Rekeying: a guide for pros

What customers ask, how to win the job, and what to put on your profile.

Offering rekeying

Rekeying is quick, repeat work that customers judge on one thing: whether every key works on the first try. Win it by testing every lock with every key and by explaining the key system clearly.

What customers ask

  • Can you rekey my lock without replacing it?
  • How long will it take?
  • Can all my doors use one key?
  • Do the old keys still work?
  • Will you keep a record of the keys?
  • Do I need new locks too?

How to win the job

  • On the call, ask how many locks and doors are involved, the lock brand if known, and whether the customer wants one key for all the locks.
  • Check the cylinder on site, and tell the customer whether the lock can be rekeyed or must be replaced.
  • Explain the key system in plain words, including what a master key does, before you cut any keys.
  • Quote the new keys by type and number, with each lock listed separately.
  • Test every lock with every new key, and record the results on the job sheet.
  • Leave the customer a key record and a note on how to order more keys.

What to put on your profile

  • Post photos of rekeyed cylinders and the key set laid out by door
  • List the lock brands and cylinder types you rekey
  • State whether you set up master key systems, and the size of system you handle
  • Show a sample key record with personal details removed

Follow-up that helps the customer

  • Offer a lock replacement for any cylinder that is worn, sticky or cannot be rekeyed
  • Suggest a keypad or smart lock upgrade for doors that have many key holders
  • Recommend a yearly check of the cylinders and strikes on the home's main doors

Licenses and permits

Rekeying is commonly done by locksmiths, and some states and local areas license or register locksmiths. Confirm your requirements with your state or local licensing agency before you take paid work, and keep your registration details on file.

Questions

Do I need a license to rekey locks?

It depends on where you work. Check with your state or local licensing agency about the requirements for rekeying and key cutting.

How do I handle a customer who wants the key record kept private?

Keep the key record in your job file, give the customer the key numbers, and explain how the record is used. Do not share it with anyone outside the job.

What do I do if a rekeyed lock does not operate smoothly?

Check the pins and the cylinder again before you call the job finished. Tell the customer in writing what you adjusted or replaced, and what the warranty covers.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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