If you have recently moved into a new home, lost your keys, or simply want to make sure old keys no longer work, lock rekeying can be a practical way to improve control over your home security. But one of the first questions Perth homeowners ask is: how long does it take to rekey a house?
For a standard residential lock, rekeying can often take around 15 to 30 minutes per lock when the existing hardware is in good condition. A complete house may take longer depending on the number of locks, the type of hardware and whether any repairs or adjustments are required.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Lock rekeying changes the internal configuration of a compatible lock so the old key will no longer operate it. Instead of replacing the entire lock, a locksmith adjusts the lock cylinder and prepares a new key.
This means your existing door hardware can often remain in place while access is changed.
Rekeying can be useful when:
- You have moved into a new Perth property
- Your house keys have been lost or stolen
- A previous tenant has moved out
- You are unsure who has copies of your keys
- You want several locks to operate with compatible keys
- You want to improve key control without replacing every lock
Perth locksmiths commonly describe rekeying as a faster alternative to replacing functioning locks, although the suitability depends on the condition and type of the existing hardware.
How Long Does It Take to Rekey One Lock?
A straightforward residential lock can often be rekeyed in approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
The locksmith generally needs to:
- Inspect the existing lock.
- Remove or access the lock cylinder.
- Change the internal pin configuration.
- Prepare or cut the new key.
- Reassemble the lock.
- Test the new key and make sure the lock operates correctly.
Some Perth locksmith services report an average of about 15 minutes for a standard lock, while other industry guides give a broader 20–30 minute range. The actual time depends on the lock and the condition of the hardware.
How Long Does It Take to Rekey a Whole House?
For a typical Perth home with several exterior locks, a whole-house rekey can often be completed during one visit.
For example, if your home has four compatible locks and each takes around 15–30 minutes, the lock work itself could take approximately one to two hours. Additional time may be needed for inspection, key cutting, testing and travelling to the property.
A larger house with more doors can naturally take longer.
The type of lock also matters. Standard residential locks are generally quicker to work on than older, damaged or more complicated locking systems. If a lock is worn, corroded or not suitable for rekeying, replacement may be more practical.
What Can Make Rekeying Take Longer?
Not every house rekey is the same. Several factors can affect the time required.
Number of locks
The more locks you want rekeyed, the longer the job will normally take. A single front door is much quicker than rekeying the front door, back door, garage, side gate and other entry points.
Lock type
Different locks have different designs. Standard residential cylinders may be relatively straightforward, while mortice locks, older hardware or unusual mechanisms can require additional work.
Condition of the lock
A stiff, damaged or worn lock may need repair or replacement rather than a simple rekey. A locksmith may need to address the underlying problem before the lock can be tested properly.
Missing working key
If you have lost your original key, the locksmith may need to gain access to or decode the lock before rekeying it. This can add time to the job.
Door alignment
Sometimes the lock itself is fine, but the door or frame is not aligned correctly. Adjustments may be needed so the newly rekeyed lock operates smoothly.
Can All House Locks Be Rekeyed to One Key?
In many cases, compatible locks can be rekeyed so that several doors operate with the same key. This can make everyday life easier because you do not have to carry a separate key for every entrance.
However, the locks need to be compatible with the chosen keying arrangement. A locksmith can inspect the existing hardware and explain what can be keyed alike.
This can be particularly useful for Perth homeowners who want simpler key management across their property.
Rekeying vs Replacing Your Locks
If your locks are still in good working condition, rekeying may allow you to change access without purchasing completely new lock hardware.
Replacement may be more appropriate if the lock is:
- Damaged or broken
- Heavily worn
- Corroded
- Difficult to operate
- Outdated for your security requirements
- Not compatible with the required rekeying system
A professional inspection can help determine whether rekeying or replacement is more suitable for your home.
Rekeying Services Across Perth
For homeowners across Perth, getting your locks rekeyed can be a relatively quick way to regain control of your property’s keys.
Sheehan Locksmiths Perth provides residential locksmith services including lock rekeying, lock repairs, lock installation, master keying and security upgrades. The service can be useful for homes throughout the Perth metropolitan area, whether you have recently moved house, misplaced keys or simply want to reset access.
Before starting the work, it is sensible to discuss the number of locks involved, the type of hardware installed and whether you want multiple locks to work with the same key.
Final Answer: How Long Does It Take?
For a standard residential lock, around 15–30 minutes per lock is a reasonable general timeframe. A whole-house rekey may take approximately one to two hours for several standard locks, but the actual time can vary according to the number of doors, lock types, condition of the hardware and any additional adjustments required.
If your locks are in good condition, rekeying can be a straightforward way to change who has access to your home without replacing every lock.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to rekey one house lock in Perth?
A standard residential lock can often take around 15–30 minutes to rekey, depending on the lock type and condition.
2. How long does it take to rekey an entire house?
A house with several standard locks may take around one to two hours, although larger or more complicated properties can take longer.
3. Can my old house keys still work after rekeying?
No. When a compatible lock is correctly rekeyed, the internal configuration is changed so the old key no longer operates the lock.
4. Is rekeying faster than replacing locks?
Usually, yes, when the existing locks are suitable and in good condition. Rekeying changes the lock’s internal configuration instead of replacing the complete hardware.
5. Should I rekey my locks after moving into a Perth home?
It can be a practical security step because you may not know how many copies of the previous keys exist or who may still have access to them. A locksmith can inspect the locks and explain your options.
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