Rekeying
The existing lock stays on the door. The internal configuration changes, and every old key stops working.
7:00 AM – 12:00 AMOakleigh South VIC
Rekeying is one of the most useful and least understood locksmith services. People often ask to have locks "changed" when what they actually want is for the old keys to stop working — and that does not require new locks.
Inside a cylinder sits a set of small pins or wafers of specific heights. Change those to a new combination and cut a key to match, and the lock now answers only to the new key. The hardware on the door does not change at all.
Same lock, new key
- 01
Old key
Every key cut to the previous combination.
- 02
Cylinder reconfigured
The internal pin arrangement is changed.
- 03
New key
Only keys cut to the new combination will turn it.
The hardware on the door does not change
What the work involves
- 01Removing the cylinder
- The cylinder is taken out of the existing hardware, which stays on the door.
- 02Reconfiguring the internals
- The pin or wafer arrangement is changed to a new combination.
- 03Cutting new keys
- Keys are cut to the new combination and tested in the cylinder before it goes back in.
- 04Refitting and testing
- The cylinder is reinstalled and tested in the closed door. Any previous key no longer operates it.
Common situations
- You have just moved in and do not know how many keys exist
- A tenancy has ended and keys were not all returned
- A key has been lost somewhere it could be identified with the property
- A relationship, share house or staff arrangement has changed
- You want several doors to run on one key
- A tradesperson or agent held a key during works
What you can expect
- A clear explanation of what rekeying does and does not change
- Confirmation of how many keys you need before work starts
- Existing hardware left in place where it is in good condition
- Old keys demonstrably no longer working when we finish
Local context
Rekeying is a standard first job after a settlement or a move, and moves are constant across Oakleigh, Carnegie and Clayton with their steady turnover of rentals and first homes. Where a property has multiple compatible cylinders, keying them alike at the same time usually costs less than doing them separately later.
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What is the difference between rekeying and replacing a lock?
Rekeying changes the internal configuration of the existing lock so old keys no longer work, keeping the hardware in place. Replacing removes the hardware entirely and fits new hardware. Rekeying is usually the lower-cost option when the existing lock is in good condition.
Can every lock be rekeyed?
Most standard cylinders can, provided they are in serviceable condition. Badly worn, damaged or unusual hardware may need replacing instead. We confirm on inspection.
Will my old keys definitely stop working?
Yes. Once a cylinder is rekeyed to a new combination, keys cut to the previous combination will not operate it.
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