How Much Does It Cost to Change Locks on a House?

November 4, 2026 · 6 min read

The cost to change locks on a house starts at $95 plus hardware; rekeying starts at $65 per lock. A lock change replaces the lock, while rekeying changes which key works with the existing lock.

Our Starting Prices in Salt Lake City

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What the Cost to Change Locks on a House Covers

A lock change replaces the lock hardware, so the starting price is $95 plus hardware. The hardware cost is additional, and the type of lock you choose affects what you need to buy. Our lock change service is available if you want a locksmith to handle the replacement.

Rekeying keeps compatible lock hardware in place but changes its keying so the old key no longer operates it. Our starting price for that service is $65 per lock. If you are comparing options, check our prices alongside the work you actually need rather than treating a lock change and a rekey as the same job.

The right choice depends on the condition of the hardware and what you want to accomplish. A worn, damaged, or unsuitable lock may call for replacement; a working lock that simply needs to accept a different key may be a candidate for rekeying.

Should You Replace or Rekey the House Locks?

Three House Lock Situations and Their Starting Prices

If you want to replace a working front-door lock with new hardware, a lock change starts at $95 plus hardware. That is the relevant starting price when you want a different lock or the existing hardware needs replacement.

If the lock works but you want the old key to stop working, rekeying starts at $65 per lock. This may fit after a move or a change in who should have access, if the lock is compatible with rekeying.

If you are locked out and need help getting back inside rather than changing the lock, a house lockout starts at $65. Tell the locksmith whether you also want the lock changed or rekeyed so the job can be discussed clearly.

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What to Check Before Buying a Replacement House Lock

• Identify the lock type — Check whether you are replacing a deadbolt, a knob or lever lock, or another type. The replacement needs to suit the function and layout of the door.
• Measure the door and existing openings — Use a tape measure to check door thickness and the relevant dimensions of the existing lock openings. Compare those measurements with the product requirements before purchasing.
• Look at the door’s condition — Check whether the latch and bolt move freely and whether the door closes without forcing it. Misalignment or worn parts may need attention along with the lock.
• Decide how many keys and locks are involved — List the doors you want to address and consider whether you want a separate key for each or a shared key arrangement. Confirm compatibility before assuming one key can operate multiple locks.
• Keep the maker’s instructions handy — Use instructions for the exact lock you are installing. Schlage support and Kwikset support provide product help for their locks.

How to Replace a House Lock You Own

If you choose a DIY replacement, work only on a lock and door you own or are authorized to maintain. Keep the door open while fitting and testing the lock so you do not accidentally lock yourself out.

1. Gather the parts and tools — Set out the replacement lock, its instructions, a screwdriver, and a tape measure. Check that the box contains the parts shown in the instructions before taking the old lock apart.
2. Confirm the new lock fits — Compare the lock type and door measurements with the manufacturer’s requirements. If the parts or door preparation do not match, stop and get guidance rather than forcing the hardware.
3. Keep the door open — Open the door fully and keep it open throughout the work. Check that it cannot swing shut while you remove or install the lock.
4. Remove the existing lock as instructed — Use the screwdriver to remove the visible mounting screws and separate the lock parts according to the product instructions. Check that you have accounted for the old lock parts and can see the door openings clearly.
5. Fit the latch and lock parts — Position the latch and exterior and interior pieces in the orientation shown in the instructions. Check that the latch faces the correct direction and that the parts sit flat against the door.
6. Tighten the fasteners evenly — Secure the mounting screws without overtightening them. Check that the lock remains aligned and that the keyway and interior turn piece move freely.
7. Test before closing the door — With the door still open, try the key and operate the interior turn piece several times. Check that the bolt extends and retracts smoothly before testing the lock with the door closed.

What Can Go Wrong During a House Lock Change?

A replacement that does not match the door openings can sit crooked, bind, or fail to secure the door properly. Forcing a mismatched latch or lock can damage the door or hardware, so stop if the parts do not fit as instructed.

A bolt that works with the door open but catches when the door is shut can point to an alignment issue between the lock and the door frame. Do not assume the problem is fixed just because the key turns; check operation both before and after closing the door.

Stripped screws, damaged lock parts, or uncertainty about the existing hardware are good reasons to stop the DIY work. Keep the door open if the lock is not functioning reliably, and contact a locksmith rather than leaving a faulty lock in service.

Need help now? (385) 853-5247

When to Call a Locksmith for a House Lock Change

Call a locksmith if the lock is damaged, the replacement parts do not fit, or you cannot get the latch and bolt to operate smoothly. A locksmith can also help you decide whether replacing the hardware or rekeying a compatible lock better matches your situation.

We are a mobile locksmith open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and come to you. For help with a house lock change in our service area, contact us and describe the lock and the problem you are trying to solve.

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