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Locksmith: the basics
Lockouts, rekeying, deadbolts, smart locks, broken keys, safes.
The full guide for this trade is being written. Until then, here is what we know for sure: the problems that belong here, who handles them, and how to check a contractor.
On this page4 sections: urgent, permits…
What people call about
- Locked out
- Rekey after moving in
- Key broke off in the lock
- Install a deadbolt
How soon to call
Act today
Locked out of the house
Ask for: lockout service
Ask for the total price before they come, and expect to show ID that matches the address.
Locked out of my car
Ask for: automotive lockout
If a child or pet is locked inside the car, call 911 first. Otherwise ask for the total price before the locksmith comes, and expect to show ID and proof the car is yours.
Call in the next day or two
Door lock is broken
Ask for: lock repair or replacement
Key broke off in the lock
Ask for: key extraction
Schedule it
Cluster mailbox lock broken
Ask for: mailbox lock change
Cluster boxes are often owned by the post office or the HOA; ask them before hiring anyone.
Install a deadbolt
Ask for: lock installation
Install a smart lock
Ask for: smart lock installation
Rekey the locks after moving in
Ask for: rekeying
Safe won't open
Ask for: safe opening
Secure the sliding door
Ask for: patio door lock
General guidance, not a diagnosis. If anyone is in danger, call 911 first.
Permits and licensing
- This work rarely needs a permit, but a town can still require one for parts of it.
- Licensing depends on the state: a trade license in some, a home-improvement registration in others, none in the rest. The finder shows what the record says where one exists.
Know what you're looking at
Rekeying changes the pins inside a cylinder so old keys stop working, without buying a new lock. Ask whether rekeying or replacing is being quoted.
Copies are cut from a blank. High-security and chip keys need special blanks or programming, so ask what a copy involves before you pay.
How a pin tumbler lock works: the right key lifts every pin to the same line so the cylinder turns. This is why a locksmith can rekey a lock by changing the pins.
PNG: User:Wapcaplet ; SVG: User:Pbroks13 ; this combined image: User:Crisco 1492 . · CC BY-SA 3.0
Smart locks add keypads, apps or fingerprint readers. Ask about battery life, a backup key and how the lock is secured to the door.
General information, not legal, tax, engineering or insurance advice. Rules and prices vary by place, so get three local quotes. Problem list updated 2026-10-04.