Rekeying FAQs: Phoenix Locksmith Answers the Most Common Questions
Rekeying is one of the most affordable, effective ways to regain control over your home’s security—but if you’ve never done it before, it can raise a lot of questions.
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix, we rekey locks every day for homeowners, renters, landlords, and businesses across the Valley. Whether you’re in Ahwatukee, Desert Ridge, or downtown Phoenix, we’ve probably rekeyed a door near you.
So let’s break down the most frequently asked questions about rekeying, all answered by a local locksmith who knows Phoenix inside and out.
🔐 What Is Rekeying?
Rekeying means changing the internal pins of a lock cylinder so it works with a new key and disables all old keys.
The lock hardware stays the same—only the key is different.
It’s perfect for:
- New homeowners
- Rental turnovers
- Lost or stolen keys
- Breakups or roommate changes
- General peace of mind
👉 Click here for a full overview of our rekeying services
🔑 When Should I Rekey My Locks?
You should rekey:
- Right after moving into a new home
- If you’ve lost your keys
- After an eviction or tenant move-out
- If someone you no longer trust had a key
- After a break-in or security scare
- When you want one key for every door
🤔 What’s the Difference Between Rekeying and Replacing a Lock?
| Feature | Rekeying | Replacing Lock |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ✅ Lower cost | ❌ Higher cost |
| Hardware | ✅ Keep same hardware | ❌ New hardware required |
| Time | ✅ 30–60 minutes | ❌ 1–2+ hours |
| Security Result | ✅ Full key reset | ✅ Full key reset |
| Common Use Case | 🔑 New owner or lost key | 🔧 Damaged or old hardware |
We recommend rekeying unless the lock is broken or outdated.
🏠 How Many Locks Can Be Rekeyed to One Key?
In most cases, we can rekey:
- Front door
- Back door
- Garage entry
- Side gates
- Storage sheds
To all use one single key—as long as they’re compatible.
Even if you have different brands (like Kwikset and Schlage), we may be able to adjust or recommend minor hardware swaps to simplify your system.
📍 Do You Serve All Areas in Phoenix?
Yes! We offer mobile rekeying service across the entire Phoenix metro, including:
- Arcadia
- Roosevelt Row
- Sunnyslope
- South Mountain
- Encanto
- Ahwatukee
- North Phoenix
- Garfield
- Laveen
…and surrounding suburbs like Tempe, Glendale, and Chandler.
💡 Can I Rekey a Smart Lock?
Most smart locks still have a physical key, and we can rekey that cylinder.
We also: ✅ Reset digital user codes
✅ Remove past app users
✅ Update Wi-Fi settings
✅ Help you reprogram for fresh access
Common smart locks we service:
- Kwikset Halo, Kevo
- Schlage Encode, Sense
- Yale Assure
- Level, Eufy, August (select models)
🧰 Can I Rekey My Locks Myself?
There are DIY kits—but we don’t recommend them unless you’re very handy and know the lock brand/type.
Common issues with DIY rekeying:
- Dropped pins
- Damaged springs
- Incompatibility with existing locks
- Locks jam or stop functioning
For most people, it’s cheaper and safer to hire a professional who gets it done right the first time.
🧾 What Do You Include with Rekeying Service?
Every rekeying visit includes: ✅ Key audit (we inspect all lockable entry points)
✅ Rekeying of requested locks
✅ New keys cut and tested on-site
✅ Optional matching (one key for all doors)
✅ Smart lock code reset (if applicable)
✅ Light lock maintenance (lubrication, alignment)
⏱️ How Long Does Rekeying Take?
For a standard Phoenix home (2–4 locks), rekeying takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Larger homes, commercial properties, or those with complex smart systems may take longer—but we come prepared.
💲 How Much Does Rekeying Cost?
| Service Type | Avg. Cost |
|---|---|
| Rekeying 2–3 locks | $60–$90 total |
| Smart lock rekey/reset | +$15–$30 |
| Full-home one-key system | Included ✅ |
| Volume or property mgr | Custom quotes |
We’ll give you upfront pricing before starting any work. No surprises.
🧠 What If I Don’t Know Who Has a Key?
Then it’s time to rekey.
We see this often in:
- Rental homes
- Properties passed down through family
- Homes that had Airbnb or short-term rental guests
- Divorces or roommate separations
- Break-ins or suspicious activity
Rekeying gives you 100% control.
🧯 What If There’s an Emergency?
We offer same-day and emergency rekeying across Phoenix, especially if:
- Keys are lost or stolen
- You suspect someone may try to enter
- There’s been an eviction or confrontation
- You just need peace of mind fast
📞 Call (602) 854-2766 and we’ll prioritize your service.
🧑🔧 What Makes Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm Different?
✔️ Local, licensed, and experienced
✔️ Mobile service valley-wide
✔️ Same-day availability
✔️ Friendly, fast, and professional
✔️ Transparent pricing
✔️ Full support for smart lock systems
✔️ One-key setup available
✔️ We handle residential, commercial, and rental properties
Final Word: Rekeying Is Easy—When You Have the Right Help
Most people don’t rekey until something happens. Don’t wait until a key goes missing, a door gets opened, or your peace of mind is compromised.
A quick, affordable rekey today could save you stress tomorrow.
Still Have Questions? We’ve Got the Key to Every Answer.
Book your Phoenix rekeying service today and take back control of your home’s security—confidently, quickly, and professionally.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
📞 (602) 854-2766
🌐 affordablesecurityphoenix.com