When is lock change better than rekey?

When hardware is worn, damaged, or you want a different grade or style — e.g., upgrading to a stronger deadbolt or smart lock prep.

Will installation fit my door?

Standard preps are common, but odd doors may need adapters — the locksmith assesses on site.

Who supplies the locks?

Some pros stock common sets; others install customer-supplied hardware. Clarify when you speak with the locksmith.

I just moved — is this the right page?

Often paired with rekey; if you want new grades, finishes, or smart hardware, lock change is the better hub — say how many openings you are touching.

Does smart lock install belong here?

Overlaps when you replace a deadbolt with a smart unit — our smart lock install page covers keypad/Wi‑Fi specific expectations.

Hardware • LA County

Lock change in Los Angeles County

Rekey or a full change?

If the locks are fine and you only want the old keys to stop working, rekeying is cheaper — same hardware, new pins. Change the lock when it's worn, low-security, or you want something different like a deadbolt or a smart lock.

Ask for everything "keyed alike" and a single key can open every new lock on the house, as long as the hardware matches. Count the exterior doors before you submit so the locksmith brings enough of the right parts.

What happens next

You submit your ZIP and a short note about what happened.
LockUnlocked routes the request to participating locksmiths who cover that ZIP.
If a locksmith is available and accepts, they call to confirm timing and price before dispatch. You pay the locksmith directly for completed work.

Request a locksmith

Takes about a minute. No account and no upfront payment. If a participating locksmith is available and accepts your request, they call to confirm timing and price before dispatch.

What to include

How many doors need new hardware
Deadbolt, knob, or smart lock — and if the frame is damaged
Every door on one key, if you want that

Sometimes a lock has just had enough, or you've moved somewhere and don't love the idea of strangers holding old keys. Swapping the hardware is straightforward — the main thing to sort out first is how many doors and what kind of lock you want on them.

Request lock change

Match the new lock to the door first

Measure

Backset and door thickness decide compatibility — text photos beat guessing over the phone.

Decide

If cylinders still feel great, rekey may save money — we keep both pages honest so you pick the right SKU.

Install

Strike alignment fixes many “lock won’t latch” calls — mention if the jamb is weather-shifted.

Smart locks

For keypad and Wi‑Fi lock installs, see our smart lock installation page — many jobs overlap with general lock change routing.

Why customers use LockUnlocked

Requests go to locksmiths who cover your ZIP, not a national call center.
See a price range before dispatch when available.
You pay the locksmith directly. We do not add a fee on the job.
Cancel via link in your SMS if plans change.

Guides & Los Angeles resources

Start from your situation or county-wide service page, then open your neighborhood when you want local detail — the same request form and ZIP routing apply everywhere.

Quick definitions

Car lockout: professional entry when keys are inside the vehicle — see LA County car lockout.
Rekeying: repin the cylinder for a new key — see Rekey (LA County) and rekey vs change.

Featured LA County areas

Open the area closest to you, or submit the form above with the ZIP where you need service.

See every LA County area we cover →