If you need help with your locks or keys, you may hear terms such as key cutting and lock rekeying. Although both services involve keys, they solve very different problems.
In simple terms, key cutting creates a new key, while rekeying changes an existing lock so that it works with a different key. Understanding this difference can help Perth homeowners, tenants, landlords and businesses choose the right locksmith service for their situation.
At Sheehan Locksmiths Perth, we help customers with key-related problems, lock repairs, rekeying, lock installation and other locksmith services across Perth and surrounding suburbs.
What Is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is the process of making a new key that matches an existing lock.
A locksmith can use an original working key as a pattern or, depending on the lock and circumstances, determine the correct key profile and cut a replacement. The finished key is designed to operate the same lock as the original.
For example, you may need key cutting if:
- You want a spare house key.
- A family member needs their own key.
- You need additional keys for employees.
- Your existing key has been lost and a replacement can be produced.
- You want a spare key before going on holiday.
- You need duplicate keys for a rental property.
Key cutting does not normally change the lock itself. If the original key still operates the lock, a correctly cut duplicate should operate it as well.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Lock rekeying is different. Instead of simply making another key for the existing lock, rekeying changes the lock’s internal configuration so it works with a new key.
The existing lock hardware can often remain in place. The locksmith adjusts the lock cylinder so that the old key is no longer intended to operate it and a new key becomes the working key.
This can be particularly useful when you are concerned about who may still have a copy of an old key.
For example, rekeying may be worth considering when:
- You have recently moved into a Perth property.
- A house key has been lost.
- A previous tenant still has a key.
- An employee has left a business.
- You are unsure how many copies of your keys exist.
- You want several locks to work with a new key.
- You want to improve control over who has access to a property.
The key point is simple: key cutting gives you another key, while rekeying changes which key operates the lock.
Key Cutting vs Rekeying: What Is the Difference?
The easiest way to compare the two services is to look at what you are trying to achieve.
| Key Cutting | Lock Rekeying |
| Creates a new key | Changes the lock’s internal configuration |
| Usually keeps the lock unchanged | Existing lock hardware may remain |
| Useful for spare or duplicate keys | Useful when old keys should no longer work |
| A new key operates the existing lock | A new key is configured to operate the rekeyed lock |
| Focuses on the key | Focuses on the lock and key combination |
So, if you simply need another working key, key cutting may be appropriate.
If your concern is that someone else may still have a working key, rekeying may be the more relevant service.
When Should You Choose Key Cutting in Perth?
Key cutting is generally suitable when your existing lock is working properly and you simply need additional keys.
For example, imagine a family living in a house in South Perth. The parents have keys, but their teenager needs one too. There may be no reason to change the locks. Having another correctly cut key may solve the problem.
The same applies to businesses across Perth. A shop, office or commercial property may need additional keys for authorised staff.
Key cutting can also be useful as a preventative step. If you have only one working key, having a spare can save you from being completely stuck if that key is lost or damaged.
When Should You Consider Rekeying?
Rekeying becomes more relevant when the issue is key security or access control rather than simply needing another copy.
Suppose you have purchased a property in Joondalup, Canning Vale, Morley or Victoria Park. You may not know exactly who previously had copies of the keys.
Replacing every lock is one possible solution, but if the existing locks are suitable and in good condition, rekeying may provide another option.
Similarly, a business in Perth CBD, West Perth, East Perth, Osborne Park or Malaga may want to change access after an employee leaves. Rekeying selected locks can help the business regain control over which keys operate those locks.
The appropriate solution depends on the lock type, condition and access requirements.
Does Rekeying Mean You Need New Locks?
Not necessarily.
One of the main advantages of rekeying is that the existing lock hardware may be retained when it is compatible and in good condition.
However, rekeying is not a replacement for repairing or replacing damaged hardware.
If a lock is:
- badly worn,
- physically damaged,
- difficult to operate,
- unsuitable for the door,
- outdated for your security requirements, or
- experiencing mechanical problems,
a locksmith may recommend repair or replacement instead.
A professional inspection can help determine whether the existing lock is suitable for rekeying.
Can You Get a New Key Without Rekeying?
Yes.
If you simply need an additional key and the existing lock is working correctly, you may only need key cutting.
