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How Many Keys Come With Rekeying Service
Table of Contents
- What Rekeying a Lock Means
- How Many Keys Come With a New Lock
- How Many Keys You Get With a Rekeying Service
- Extra Keys for Rekeyed Locks: What's Included and What Costs Extra
- Keyed Alike Locks and Distributing Keys Across Multiple Locks
- How Long Does It Take to Rekey a Lock
- Rekeying Versus Replacing a Lock
- What You Should Know Before Scheduling Your Rekey Service
- Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: October 13, 2026
What Rekeying a Lock Means
Rekeying a lock is the process of changing which key opens a specific door lock without replacing the entire lock itself.
Think of it like this: the lock stays in place on your door. Only the internal mechanism changes.
Rekeying is common when you move into a new home. You don't know who has copies of the old keys. A professional locksmith can rekey your locks so only your keys work.
How Many Keys Come With a New Lock
When you buy a brand new residential lock from a hardware store, the keys come with rekeying services typically number two as a baseline.
These keys are pre-cut at the factory to match the lock's pin configuration. You get them immediately when you purchase the lock.
The number of keys included depends on the lock manufacturer and the quality level. Budget locks often include just two.
How Many Keys You Get With a Rekeying Service
There is no industry-wide standard, but there is a dominant pattern. Most locksmiths follow a pattern where keys come with rekeying at two per lock as the baseline, and many bundle a small cushion of extra copies when multiple locks are serviced in one visit. In practice, a standard residential rekeying appointment lands somewhere between two and four keys total, and larger jobs often scale up from there.
The number you actually walk away with depends on four things:
- Provider policy. Some shops advertise "two keys included" as a flat rule. Others include one key per lock and charge for every additional copy. A few bundle a set number, say, four keys, regardless of how many locks are rekeyed.
- Number of locks rekeyed. A single deadbolt usually yields two keys. A five-lock job keyed alike might yield four to six, because the locksmith only needs to cut one key profile that fits every lock.
- Whether the locks are keyed alike or keyed different. Keyed-alike setups need fewer total keys because one key operates every lock. Keyed-different setups require a separate key for each lock group, which pushes the total up.
Keys per lock vs. keys per service, the distinction that trips people up
These are two different numbers, and mixing them up is the most common source of billing surprise.
| Scenario | Locks rekeyed | Keys included | What that means |
|---|---|---|---|
| One deadbolt, keyed different | 1 | 2 | Two copies of the same new key |
| Three locks, keyed alike | 3 | 3-4 | Every key opens all three locks |
| Three locks, keyed different | 3 | 3-6 | One key group per lock; more total keys |
| Five locks, keyed alike | 5 | 4-6 | Still one key profile, just more copies |
Notice that rekeying five locks does not automatically mean five keys. It means five locks now accept a new key, and the number of physical keys you receive is a separate decision.
How to confirm the count before you book
Ask these questions when you call:
- How many keys are included with the base rekeying service?
- Is that per lock or per service call?
- What is the price for each additional key cut during the same visit?
- Can you cut extra keys on-site, or do I need to come to the shop later?
- If I rekey multiple locks keyed alike, does the included key count change?
Getting those five answers in writing, text or email is fine, eliminates almost every dispute about key counts after the job is done.
Extra Keys for Rekeyed Locks: What's Included and What Costs Extra
Here's what you need to know about extra keys:
What's typically included:
- The keys that come with your rekeying service (usually 2-4 total)
- These are pre-cut to match your new lock configuration
- You get them when the job is finished
What usually costs extra:
- Additional key copies beyond what's included
- Rush services or same-day key cutting
- Keys for multiple locks that use different key configurations
If you need more keys after the service is complete, you can have them made at any locksmith or hardware store. You'll need one of your original keys to use as a template.
Some locksmiths offer package deals. For example, if you're rekeying five locks, they might include eight keys total instead of just five. Ask about this when you get your quote.
Keyed Alike Locks and Distributing Keys Across Multiple Locks
Keyed alike means multiple locks all open with the same key.
When you rekey multiple locks to be keyed alike, the locksmith changes the pin configuration in each lock so they all match.
Here's how key distribution works:
- You have five locks rekeyed to be keyed alike
- The locksmith provides (for example) six keys
- All six keys open all five locks
- You can distribute copies to family members, roommates, or trusted people
This is far more convenient than carrying five different keys. Many homeowners choose keyed alike locks for their main entry points.
The cost is usually the same whether you rekey locks to different configurations or keyed alike. The labor is similar.
How Long Does It Take to Rekey a Lock
Rekeying a single lock typically takes 15 to 30 minutes if the lock is in good condition and the locksmith has the right tools.
The process involves:
- Removing the lock from the door (or working on it in place)
- Taking out the lock cylinder
- Removing the old pins
- Installing new pins in the correct order
- Testing the lock with new keys
- Reinstalling the lock if it was removed
If you're rekeying multiple locks, add 15-30 minutes per lock. A house with five locks might take 90 minutes to two hours total.
