Knowing when to rekey locks can save you from bigger security problems later. Rekeying is a practical locksmith service that changes the lock cylinder so old keys no longer work, while the existing lock hardware can often stay in place.
For homes, rentals, body corporates and businesses across the Gold Coast, rekeying is often a smart option after moving, losing keys, changing tenants or dealing with staff changes. It gives you better control over who can access the property without always needing to replace every lock.
What does it mean to rekey locks?
Rekeying a lock means changing the internal pins or keying inside the cylinder. After the lock has been rekeyed, the old keys will no longer operate it. A new key is supplied to suit the changed lock.
This is different from replacing the whole lock. If the lock is still in good condition, rekeying can often be a faster and more cost-effective option than changing the complete lockset.
When should you rekey locks?
There are several times when rekeying is worth considering. The main reason is simple: you are no longer sure who has working keys to the property.
If keys have been lost, copied, handed to tenants, given to contractors or passed around over time, rekeying can help reset access and give you better control.
Rekey locks after moving into a new home
One of the best times to rekey locks is after moving into a new home. Even if the previous owner or agent handed over the keys, you may not know how many copies exist.
Old owners, tenants, cleaners, family members, trades or neighbours may have had access at some point. Rekeying the locks means the old keys no longer work, which gives you a fresh start with your home security.
Rekey after lost or stolen keys
If your keys are lost or stolen, rekeying should be considered as soon as possible. This is especially important if the keys were lost with identification, a wallet, a handbag, a work bag or anything that could link the keys to your address.
Even if you think the keys may turn up, rekeying removes the risk of someone using the old key later. For urgent situations, Goldy Locksmiths can help with 24 hour emergency locksmith services across the Gold Coast.
Rekey locks after tenant changes
Rental properties should be rekeyed when tenants change, especially if there is any doubt about how many keys were copied or returned. This applies to houses, units, apartments, granny flats and managed rental properties.
Rekeying helps protect the next tenant and reduces the risk of old keys still being in circulation. It can also help landlords and property managers keep better control over property access.
Rekey after staff changes
Businesses should also think about rekeying after staff changes. If an employee, contractor, cleaner or manager had keys and no longer works with the business, rekeying may be the safest option.
This is especially important for shops, offices, warehouses, storerooms, tills, cupboards, plant rooms and restricted areas. If your business has several doors or different access levels, a master key system or restricted key system may also be worth considering.
Rekey when keys have been copied too many times
Over time, it is easy to lose track of who has keys. Copies may have been made for family, friends, staff, trades, cleaners, tenants or neighbours. If you no longer have clear control, rekeying can help reset the system.
This is common in older homes, shared properties, rental properties and businesses with staff turnover. Rekeying can make access simpler and more secure.
Rekey or replace the lock?
Rekeying is not always the right answer. If the lock is damaged, worn, loose, unreliable or no longer suitable for the door, replacing the lock may be better.
A locksmith can check the condition of the lock and let you know whether it can be rekeyed or should be replaced. In many cases, rekeying is enough. In other cases, a new lock, stronger cylinder or better door hardware may be recommended.
Can multiple locks work from one key?
Yes, in many cases multiple locks can be keyed alike so one key operates several doors. This can be useful for homes, shops, offices and small commercial sites where you want to reduce the number of keys you carry.
For larger properties, a planned key system may be better. This can give different people access to different doors while still allowing an owner or manager to hold higher-level access.
Need your locks rekeyed on the Gold Coast?
Goldy Locksmiths provides mobile locksmith services across the Gold Coast for homes, rentals, businesses, body corporates and commercial sites. We can help with rekeying, lock repairs, lock replacement, key control and security upgrades.
For residential lock work, visit our residential locksmiths page. For shops, offices and business sites, visit our commercial locksmiths page.
To book a locksmith or request advice, contact Goldy Locksmiths through our contact page or call 0403 771 632.
Frequently asked questions
Is rekeying cheaper than replacing locks?
In many cases, rekeying is cheaper than replacing the full lock because the existing lock hardware can often stay in place. If the lock is damaged or worn, replacement may be a better option.
Should I rekey locks after buying a house?
Yes, it is usually a good idea to rekey locks after buying a house. You may not know how many old key copies exist or who still has them.
Can a locksmith rekey all my locks to one key?
Often, yes. If the locks are compatible, a locksmith may be able to key multiple locks alike so one key operates several doors.
Should businesses rekey locks after staff leave?
Businesses should consider rekeying after staff changes if keys were issued and there is any uncertainty about whether all copies were returned.