For example, if your house has one working key and you want three additional copies for your family, rekeying may not be necessary.
However, if the reason you need a new key is because an old key has been lost and you are concerned someone could use it, simply cutting another key does not address that concern. In that situation, discussing lock rekeying with a qualified locksmith may be more appropriate.
What If You Lost Your House Key?
Losing a key does not automatically mean that every lock in your home needs to be replaced.
The right approach depends on the circumstances.
If the lost key was clearly identifiable with your address, or you believe someone who should not have access may possess it, you may want to consider rekeying the affected locks.
If you simply misplaced a spare key somewhere around the house and are confident that nobody else can identify the property it belongs to, your situation may be different.
A locksmith can assess the lock and discuss the available options.
Key Cutting and Rekeying for Perth Homes and Businesses
Perth has a wide range of residential and commercial properties, from apartments and townhouses to family homes, offices, retail premises and larger commercial sites.
Different properties can have different access requirements.
Sheehan Locksmiths Perth provides locksmith and security solutions for customers across Perth, including areas such as:
- Perth CBD
- West Perth
- East Perth
- South Perth
- Victoria Park
- Subiaco
- Mount Lawley
- Leederville
- Scarborough
- Bayswater
- Morley
- Balcatta
- Nollamara
- Cannington
- Canning Vale
- Willetton
- Gosnells
- Joondalup
- Wanneroo
- Ellenbrook
- Midland
- Malaga
- Armadale
- and surrounding Perth suburbs.
Whether you need a spare key, have lost your keys or want to change who can access a property, the first step is understanding whether key cutting, rekeying, repair or replacement is actually required.
Why Professional Locksmith Advice Matters
Locks are security products, so choosing the right service is about more than simply making a key.
In Western Australia, certain security activities are regulated under the Security and Related Activities (Control) Act 1996 and associated regulations. WA Police identifies security installer licence classes covering particular lock installation, maintenance and repair activities.
For customers, this highlights the importance of using appropriately qualified and licensed professionals where licensing requirements apply.
A locksmith should also consider the type of lock, its condition, the door, the existing key system and the customer’s actual access requirements before recommending a solution.
Key Cutting or Rekeying: Which One Do You Need?
The answer depends on the problem.
Choose key cutting when:
- You need an extra copy of an existing key.
- Your lock is working correctly.
- You want spare keys for family or staff.
- You want to keep the existing key system.
Consider rekeying when:
- You have moved into a property.
- Keys have been lost or may have been copied.
- A previous tenant may still have access.
- An employee has left with a business key.
- You want old keys to stop operating the lock.
- You want better control over who can access your property.
If the lock itself is damaged or unreliable, lock repair or replacement may be more suitable than either key cutting or rekeying.
Final Thoughts
The difference between key cutting and rekeying is straightforward once you know what each service does.
Key cutting creates another key for an existing lock. Rekeying changes the lock so that a different key operates it.
If you only need a spare key, key cutting may be all you need. If you are concerned about old keys still providing access, rekeying may be worth discussing with a professional locksmith.
For homeowners and businesses throughout Perth, Sheehan Locksmiths Perth can help assess your lock and key requirements and explain the practical options available for your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is key cutting the same as rekeying?
No. Key cutting creates a new key for an existing lock, while rekeying changes the internal configuration of a lock so it works with a different key. - Should I rekey my locks after moving house in Perth?
It can be worth considering if you do not know who may still have copies of the previous keys. A locksmith can inspect the existing locks and explain whether rekeying is suitable. - Can a locksmith cut a key without the original key?
Depending on the lock type and circumstances, a locksmith may be able to create a replacement key without the original. The process can vary depending on the lock. - Is rekeying better than replacing a lock?
Neither option is automatically suitable for every situation. Rekeying can be useful when the existing lock is in good condition but you want a different key to operate it. Replacement may be more appropriate when the hardware is damaged, worn or unsuitable. - Can Sheehan Locksmiths Perth help with key cutting and rekeying?
Sheehan Locksmiths Perth provides locksmith services across Perth and surrounding areas. If you are unsure whether you need key cutting, rekeying, lock repair or replacement, a professional assessment can help identify the appropriate service.
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