Non-destructive entry first, always - and we re-key Schlage, Kwikset, and Baldwin locks on the spot while you watch
You get a price before we start. It does not change when we arrive. No surprises.
Lock Rekey in Atlanta, GA
Lock rekeying in Atlanta typically costs between $95 and $160 per cylinder, depending on the lock brand and the complexity of the internal pin system. We provide firm, written pricing over the phone before we arrive, and that price remains unchanged when we reach your door. Rekeying is the process of changing the internal pins of your existing lock so that old keys no longer work, effectively securing your home without the expense of replacing perfectly functional hardware. At Novak Lock & Security Atlanta, we perform this service on-site for homeowners across the metro area, ensuring your property remains secure. For a broader view of our capabilities, you can visit our Residential Locksmith in Atlanta page.
If you have recently moved into a home in neighborhoods like Buckhead, Midtown, or Decatur, you cannot be certain who still holds a copy of your house keys. Realtors, contractors, former tenants, or previous owners may have duplicates. Rekeying is the standard procedure to reset your security baseline. As an independently owned Residential Locksmith operating under The Haven Standard, we provide upfront, documented pricing. You can reach our team at (470) 944-6813 to schedule a visit or receive a firm quote.
When You Need Lock Rekey
You should consider rekeying your locks whenever the security of your home is in question. We see these scenarios daily across Atlanta, from the historic homes in Inman Park to new construction in Vinings, and can help with any Residential Lockout situation.
- New Home Purchases: When you buy a home, you never know how many copies of the key are circulating. Rekeying gives you a clean slate and ensures that only you and your family have access.
- Lost or Stolen Keys: If you lose a keychain that includes your address or is identifiable, the risk is immediate. We recommend rekeying the locks immediately rather than hoping the keys were simply misplaced.
- Ending a Lease or Roommate Situation: If a tenant moves out or a roommate leaves, rekeying prevents them from using an old key to re-enter the property. This is a common requirement for property owners in dense areas like Downtown Atlanta.
- Hardware Maintenance: In Georgia, our high humidity often causes metal parts to expand or stick. When we perform a rekey, we also inspect the door alignment and the strike plate. If the lock is stiff or the latch is not catching, a rekey is the perfect time to service the mechanism to prevent lockouts.
- Consolidating Keys: Many homeowners have a different key for the front door, back door, and garage entry. We can often rekey these locks to work with a single key, simplifying your daily routine.
Our Lock Rekey Process
We approach every job with the same procedure, governed by The Haven Standard. This ensures that every lock we service is documented and tested before we leave your property. Our technicians are background-checked and uniformed.
- Initial Assessment: We arrive at your home and inspect the existing hardware. We verify the brand (such as Schlage, Kwikset, or Medeco) to ensure we have the correct pins and components on hand.
- Cylinder Removal: Our technician carefully removes the lock cylinder from the door. We advise against attempting this yourself, especially with high-security locks like Medeco or Abloy, as the internal springs and pins are under tension and can easily be damaged or lost if the cylinder is mishandled.
- Pin Replacement: We disassemble the cylinder and remove the old pins. We install a new set of pins that corresponds to a brand-new cut of keys. This renders all previous keys useless.
- Reassembly and Testing: The cylinder is reassembled and lubricated. We test the new key in the lock multiple times to ensure it turns smoothly and catches properly.
- Documentation: We provide you with a written scope of work and a photo record of the job. This documentation serves as your proof of service and is part of our commitment to transparency.
Lock Rekey Pricing in Atlanta
We believe in firm, upfront pricing. Under Clause 1 of The Haven Standard, the price we quote you over the phone is the price you pay on the invoice. We do not use bait-and-switch tactics. For detailed information, see How Much Does Residential Locksmith Cost? (2026 Price Guide) - Atlanta, GA.
| Service Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Door Cylinder Rekey | $95 – $130 per cylinder |
| High-Security Lock Rekey (e.g., Medeco, Abloy) | $120 – $160 per cylinder |
| Master Key System Setup | $140 – $180 per system |
If you have multiple locks that need to be keyed alike, we can often provide a discount on the total service. Call us at (470) 944-6813 for an exact quote. Estimates are always free.
FAQs - Lock Rekey
How long does it take to rekey a lock in Atlanta?
A standard rekey typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes for a typical residential home with three to four locks. We value your time, so we arrive prepared with the necessary tools and parts to complete the work in a single visit. Call (470) 944-6813 to schedule a time that fits your day.
Is it cheaper to replace the locks or just rekey them?
Rekeying is almost always more cost-effective than replacing the entire lockset, provided your existing hardware is in good condition. If your current locks are high-quality brands like Baldwin or Schlage, it makes more sense to rekey them rather than buying new hardware of lower quality. We will inspect your locks and give you an honest recommendation on whether they are worth keeping.
Can I rekey the locks myself using a kit from the hardware store?
Attempting to rekey your own locks carries a high risk of damaging the cylinder, especially if you are working with high-security brands like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, or Abloy. These locks contain complex pin configurations and tension springs that require specialized tools to handle without causing permanent damage. If you damage the internal pins or the plug, you will likely need to replace the entire lockset, which will cost significantly more than hiring a professional to do it right the first time. We recommend leaving this to a trained technician.
Do you work on high-security locks?
Yes, we are equipped to service high-security cylinders from brands like Medeco, Abloy, and Mul-T-Lock. These locks require specific proprietary pins and key blanks that are not available at standard retail stores. Our technicians are trained to handle these systems according to manufacturer specifications. Call (470) 944-6813 to discuss your specific security needs.
At Novak Lock & Security Atlanta, we stand behind our work with the 365-Day Done Right Promise. If you experience any issues with the locks we have rekeyed, we will return to make it right. We do not use automated systems or call centers; when you call our number, you speak directly to a person who can provide a firm quote and schedule your service. If you are ready to secure your home, search Residential Locksmith Near Me in Atlanta, GA or call (470) 944-6813 for a free estimate.
Written by Daniel Novak, Owner at Novak Lock & Security Atlanta, serving Atlanta since 2002.