Rekey vs Lock Change: Which Do You Need? | Orlando Locksmith Guide
Rekeying locks and changing locks are the two most common locksmith solutions for improving home or business security in Orlando,
But they solve different problems at different price points. Rekeying adjusts the internal pins in your existing lock cylinder so that a new key works while old keys no longer do. Changing locks replaces the entire lock hardware with a new unit. Key Copy By Mo provides both rekeying and lock change services across the Orlando metro area — this guide explains exactly when each option makes sense, what each costs, and how to decide.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Lock rekeying is the process of adjusting the internal pin configuration inside a lock cylinder so the lock operates with a new key while rendering all previous keys useless. The existing lock hardware stays installed on the door — only the internal mechanism changes. A locksmith in Orlando can rekey most standard residential locks in 10–20 minutes per lock.
Rekeying works on any pin-tumbler lock, which covers the majority of residential deadbolts, knob locks, and lever-handle locks installed in Orlando homes and apartments. The lock body, strike plate, and exterior trim remain unchanged, which means rekeying preserves both the appearance and the existing security grade of your current hardware. Key Copy By Mo provides same-day rekeying service for residential and commercial properties across the Orlando metro area.
What Is a Lock Change?
A lock change replaces the entire lock assembly — cylinder, housing, strike plate, and exterior trim — with a completely new unit. Every component is removed from the door and replaced with new hardware, which comes with its own fresh set of keys.
Changing locks allows you to upgrade the security grade, switch to a different lock style or brand, or install features your current hardware does not support — such as smart lock connectivity, bump-resistant pins, or high-security restricted keyways. A residential lock change in Orlando typically takes 15–30 minutes per lock, depending on hardware compatibility and door preparation. Key Copy By Mo installs deadbolts, knob locks, lever handles, electronic locks, and high-security lock systems across all Orlando neighborhoods.
Rekeying vs Changing Locks: Side-by-Side Comparison
|
Factor |
Rekeying Locks |
Changing Locks |
|
Typical Cost (Orlando) |
$15–$35 per lock (labor + pins) |
$75–$300+ per lock (hardware + labor) |
|
Time Per Lock |
10–20 minutes |
15–30 minutes |
|
What Changes |
Internal pins only — same lock body, same appearance |
Entire lock assembly — new hardware, new appearance |
|
Security Upgrade |
Same security grade as the existing lock |
Can upgrade to higher security grade, smart locks, or restricted keyways |
|
Best For |
Moved in, lost a key, ended a lease, fired an employee |
Damaged locks, outdated hardware, security upgrade, after a break-in |
|
Old Keys Work? |
No — old keys are permanently disabled |
No — entirely new key set |
|
Existing Hardware |
Stays installed — must be in good working condition |
Removed and replaced entirely |
When Rekeying Is the Right Choice
Rekeying is the faster, more affordable option when your existing lock hardware is in good condition, and you do not need a security upgrade. A locksmith in Orlando will typically recommend rekeying in these situations:
When Changing Locks Is the Better Option
Replacing locks is the right choice when the existing hardware is damaged, outdated, or no longer meets your security needs. A locksmith in Orlando will recommend a full lock change in these situations:
Quick Decision Guide: Rekey or Change?
Use this quick reference to find the right answer for your situation:
I just moved into a new place.
Rekey. Your locks are likely fine — you just need to eliminate old key copies.
My lock is hard to turn or is sticking.
Change. Mechanical failure means the lock hardware itself is the problem.
Someone broke into my home.
Change. Even if the lock looks intact, internal damage from forced entry is common.
I lost my keys, but my locks work fine.
Rekey. No need to replace working hardware — just turn off the lost key.
My locks are 15+ years old.
Change. Older locks lack modern bump-and-pick resistance. Upgrade the hardware.
My locks are 15+ years old.
Change. Older locks lack modern bump-and-pick resistance. Upgrade the hardware.
I want all my doors on one key.
Rekey (keyed alike). A locksmith rekeys every lock to match a single master key.
I manage rental properties in Orlando.
Rekey between tenants. Change only when the hardware is worn or you want to upgrade.
