How Much Does a Locksmith Cost?

Understanding Locksmith Prices, Rekeying, & Essential Factors

Curious about how to protect your home with locksmith services? Find out the costs involved in securing your doors and learn about potential hidden fees.

In this Price Guide we will talk about:

1. What Services Do Locksmiths Provide?
2. How Much Does a Locksmith Charge?
3. Locksmith Costs for New Installations
4. Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks
5. Unexpected Locksmith Service Charges
6. Find Locksmiths on HomeStars
7. Common Questions

What Services Do Locksmiths Provide?

Common services provided by locksmiths include lock installation, repair, and emergency unlocking.

They also perform key cutting, create duplicate keys, and offer rekeying services to ensure your existing locks are secure without the need for a complete replacement.

HomeStars Tip: Always ask about additional costs for materials or emergency services before hiring a locksmith to avoid unexpected expenses.

How Much Does a Locksmith Charge?

The cost of hiring a locksmith depends on several factors that influence their service fees. These factors include the type of service required, the urgency of the request, and the location of the job.

Typically, locksmith costs can vary widely, from $70 to $200 for standard jobs

Locksmith services can have varied pricing structures:

Service	Cost Range
Service Call Fee	$35 to $150
Labour Costs	$50 to $100 per hour
After-Hours Surcharge	$50 to $150
Parts and Materials	Varies based on lock or key

Note: Costs can increase if specialized equipment or custom solutions are necessary.

If you’re looking to replace an old door or install a new one with a lock, visit our price guide for all door and window costs.

Locksmith Cost for New Installations: What Can You Expect?

The cost to install new locks varies depending on the type of lock, the installation complexity, and your location. New installations often include labour and materials, and being prepared can help you make informed decisions.

Lock Type	Cost
Basic Deadbolt	$80 – $250
High-Security Lock	$150 – $500+
Smart Lock	$150 – $350+
Keyless Entry System	$200 – $800+

Note: The price can fluctuate based on the chosen lock brand and additional security features. It's advisable to compare options to find the best solution for your needs.

HomeStars Tip: Always request a detailed quotation that outlines both the installation and material costs. This ensures you have a clear understanding of the total expenses involved.

Get your lock installation or repair done

What’s the Difference Between Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks?

Rekeying involves altering the existing lock mechanism, making old keys obsolete, while lock replacement means swapping the entire lock with a new one.

Rekeying is ideal in situations like moving into a new home or losing a key. On average, locksmith rekey costs range from $25 to $160 per lock, depending on the lock type and your location.

Replacing locks is recommended when you want a completely new lock system, especially if locks are damaged or outdated. This option typically offers enhanced security features and design choices.

The cost of replacing locks usually falls between $80 and $300+, factoring in the brand and complexity of the installation.

Unexpected Locksmith Service Charges to Watch Out For

Hiring locksmith services can sometimes come with unexpected costs. It's important to be aware of potential hidden fees that might appear on your bill, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of what you're paying for.

• Service Call/Trip Fee: This charge covers the professional's transport to your location. It might be included in the overall cost or listed separately.

• After-Hours/Emergency Fees: Expect higher fees for services rendered outside normal business hours, often adding $50 – $150 to the base cost.

• Labour Charges: These fees are typically hourly, ranging from $50 – $100 for standard services to $150 – $300 for urgent, after-hours calls.

• Material and Part Costs: While labour might be included in the initial quote, any additional parts required will add to the total cost.

• Regional Pricing Variations: Prices for identical services can differ significantly between locations. For example, regions with higher living costs, like Toronto or Vancouver, often have higher locksmith fees.

Find Locksmiths on HomeStars

Don't let locksmith costs become a guessing game! With HomeStars, you can seamlessly connect with local locksmiths, ensuring you receive transparent quotes. Post your project today to find the right locksmith near you. Discover the difference a professional locksmith can make, take action and secure your home with HomeStars!

Secure your home with locksmith help

FAQ: Common Questions Readers Ask About Locksmith Services

How can the time of day affect the cost of calling out a locksmith?

The time of day affects locksmith costs. Calls made after business hours, on weekends, or during holidays usually cost more due to emergency or after-hours rates. A service during regular hours may cost less than half the price of the same service at night or on a holiday, reflecting the added urgency and inconvenience.

Are there significant differences in locksmith rekey costs between residential and commercial properties?

Yes, rekey costs are usually higher for commercial properties due to more complex lock systems, multiple access points, and higher security needs. This often requires extra labour and specialized materials. Residential rekeying is typically simpler and more affordable.

What questions should I ask a locksmith to get an accurate estimate of their costs?

To get an accurate estimate from a locksmith, consider asking the following questions:

1. What is your service call fee? Understand the base fee just for their visit.
2. Are there additional charges for off-hours services? Inquire about extra costs for emergency or outside regular hours.
3. Do you have a pricing list for common services? Some locksmiths provide standardized pricing for typical services.
4. Is there a difference in cost between different lock brands or types? Clarify if premium brands entail higher costs.
5. What payment methods do you accept? Ensure you have the means to pay on completion.
6. Do you provide a written estimate? Obtain a documented estimate to prevent surprises.
7. Are there warranties or guarantees on your work? This ensures quality and follow-up services if needed.

These questions will help ensure transparency in costs and prevent unforeseen expenses.