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Residential Locksmith

Lock changes, rekeying, repairs and stronger locks for apartments, houses, brownstones and co-ops.

How estimates work

Not sure which service you need?

Rekey, repair or replace: start with the reason

Moving in, losing a key and dealing with a sticking lock are different problems. If you want old keys to stop working and the lock is in good condition, ask about rekeying. If a key sticks or the latch does not catch, the door and lock need assessment. If the hardware is damaged or you want different features, replacement may be the better route.

Preserving a handle or decorative plate can matter on an older entrance. Show both sides of the door and the edge before choosing new hardware. A change of key does not automatically require replacing everything you can see.

Apartments and houses need different access plans

In an apartment, distinguish your private door from the shared lobby and any building-controlled key system. Ask management about hardware requirements and authorization before changing shared equipment. A working lobby fob does not establish that the apartment lock is working.

For a house, include side, garden and garage-service doors when planning a move-in key change. Decide which doors should share a key and which need separate access. That avoids finishing the front door while leaving an overlooked entrance on an old key.

A lock upgrade should fit the door you have

Before buying a smart lock or high-security cylinder, identify the existing mechanism, clearance and door condition. Features are useful only when the hardware fits the opening and works reliably with the way your household enters and leaves.

Our smart lock service covers installation requests, while high-security locks explains key-control options. Start with the door and the problem you want to solve, then compare the appropriate choices.

Questions before you book

Can I keep my current handle when changing keys?

Often the key-related work can be assessed separately from the handle. The options depend on the mechanism, condition and compatible parts. Photos of the door edge are useful alongside front and back views.

What should I arrange before changing an apartment lock?

Confirm your authority to request the work, any building specification and who needs an authorized copy of the new key. Shared entrances should be handled with the building’s responsible contact.

Can several doors use the same key?

Compatible cylinders may be keyed alike. List each door and any access that should remain separate so the key plan matches the household’s needs.

Planning your estimate

All prices are estimates

Your final price depends on the time and type of work involved. It is confirmed with you before any work begins.

See what affects your estimate