I want a smart lock or keypad.
Change. New technology requires new hardware.
When to Call a Locksmith for Rekeying or Lock Changes in Orlando
Whether you need rekeying or a full lock change, a professional locksmith in Orlando can assess your locks on-site and recommend the right solution before any work begins. Key Copy By Mo provides upfront pricing with no hidden fees for both residential and commercial locksmith services throughout the entire Orlando metro area. Every job includes a written quote before work starts, so you know exactly what you are paying.
Worried about choosing the right locksmith? Read our locksmith scam warning guide to learn how to verify a legitimate locksmith in Orlando before you call.
How Much Does Rekeying vs Changing Locks Cost in Orlando?
Rekeying cost in Orlando: $15–$35 per lock on average. A standard 3-lock residential rekey typically runs $50–$100 total, including the service call. Cost increases for high-security cylinders or commercial-grade hardware.
Lock change cost in Orlando: $75–$300+ per lock, depending on the hardware selected. A basic deadbolt replacement runs $75–$15,0, including hardware and labor. High—security locks, smart locks, and commercial-grade hardware drive costs higher.
Rekeying is typically 60–80% less expensive than changing locks because the existing hardware stays installed. The primary cost difference is the lock hardware itself — rekeying only requires new pins (a few dollars in parts), while a lock change requires purchasing a completely new lock unit.
Why online price estimates miss the mark for Orlando: National aggregator averages do not reflect Orlando’s unique demand patterns. High vacation-rental turnover in the Kissimmee–Champions Gate corridor, gated-community access protocols that add service time, and humidity-accelerated lock corrosion on exterior doors all affect real-world pricing in Central Florida. For an accurate quote based on your specific locks and property, call Key Copy By Mo for a free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions: Rekeying vs Changing Locks
Yes. Rekeying costs $15–$35 per lock in Orlando because the existing hardware stays installed. Changing locks costs $75–$300+ per lock because you are purchasing and installing entirely new hardware. Rekeying is typically 60–80% less expensive. See our Orlando locksmith pricing guide for detailed cost breakdowns by service type.
Change the locks. A break-in can damage internal lock components that are not visible from the outside. Even if the lock still operates, hidden damage may compromise security. A full lock change ensures your doors are protected with undamaged hardware.
Most pin-tumbler locks can be rekeyed, including standard deadbolts, knob locks, and lever handles. Some electronic, smart, and proprietary-mechanism locks cannot be rekeyed and require full replacement. A locksmith can inspect your locks and confirm whether rekeying is an option.
Yes. A locksmith can change a damaged or outdated lock on one door while rekeying the remaining locks — and set all of them to work with the same new key. This combination approach is common for Orlando homeowners who want to upgrade their front door deadbolt while keeping functional locks on the side and back doors.
Yes. A locksmith can rekey any pin-tumbler lock to work with a key you already have. This is called "keying alike" and is commonly used to put all locks in a home or business on a single key. Key Copy By Mo offers keyed-alike rekeying across the Orlando metro area.
Rekeying takes 10–20 minutes per lock. A lock change takes 15–30 minutes per lock, depending on hardware compatibility and door preparation. Both services are completed on-site by a mobile locksmith in Orlando.
Yes — rekeying after buying a home is strongly recommended. Previous owners, realtors, contractors, cleaning crews, and neighbors may have copies of the existing keys. Rekeying all exterior locks immediately after closing eliminates that security gap. This is the single most common rekeying service Key Copy By Mo performs for Orlando homeowners.
Rekey between every tenant. Change locks every 5–7 years or when hardware shows visible wear, corrosion, or mechanical issues. Orlando’s humidity accelerates exterior lock degradation, so rental property managers in the Kissimmee and Orlando corridors often replace exterior locks more frequently than the national average.
Rekeying and Lock Change Service Areas
Key Copy By Mo provides professional rekeying and lock change services across the entire Orlando metro area, including:
Do you need rekeying or a lock change? Call Key Copy By Mo, and a locksmith in Orlando will assess your locks on-site, explain your options, and provide an upfront quote before any work begins—available 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Or text us anytime — or contact us online for a free estimate.