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 New York, NY
Lock rekeying in New York typically costs $85-$150 per cylinder, depending on the lock brand and hardware complexity, and is usually completed in one visit. This service involves modifying the internal pins of your existing lock so that old keys no longer work, while keeping the original deadbolt or knob hardware intact. At Novak Lock & Security New York, we perform this service for homeowners across the five boroughs, ensuring that your security is restored without the need for unnecessary hardware replacement. If you are looking for a broader scope of service, we encourage you to review our Residential Locksmith in New York page for full details on our capabilities.
We operate under The Haven Standard, which means we provide a firm, written price before any work begins. We do not use bait-and-switch tactics. When you call (551) 214-0800, our dispatcher provides a clear price, and that is the price you pay-no surprises, no doorstep upcharges, and no hidden fees. Every job we perform is backed by our 365-Day Done Right Promise. If a lock we rekeyed does not function perfectly, we make it right, period.
When You Need Lock Rekey
Many New York homeowners call our Residential Locksmith services for a rekey because the security of their home has been compromised or simply because they want to control who has access to their property. We handle these situations daily, applying the same documented procedure to every visit.
- Moving into a new home or apartment: You never know who has a spare key from a previous tenant, a real estate agent, or a contractor. Rekeying is the only way to ensure only you and your family have access.
- Lost or stolen keys: If your keys were lost in a public space, like a subway station or a park, you cannot be certain who found them. Rekeying secures your home immediately.
- Divorce or roommate changes: When a living arrangement ends, rekeying your locks is a standard security measure to ensure former residents no longer have entry.
- High-traffic rental units: If you manage a condo or townhouse and have had multiple turnovers, we can rekey your locks to a master key system or simply update the access for new tenants.
- Aging or sticky hardware: Sometimes a lock feels like it needs replacement, but it only needs a professional rekey and internal cleaning. We assess the condition of your hardware-such as Baldwin, Yale, or Schlage-to determine if it is still sound before we perform any work.
If you aren’t sure if your hardware is worth saving, call us at (551) 214-0800. We provide a free second opinion on any written estimate you have received from another company. We prioritize honesty over upselling.
Our Lock Rekey Process
We do not rush our work. Every visit follows a strict sequence to ensure your security is never compromised. We are a locally operated business, and we take pride in the quality of our work under The Haven Standard.
- Assessment: Our technician arrives in a marked vehicle, in uniform, and performs a visual inspection of your existing locks. We verify the brand (e.g., Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Abloy) and confirm the hardware is in good enough condition to be rekeyed.
- Written Quote: Before we touch a single tool, we provide a written price for the job. This is the price you agreed to on the phone, and it does not change.
- Disassembly: We carefully remove the cylinder from your lock. This requires precision, especially with high-security locks that contain complex pinning systems.
- Re-pinning: We remove the old pins and replace them with new pins that match a brand-new key. This renders every old key you have useless.
- Testing: We test the new key in the cylinder multiple times to ensure smooth operation. We then reinstall the cylinder and test the latching mechanism to ensure it operates correctly in the door frame.
- Documentation: We leave you with a documented photo record of the work performed, which serves as your receipt and proof of service. This record is part of our standard procedure, not an extra service.
Please note: If your locks are high-security or contain complex spring mechanisms, it is essential that these are serviced by a trained professional. Attempting to disassemble these locks without the proper tools can result in permanent damage to the lock or, in some cases, pinch injuries. We use specialized equipment to ensure the job is done safely.
Lock Rekey Pricing in New York
At Novak Lock & Security New York, we believe that pricing should be transparent. You should know what you are paying before we arrive at your door. The following table provides the typical cost ranges for our rekeying services. Factors such as the type of lock (standard vs. high-security) and the number of cylinders will influence the final price.
| Service Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Door Lock Rekey (per cylinder) | $85 - $120 |
| High-Security Lock Rekey (per cylinder) | $110 - $150+ |
| Service Call Fee (covers travel and assessment) | Included in quoted price |
We do not have hidden fees. If you have a specific brand like Baldwin or Medeco, please mention this when you call (551) 214-0800, as these require specific key blanks and specialized pins. We provide free estimates for all residential work in New York, NY.
FAQs - Lock Rekey
How much does it cost to rekey a house in New York?
A standard lock rekey in New York typically costs $85-$150 per cylinder, depending on the complexity of the lock mechanism-see our guide on How Much Does Residential Locksmith Cost? (2026 Price Guide) for more details. We provide a firm, written price for the entire job before we start, so you never have to worry about surprise charges at your door. Call (551) 214-0800 for an exact quote on your specific hardware.
Is it cheaper to replace or rekey my locks?
Rekeying is almost always more cost-effective than replacing your locks, provided your current hardware is in good working order. Rekeying keeps the existing, often high-quality, exterior hardware in place and simply changes the internal pins so that new keys work. If your hardware is damaged or failing, we will tell you honestly, but we will never push for a replacement if a rekey is all you need.
How long does the rekeying process take?
Most residential lockout and rekey jobs are completed in a single visit, usually within an hour, depending on how many locks are being serviced. We are equipped to handle most standard and high-security locks on the spot, allowing you to secure your home immediately without waiting for parts or follow-up visits. Call (551) 214-0800 to schedule a time that fits your day.
Can you rekey high-security locks like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock?
Yes, we are experienced in servicing high-security cylinders from major manufacturers including Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Abloy. These locks require specific proprietary pins and key blanks, which we carry, and they demand a higher level of precision than standard entry-grade locks. If you have high-security hardware, please let us know when you call so we can ensure the correct components are on the truck.
Why Choose Novak Lock & Security?
We are a locally operated business that focuses on precision and documentation. Since 2002, we have completed over 60,000 jobs, and every single one started with a written price and ended with a documented record. We do not use aggressive sales tactics, and we do not have automated systems that keep you from speaking to a human. When you call us, you speak with a person who understands how to secure a home in New York.
Our technicians are background-checked and uniformed, arriving in a vehicle that is clearly marked. We respect your property and your time. Whether you live in a brownstone in Brooklyn or a high-rise in Manhattan, we apply the same rigorous standards to every lock we touch. If you need a home security assessment or a professional rekey, we are ready to help.
For a reliable, upfront, and professional locksmith service in New York, call (551) 214-0800. We provide free estimates and are available to answer your questions about your home security. We look forward to securing your home the right way.
Written by Daniel Novak, Owner at Novak Lock & Security New York, serving New York.