How to Rekey a Lock in Your New Home

Getting the keys to your new home is an exciting moment — it means all your hard work during the real estate process has paid off. However, before you start scheduling movers, it’s a good idea to learn how to rekey a lock so that your new space remains secure.

You might be wondering, “How do you rekey a lock, and why does it matter?” In a nutshell, the process involves changing the key pins inside the locking mechanism, which renders an old key or set of keys unusable. This way, any keys still floating around from past homeowners, renters, or service providers won’t work.

Learn why this task is a crucial first step before moving into your new home, and follow our step-by-step instructions on how to rekey a lock.

Why Rekeying Locks Matters

When you buy a home, you want to feel confident that your family and belongings are safe. Rekeying locks is one of the simplest ways to get that peace of mind. Even if the previous owners handed over all their keys, there’s no way to know if extra copies are still out there. Neighbors, pet sitters, contractors, or relatives could still have access.

The fastest way to restore security is to rekey your locks as soon as possible after closing.

Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks

You may be weighing whether to rekey or replace your locks entirely. Here’s the difference:

• Rekeying a lock involves keeping the existing hardware and replacing the key pins inside, so that a new key works while the old key does not.
• Replacing a lock means removing the whole lock assembly and installing a new one.

Replacing is sometimes necessary, but it’s more expensive and time-consuming than rekeying.

You might replace locks if:

• You bought an older home with worn-out or damaged locks.
• Your doors have locks from different brands, making it impossible to use the same key everywhere.
• You want to upgrade to a keyless entry system with digital or Wi-Fi access.

If the locks are in good shape and you want a budget-friendly solution, learning how to rekey a lock is usually the better choice.

How to Rekey a Lock: Step-by-Step Guide

Rekeying sounds complicated, but with the right kit, it’s something many handy homeowners can do themselves. The only thing you'll need to buy is a rekeying kit for the brand of door lock that you have. Here’s how to rekey a lock step by step:

Step 1: Remove the Doorknob

Refer to your rekeying kit for instructions on removing the doorknob for your particular brand. Unlock the door, turn the knob counterclockwise, and use the tool from your rekeying kit to pop off the knob.

Step 2: Remove the Cylinde

The doorknob's cylinder is inside the knob. If your knob has a cap on the back, simply remove it and then take out the cylinder. Again, your rekeying kit may have more specific instructions and tools for this step.

Step 3: Remove the C-Clip

Take off the small clip on the back of the cylinder.

Step 4: Remove the Key Plug and Original Pins

Inside the cylinder is the key plug. Using the tool provided in your kit, push this plug through and out of the cylinder. Next, remove the old pins and discard them.

Step 5: Insert the New Key and Pins

Now it's time to insert the new key in the key plug along with the new pins from the kit. Make sure that each pin is inserted into the correct location. You'll know they aren't inserted correctly if the pins aren't flush with the plug.

Step 6: Reinsert the Key Plug

Slide the plug back into the cylinder while keeping the new key in place. The tool from the rekey kit will be pushed out.

Step 7: Reassemble Everything

Replace the C-clip, put the cylinder back into the knob, and reattach the knob to the door. Once reassembled, test the lock several times with your new key to make sure everything works smoothly.

How Much Does It Cost to Rekey a Lock?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “How much does it cost to rekey a lock?” The answer depends on whether you do it yourself or hire a pro:

• DIY rekeying: A rekeying kit typically costs $10 to $50, depending on the brand.
• Hiring a locksmith: You may pay $50 to $200 or more, depending on labor rates and how many locks in your home need new keys.

For many homeowners, the small investment in rekeying is worth the peace of mind that comes with knowing only you have the keys to open your doors.

Rekey Service from First American

Knowing how to rekey a lock is one of the easiest ways to protect your home right after moving in. But First American Home Warranty makes the rekeying process even easier. Our home warranty plans for buyers include a one-time rekey service. After paying your service fee, a locksmith will rekey up to six locks and provide you with four copies of the new keys.

You can request rekeying service online through your account or by contacting us by phone. It’s a simple way to secure your new home without having to handle the project yourself.

About to buy a new home? See how our real estate home warranty plans can help protect your essential appliances and systems.

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The contents of this article are provided for general guidance only. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information.

Please be aware that if you disassemble a covered system or item, it can invalidate your home warranty or manufacturer's warranty.