Is It Cheaper to Rekey or Replace Locks in London?
Rekeying vs Lock Replacement: Which Should You Choose?
When you need to change access to your property - perhaps after moving in, losing a key, or after a relationship breakdown - you have two main options: rekeying the existing locks or replacing them entirely.
Both achieve the same fundamental goal: ensuring that old keys no longer work. But they differ significantly in cost, time, and the circumstances where each is appropriate.
What Is Rekeying?
Rekeying involves a locksmith changing the internal pin configuration of the lock cylinder. The tumblers are replaced so that the lock now responds to a new key, and old keys will no longer work.
The lock mechanism itself stays in place - only the key pattern changes.
Advantages of Rekeying
- Lower cost - Rekeying typically costs around £50, compared to approximately £100 or more for full replacement
- Quicker - The process can often be completed in minutes on-site
- Less disruption - No drilling, no fitting, no damage to the door or frame
- Ideal for new tenants or new owners - If the lock is in good condition, rekeying gives you full access control without unnecessary expense
Disadvantages of Rekeying
- Doesn’t address worn locks - If the existing lock is old, worn, or of poor quality, rekeying may not be worth doing; you’d be investing in a substandard lock
- No security upgrade - Rekeying doesn’t improve the security rating of the lock; if you need a better lock, you need to replace it
- No aesthetic change - The lock looks exactly the same after rekeying
What Is Lock Replacement?
Lock replacement involves removing the existing lock entirely and fitting a new one. This is a more involved job - the new lock must be correctly measured and aligned with the door frame and keep.
For a full lock change service in London, our team carries a range of British Standard locks for all door types.
Advantages of Lock Replacement
- Security upgrade - A new lock can offer significantly better protection than an old one, particularly if you upgrade to an anti-snap cylinder or a higher-rated mortice lock
- Modern features - New locks can include smart entry, keypad access, or other features
- Fresh start - Eliminates any concerns about the condition or history of the existing mechanism
- Peace of mind - Many homeowners prefer to know exactly what is protecting their property
Disadvantages of Lock Replacement
- Higher cost - Expect to pay roughly twice the cost of rekeying, plus the price of the new lock
- More time-consuming - Installation takes longer than rekeying, particularly for mortice locks
- Not always necessary - If the existing lock is in good condition and of adequate quality, replacement may not be justified
Which Option Is Right for You?
| Situation | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Moving into a new property, locks in good condition | Rekeying |
| Lost a key, lock still works well | Rekeying |
| Existing lock is old or worn | Replacement |
| Want a security upgrade | Replacement |
| Lock needs to meet insurance requirements | Replacement (to ensure correct standard) |
| Want smart or keypad access | Replacement |
Cost Summary
- Rekeying: approximately £55-£80 per lock in London
- Lock replacement (labour + standard lock): approximately £95-£170 per lock, depending on lock type
For a full price guide, see our locksmith price list.
Insurance Considerations for London Properties
If you are rekeying or replacing locks for insurance purposes, it is worth checking your policy wording carefully. Many home insurance policies in London specify that external door locks must meet British Standard BS3621 (or the newer BS8621 for accessible locks). Rekeying an existing lock that already meets this standard is straightforward - the standard relates to the lock mechanism, not the key pattern, so your compliance is unaffected.
However, if your current locks do not meet BS3621, rekeying them will not bring them up to standard. In that case, replacement with a compliant lock is the better investment, as it simultaneously secures your property and satisfies your insurer. If you are unsure whether your locks meet the required standard, a locksmith can check on-site in a matter of minutes.
Rekeying and Replacing Locks for Landlords
London landlords and letting agents have additional considerations. Between tenancies, rekeying is a cost-effective way to ensure departing tenants no longer have access. However, if the property has experienced heavy use or the locks are approaching the end of their lifespan, replacement during a void period is more practical than dealing with a lock failure while a new tenant is in residence.
For HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) properties, each bedroom door lock should be rekeyed or replaced between occupants. Given the number of locks involved, rekeying is usually the most affordable route unless the locks are visibly worn.
If you manage multiple properties across London, City Locksmith London offers competitive rates for residential locksmith services on a per-property or contract basis. We carry stock for same-day completion in most cases.
Get Professional Advice
Not sure which option is right for your situation? Our locksmiths can assess your current locks and recommend the most cost-effective solution.