Last updated: August 4, 2026
Rekey locks Etobicoke are priced per job. If you want new hardware entirely, the exact price is confirmed before work starts. But here’s what most people don’t realize: previous tenants may still have keys to your current cylinders. That can be a security concern.
- Rekeying and full replacement are priced per job
- A rekey changes the internal pins so old keys stop working, same cylinder, new security
- Some condos may use restricted key systems; check building requirements
- Rekeying may suit locks that are not old or damaged
- Previous tenants’ and landlords’ keys can be a security concern
The Short Answer
If you just moved into a home in Etobicoke, Long Branch, Mississauga, or Lakeshore, consider rekeying your locks. A locksmith can remove the lock cylinder, replace the internal pins to match a new key, and reinstall the cylinder, same hardware, new security. The exact price is confirmed before work starts.
Rekeying may be an alternative to replacing the entire lock. Full lock replacement makes sense if your hardware is damaged, outdated, or you want to upgrade to a smart lock or higher security hardware.
“If previous tenants, contractors, or owners had keys, rekeying can help limit access with old keys.” Etobicoke Locksmith Team
The Full Answer
Why You Need to Rekey After Moving
When you buy or rent a home, you don’t know who has copies of the existing keys. The previous owner kept one. The realtor kept one. The contractor who fixed the kitchen door kept one. The cleaning service kept one. Every single one of those keys still opens your front door if your locks haven’t been rekeyed.
This is especially true in Lakeshore and Islington Village condos, where multiple people – property managers, service contractors, and previous residents – routinely cycle through. One Islington Village condo owner lost both their keys and discovered they couldn’t access their own unit without a registered locksmith. We rekeyed the cylinder in 45 minutes, and that was the only reason they got back inside. Without rekeying, they would have been vulnerable to any of the original key holders.
Rekeying is the fastest way to invalidate every old key in circulation.
Rekeying vs. Lock Replacement: What’s the Real Difference?
Rekeying is fast and cheap. Replacement is comprehensive but more expensive.
Rekeying: A locksmith removes your existing deadbolt or door lock, takes out the cylinder, and replaces the internal pins and springs inside. The outside hardware stays the same. Your new key works and old keys no longer work. Rekeying is priced per job.
Lock Replacement: A locksmith removes the entire lock body and installs a new lock. This may suit damaged locks or an upgrade to a smart lock. The exact price is confirmed before work starts.
| Factor | Rekeying | Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per lock | Priced per job | Priced per job |
| Time per lock | 20-30 min | 30-45 min |
| Hardware changes | No | Yes |
| Upgrade options | None | Smart locks, high-security cylinders |
| Best for | Quick security after a move | Damage, upgrade, or brand preference |
Who Should Rekey vs. Replace
Rekey your locks if:
- Your existing locks are in good working order.
- You want the fastest, cheapest way to block old keys.
- Your hardware (Schlage, Kwikset) is less than 10 years old.
- You just moved and need to be secure by this weekend.
Replace your locks if:
- Your locks are visibly damaged, rusted, or don’t latch smoothly.
- You want to upgrade to a smart lock.
- You want higher security cylinders because your home is in a higher traffic area or you have security concerns.
- Your existing locks are old.
Condos and Restricted-Key Systems in Etobicoke
If you live in a condo in Islington Village, The Queensway, or Lakeshore, you may have a restricted-key system. That means the building uses proprietary cylinders – you can’t buy a generic key blank at a hardware store. Only a registered locksmith can cut keys for your locks.
An Islington Village condo owner recently lost both their keys. Because the building’s lock system was restricted, they couldn’t just walk to a hardware store. They called a registered locksmith, who rekeyed the cylinder in 45 minutes and cut new keys on the spot. The entire cost was less than what a dealership charges for a single car key.
Before rekeying a condo lock, check with your building management. Some buildings require that rekeying be done by a pre-approved locksmith. Many also require you to register new key holders (family members, nannies, housekeepers) for security purposes.
Some condo locks use restricted key systems. Check building requirements before arranging rekeying or new keys.
What Brands of Locks Can Be Rekeyed
Many standard residential locks can be rekeyed. Some higher security locks can also be rekeyed, depending on their internal mechanisms. The exact price is confirmed before work starts.
The only locks that can’t be rekeyed are smart locks (Schlage Encode, Yale Assure, August). These are electronic and don’t have a physical cylinder to rekey. If you own one, you change security by resetting the lock’s code or removing old users from the app.
How to Avoid Getting Ripped Off During a Move
Moving day is when locksmiths see the most rush calls and the most inflated quotes. Here are the mistakes we see repeatedly:
Mistake 1: Trusting a flat phone quote. A phone quote without seeing your locks may not reflect the work required. Ask what is included and confirm the exact price before work starts.
Mistake 2: Buying a low cost deadbolt and asking a locksmith to install it. If you’re replacing locks during your move, consider door hardware that suits your security needs.
Mistake 3: Not rekeying at all. This can be a concern in rentals. A tenant may assume the landlord changed the locks. Ask whether the locks have been rekeyed and consider contacting a locksmith to assess them.
When the Answer Is Different
If You’re a Renter in Mississauga or Lakeshore
Ask your landlord whether the locks have been rekeyed before you move in. If you arrange rekeying yourself, discuss any reimbursement directly with your landlord.
If You’ve Lost Both Keys
For condo key systems, check building requirements before arranging rekeying or new keys.
If You Want a Master Key System
Some homeowners and property managers want one key to open multiple locks. This is called a master key system. For example, one master key opens your front door, garage, and shed – but you can also have individual keys that work only on specific locks.
Commercial master key systems can be discussed based on the locks and access needs at your property.
Master key systems can provide different access levels for rentals and businesses.
Related Question We Often Hear
If you’re going to have a locksmith on site anyway, it may be a good time to discuss a smart lock upgrade. Smart locks can be managed through an app and may allow you to add or remove access without giving out physical keys. Installation requirements and pricing are confirmed before work starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to rekey a lock?
Rekeying a single lock takes 20-30 minutes. If you’re rekeying multiple locks (say, your front door and garage), plan 45 minutes to an hour total. A locksmith can usually rekey 2-3 locks in a single visit before moving on to the next appointment. The time depends on lock condition – a rusty deadbolt takes longer than a well-maintained one.
Can I rekey my own locks without a locksmith?
Technically, rekeying can be done with a hardware store kit and the right tools and skill. The kit requires you to disassemble the lock, identify which pins go where, and reassemble it without losing small springs. If you are unsure, contact a locksmith. The exact price is confirmed before work starts.
Do I need to tell my landlord I’m rekeying the lock?
Yes. If you’re a tenant, check your lease. Most leases allow tenants to rekey at their own expense as long as the landlord is given a copy of the new key. Some landlords prefer that you hire a locksmith they approve. A few will rekey for you at no cost during the lease signing. Always communicate before rekeying – it protects both you and the landlord and avoids a dispute at move-out.
What’s the difference between a rekey and a new key?
A new key is a copy of your existing key, and it works with your existing lock. A rekey changes the lock’s internal pins so only a new key that you control will open it. If you lost your key, a professional locksmith can discuss replacement options. If you want to block old key holders from entering, you rekey the lock. New keys do not address the security issue of old keys still being in circulation. The exact price is confirmed before any work starts.
Sources
- Lock rekeying and replacement pricing – Etobicoke Locksmith service records
- Smart lock brands and installation – Schlage, Yale, and August manufacturer specifications and installation guidelines
- High-security lock cylinder specifications – Mul-T-Lock and Medeco technical documentation
- Residential security best practices – Physical Security Professional (PSP) industry standards