Rekey or Replace? What LA Renters and New Homeowners Should Do After Moving In

Rekeying means a locksmith changes the internal pin configuration of your existing lock cylinder so that the old keys no longer work. The lock hardware stays exactly where it is — the deadbolt, the knob, the strike plate — but the mechanical 'code' inside gets reset. Any key that worked before is now useless. New keys are cut to match the new configuration. It's a clean, fast process that a skilled locksmith can complete in a matter of minutes per lock.

For most LA renters and new homeowners moving into a property where the hardware itself is in good working condition, rekeying is completely sufficient from a security standpoint. If your deadbolt is a quality brand like Schlage or Kwikset, less than a few years old, and operates smoothly without wobble or stiffness, there's no functional reason to tear it out and start over. You're not cutting corners — you're making a smart, security-focused decision. The only thing rekeying doesn't fix is a weak or worn-out lock mechanism.

There are specific scenarios where rekeying simply isn't enough, and a professional locksmith will tell you so honestly. If the existing locks are visibly damaged — corroded, loose in the door frame, or showing signs of tampering — replacement is the right move. The same goes for older, low-grade hardware that offers minimal resistance to picking or bumping. Many older Los Angeles apartment buildings and homes, particularly those built in the 1960s and 70s, still have basic builder-grade locks that provide little real protection. Upgrading to a Grade 1 deadbolt with a reinforced strike plate is a meaningful security improvement, not just an aesthetic one.

You should also consider full replacement if you're upgrading to a smart lock or keypad entry system, if you're dealing with a property that was foreclosed or vacant for an extended period, or if there's any reason to believe the lock was previously tampered with. In these cases, the issue isn't just who has a key — it's the integrity of the hardware itself. A trained locksmith will inspect the lock, assess the door frame condition, and give you a straight recommendation without upselling you on work you don't need.

If you're renting in Los Angeles, California law is actually on your side here. Under California Civil Code Section 1941, landlords are required to maintain rental units in habitable condition — and that includes functional, secure locks. More directly, California Civil Code Section 1946.7 (and related tenant protections) gives victims of domestic violence the right to request lock changes. But even outside those specific situations, many renters don't realize they can formally request that their landlord rekey the unit before or at move-in. Put that request in writing and keep a copy.

If your landlord refuses or drags their feet, you may have the right to rekey the locks yourself in certain circumstances and deduct the cost from rent — but consult a tenant's rights resource or attorney before taking that step, since procedures matter. For homeowners, the decision is entirely yours. One practical tip: if you just closed escrow on a property in a neighborhood like Sherman Oaks, Tarzana, or Reseda, consider that real estate transactions involve a lot of key handoffs — agents, inspectors, contractors, stagers. Rekeying or replacing on day one is standard practice for any experienced locksmith serving new homeowners.

When you call a locksmith about rekeying or replacing locks, the quote you receive will depend on several factors: the number of locks being serviced, the type and brand of hardware involved, whether you need new keys cut or existing ones duplicated, the time of day (a middle-of-the-night emergency call versus a scheduled daytime appointment), and how far the locksmith needs to travel to reach your location. Replacement jobs also factor in the cost of the new hardware itself — a basic deadbolt, a high-security Grade 1 unit, and a smart lock with Bluetooth access all sit at very different levels.

At Encino Locksmith Corp, we confirm an exact up-front price before any work begins — no surprise charges after the job is done. That applies whether you're calling us for a straightforward rekey of two doors or a full hardware upgrade across an entire property. If you want to get ahead of the process, call us at (818) 450-5144 and describe your situation. We'll give you a clear picture of what's involved and what the job will cost before we ever roll a truck.

Here's a practical way to think through it. Rekey if: the locks are less than 5–7 years old and in solid working condition, you're moving into a rental or purchased home where the hardware is quality-grade, you simply want to ensure no old keys work, and there's no sign of tampering or damage. Replace if: the locks are visibly worn, loose, or corroded; the hardware is builder-grade and you want a genuine security upgrade; you're installing smart locks or keyless entry; the property was vacant, foreclosed, or involved in any kind of break-in attempt; or a locksmith inspects them and recommends it.

When in doubt, have a qualified locksmith look at the locks in person before you decide. An experienced professional can spot wear, misalignment, and vulnerability that isn't obvious to the untrained eye. A quick inspection takes only a few minutes and gives you real information instead of guesswork. Encino Locksmith Corp serves all of Los Angeles — from the Valley neighborhoods like Encino, Tarzana, and Van Nuys to communities on the Westside and beyond. We're a mobile locksmith team, which means we come to you, on your schedule, any time of day or night. Reach us at (818) 450-5144 — we answer 24/7.