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 Long Beach, CA
A lock rekey in Long Beach typically costs between $85 and $160 per cylinder, depending on the lock brand and the complexity of the internal mechanism. At Novak Lock & Security, we provide this service by modifying your existing hardware to accept a new key, rendering all old keys useless without the expense of full hardware replacement. We serve the entire Long Beach area, from the historic homes in Bluff Park to the newer developments near the Long Beach Towne Center. When you call (424) 340-6795, our dispatcher provides a firm, written price before any technician is dispatched, ensuring you know exactly what the job costs before we arrive.
As part of our Residential Locksmith in Long Beach services, rekeying is the standard procedure for restoring security when you aren’t sure who has a copy of your key. We operate under The Haven Standard, which means we document every step of the process. You receive a written scope of work and a photo record of the cylinders we serviced once the job is complete. Whether you are dealing with a standard Schlage deadbolt or a high-security cylinder from a brand like Mul-T-Lock, we ensure the new key operates smoothly and the hardware is secure.
When You Need Lock Rekey
You don’t always need to replace your hardware to upgrade your security. A rekey is often the most practical solution when the physical lock is in good condition but the key control has been compromised. We recommend a rekey in the following situations:
- Moving into a new Long Beach property: Even if you received keys from the previous owner or a realtor, you have no way of knowing how many copies are floating around with contractors, neighbors, or former tenants.
- Lost or stolen keys: If your keys were lost in a public place like the beach or a shopping center, rekeying prevents unauthorized access.
- Employee or roommate turnover: If a roommate or former staff member moves out and does not return their key, rekeying immediately secures the home.
- Key breakage or wear: If your key is struggling to turn in the cylinder, the pins inside may be worn. Rekeying allows us to replace the pins, which often solves the issue without needing to buy a new lock.
- Standardizing your home security: If you have four different doors in your home all using different keys, we can rekey them all to operate with a single key, simplifying your daily routine.
Our Lock Rekey Process
We follow a strict, documented procedure for every rekey. This process ensures that the lock is not just functional, but meets the security requirements of your specific hardware.
- Assessment: Our technician arrives at your Long Beach home and inspects the existing hardware. We verify the brand and grade of the lock-whether it is a standard residential knob or a high-security Abloy cylinder-to ensure we have the correct pin kits on hand.
- Disassembly: We carefully remove the cylinder from your door hardware. We do not remove the entire lock assembly from the door unless it is necessary to reach the cylinder, keeping the structural integrity of your door intact.
- Pinning: We remove the old pins and springs from the cylinder plug. We then install new, factory-spec pins that correspond to the cut of your new keys. This is the stage where the old keys are permanently invalidated.
- Verification: We test the cylinder with the new keys multiple times to ensure smooth operation, checking for any sticking or resistance.
- Documentation: Per Haven Standard Clause 4, we provide a documented photo record of the service performed and a written warranty for the work. You receive this documentation before the technician leaves your property.
Lock Rekey Pricing in Long Beach
We believe that pricing should be transparent. You will never encounter “starting at” pricing that balloons into a high bill once the technician arrives. When you call (424) 340-6795, the price we quote is the price you pay.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Residential Cylinder Rekey | $85 – $120 per cylinder |
| High-Security Cylinder Rekey (Mul-T-Lock/Medeco) | $120 – $160 per cylinder |
| Service Call / Trip Fee | Included in the quoted total |
Factors that influence the final cost include the brand of the hardware and whether the lock requires specialized, restricted key blanks. For example, a standard Schlage or Kwikset lock is straightforward, while a high-security Sargent or Abloy lock requires specific manufacturer-certified pins and keys. If you have a competitor’s quote, bring it to us. We offer a free second opinion on any written estimate to ensure you are paying a fair market rate for the work performed.
FAQs - Lock Rekey
Is it cheaper to repair or replace my locks?
In most cases, rekeying is significantly more cost-effective than replacing hardware. If your current locks are high-quality, durable hardware, replacing them is unnecessary and creates more waste; rekeying gives you the exact same security benefit of a new key without the labor and material costs of installing entirely new locksets. Call (424) 340-6795 for a specific quote on your hardware.
Can you rekey high-security locks like Mul-T-Lock?
Yes, we are fully equipped to service high-security cylinders from brands like Mul-T-Lock, Medeco, and Abloy. These locks require specific manufacturer-authorized pins and tools, and our technicians are trained to work with these systems while maintaining the security integrity of the cylinder.
How long does the rekeying process take?
A typical rekey takes about 20 to 30 minutes per cylinder, depending on the lock type and its condition. If you have a home with multiple doors, we can usually complete a standard house rekey in under two hours. We work efficiently, but we never rush, as the precision of the pin alignment is what keeps your lock functioning smoothly for years.
Do I need to be home for the rekeying service?
Yes, we require an adult to be present at the property during the service. This allows us to verify that you have authorized access to the property and enables us to hand over the new keys and the documented photo record upon completion of the job.
Secure Your Home Today
When you need a lock rekey in Long Beach, you need a technician who respects your time and your property. At Novak Lock & Security, we don’t use hidden fees or pressure tactics. We provide a firm, written price before we start, and we stand behind our work with our 365-Day Done Right Promise. If you have questions about your existing hardware or want to schedule a service, call (424) 340-6795. Our team is ready to provide an accurate estimate and get your home secured. You can also view our full range of services on our home page to see how we handle everything from emergency lockouts to complex high-security installations.
Written by Daniel Novak, Owner at Novak Lock & Security Long Beach, serving Long Beach.