Is Rekeying Safer Than Changing Locks? What Phoenix Homeowners Should Know
You just moved into a new home in Phoenix—or maybe you lost your keys, had a breakup, or are switching tenants. Now you’re wondering:
Should I rekey the locks… or replace them entirely?
It’s one of the most common questions we hear at Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, and for good reason. Home security is a top priority, especially in growing neighborhoods like North Gateway, Arcadia Lite, and Grand Avenue.
The short answer? Rekeying is just as safe—and in many cases, safer—than replacing your locks.
Let’s break it down.
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What’s the Difference Between Rekeying and Changing Locks?
🔐 Rekeying
Rekeying means changing the internal pins inside your existing lock. You keep the same hardware, but we adjust it so that only a new key will work—and any old keys become useless.
🔒 Changing Locks
Lock replacement means removing your current lock completely and installing brand-new hardware, typically with a new key included.
Both options increase your home’s security—but they serve different purposes.
Which Option Is Safer?
If your current locks are in good condition and not compromised, rekeying is just as safe as replacing them—and sometimes even safer because it:
- Prevents tampering with old key copies
- Allows us to inspect the lock’s performance
- Keeps hardware you’re already familiar with
- Enables same-day service with no major tools or drilling
We’ve helped homeowners in neighborhoods like Sunnyslope and Central City rekey locks that were already secure—but needed a key reset for peace of mind.
When Rekeying Is the Safer Choice
Choose rekeying if:
✅ You just moved into a new home
✅ You lost a key or had one stolen
✅ You had a roommate, ex, or tenant move out
✅ Your keys may have been copied
✅ You’re not sure who has access
✅ Your locks still work well and match your doors
Rekeying provides the same level of security as a brand-new lock—without changing the hardware or increasing the chance of installation error.
When Replacing Locks Is a Better Option
Sometimes, changing the entire lock is the safer route. For example:
⚠️ Your lock is damaged, rusty, or broken
⚠️ You want a higher-security deadbolt
⚠️ You’re upgrading to a smart lock
⚠️ The hardware no longer matches your door or security goals
⚠️ You’ve experienced an attempted or successful break-in
In cases like these—especially in older homes in Encanto or Garfield—replacing the lock gives you a fresh start with newer, more secure technology.
Cost Comparison: Rekeying vs. Changing Locks
| Feature | Rekeying | Lock Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost Per Lock | $15–$25 | $50–$200+ |
| Requires New Hardware | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Same-Day Completion | ✅ Yes | ✅ Sometimes |
| Keeps Existing Look | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (changes style/finish) |
| Security Rating | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (with quality install) |
Unless you have a specific reason to upgrade, rekeying is the more affordable and equally effective option.
Is Rekeying Enough to Prevent Break-Ins?
Yes—as long as the lock is in good condition and properly installed, rekeying is enough to:
- Disable all old key access
- Block unauthorized entry
- Restore total key control
- Eliminate the risk of former tenants, guests, or contractors using old keys
We often rekey homes in neighborhoods like Desert Ridge, Paradise Valley Village, and Ahwatukee Foothills after new homeowners move in. In nearly every case, they’re surprised how simple and secure the process is.
How Rekeying Improves Key Control
When you rekey your home, you control:
- Who has keys
- How many copies exist
- Who can duplicate them
You can even ask us to rekey all compatible locks to work with one key—making it easier for you to manage access and harder for others to find a spare.
When You Should Rekey AND Replace
In some cases, it makes sense to do both:
✅ Replace outdated locks
✅ Rekey new ones to match a single key
✅ Add smart locks and rekey backup keys
✅ Combine rekeying with new deadbolts or high-security options
This is a popular choice for landlords in Biltmore and property investors in Midtown who are upgrading properties between tenants.
Phoenix Smart Lock Considerations
Many homeowners in Central Phoenix now use smart locks—but even these high-tech solutions still include a key cylinder.
If you’ve given out app access or physical keys in the past:
- Rekey the lock cylinder
- Reset the smart codes and digital users
- Reclaim full access control across the board
We handle both smart locks and standard deadbolts—so whether you’re running an Airbnb in Roosevelt Row or a family home in South Phoenix, we’ll keep you secure.
What to Expect During Rekeying
Here’s how our service works:
- Mobile arrival anywhere in Phoenix
- Walkthrough of doors and locks to be rekeyed
- Internal pin changes to all designated locks
- New keys provided on-site
- Optional: match all doors to one key
- Test + adjust all locks before we leave
Most rekeying appointments take less than an hour and cost a fraction of lock replacement.
✅ Click here to learn more about Phoenix rekeying services
Final Thoughts: Rekey First, Replace If Needed
If your locks are in good shape and your goal is security, speed, and savings, rekeying is the safer and smarter option 9 times out of 10.
When done by a licensed Phoenix locksmith, rekeying gives you:
- Full control
- Better key management
- Peace of mind
- Lower costs
- Same level of protection as replacement
Your Keys. Your Security. Your Control.
Don’t gamble with someone else’s spare key. Rekeying protects your Phoenix home without the cost of full lock replacement. Whether you’re moving in, upgrading, or just want peace of mind—our locksmiths are ready to help.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
📞 (602) 854-2766
🌐 affordablesecurityphoenix.com