involves changing small brass pins and cutting new keys, it can save you up to 70% on hardware expenses compared to full replacements. You get the exact same level of security control without paying for metal handles you don't need.

Get Professional Rekeying in Melbourne

Want to change your keys? Richmond Prime Locksmith provides fast, professional lock rekeying services for residential and commercial clients across Melbourne. Our mobile technicians carry all pin sizes and key cutting tools to complete the job in one quick visit. Contact us today for a free estimate.