The timeline also depends on:
- Lock condition (worn locks take longer)
- Lock type (some are easier to work with)
- Access to the lock (locks in tight spaces take longer)
- Whether the locksmith needs to cut keys on-site
Professional locksmiths work efficiently. We communicate with you during the job so you know what to expect.
Rekeying Versus Replacing a Lock
Both rekeying and replacement solve the problem of old keys floating around. But they're different services with different costs and outcomes.
Rekeying:
- Changes only the internal pins
- The lock body stays in place
- Faster and cheaper
- Works best if the lock is in good condition
Replacing:
- Removes the entire old lock
- Installs a brand new lock
- More expensive
- Required if the lock is broken, damaged, or worn out
Choose rekeying if your locks work fine but you want new keys. Choose replacement if the locks are damaged, won't turn smoothly, or are outdated.
Many homeowners rekey most of their locks but replace one or two that are broken. This balances cost and security.
What You Should Know Before Scheduling Your Rekey Service
Most rekeying articles tell you to "ask about pricing." That is not specific enough to protect you. Use the checklist below to compare providers on the four things that actually change your final bill: included key count, extra-key price, lock compatibility, and service-call charges.
Provider comparison checklist
Bring these questions to every quote you collect. Write the answers side by side so you can compare apples to apples.
1. Included key count
- How many keys come with the base service?
- Is that per lock or per service call?
- Does the count change if I rekey multiple locks keyed alike?
2. Extra-key pricing
- What is the per-key price for copies cut during the same appointment?
- Is there a discount for ordering several copies at once?
- Can keys be cut on-site, or do I have to visit the shop afterward?
3. Lock compatibility
- Can you rekey my specific lock brands and models? (Bring photos or the lock model number.)
- Are any of my locks non-rekeyable, smart locks, certain high-security cylinders, or damaged hardware?
- If a lock cannot be rekeyed, what is the replacement cost?
4. Service-call and labor charges
- Is there a flat service-call fee, or is it bundled into the per-lock price?
- Does the price change for after-hours, weekend, or emergency calls?
- Are there trip charges if I am outside the standard service area?
Prepare these details before the call
Having this information ready shortens the quote process and reduces the chance of a surprise fee:
- Lock inventory. Count every lock you want rekeyed and note the type, deadbolt, knob, lever, or smart lock.
- Keying preference. Decide whether you want all locks keyed alike (one key opens everything) or keyed different (separate keys per entry).
- Key count target. Estimate how many working copies your household needs, one per adult, plus spares for a trusted neighbor, pet sitter, or emergency stash.
- Access notes. Mention any locks that are hard to reach, painted over, or mounted on storm doors, since those can add labor time.
Verify the provider
- Confirm the business is licensed and insured in your state. Many states regulate locksmiths, and licensing requirements vary.
- Ask how long the company has been operating and whether it handles residential rekeying as a core service or as an add-on.
- Confirm whether the technician who arrives is an employee or a subcontractor, since that affects accountability.
- Check that the quote you receive in writing matches the price you are charged on arrival.
Anytime Unlock and George's Key Shop has been serving the community since 1971. We explain the included key count upfront, and answer every question on this checklist before we start work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many keys come with a rekeying service?
Most rekeying services include two to three keys per lock as standard. The exact number depends on what your locksmith includes in their service package and how many locks you're having rekeyed. If you need additional keys beyond what's included, you can request them when scheduling or during the service, your locksmith can cut extra copies while they're there. Always confirm the key count with your service provider before work begins to avoid surprises.
Can I get extra keys when rekeying a lock?
Yes. Most locksmiths can cut additional keys while performing your rekey service, which is more efficient than scheduling a separate appointment later. The cost of extra keys varies by provider and key type. Asking for extras during the initial service call is typically faster and less expensive than requesting duplicates afterward, since the locksmith already has the lock cylinder and cutting equipment on site.
Can multiple locks use the same key after rekeying?
Yes, this is called keying locks alike. When you rekey multiple locks to use the same key, the locksmith adjusts the pin-and-tumbler mechanism in each lock so one key opens all of them. This is especially useful when you move into a new home and want all exterior doors to use a single key. Confirm this option with your locksmith before they begin work, as it affects how many different keys you'll receive.
How long does it take a locksmith to rekey a lock?
Rekeying a single lock typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the lock's condition and complexity. If you're having multiple locks rekeyed, the time increases proportionally, rekeying three or four locks might take 45 minutes to an hour. Factors like lock accessibility, whether the lock is in working condition, and the locksmith's experience can affect the timeline. A professional locksmith should be able to give you an accurate estimate when you call for a quote.
When you're ready to rekey your locks, having clear answers to these questions makes the process smooth and stress-free. You'll know exactly what you're getting and what it costs. Get a free quote from Anytime Unlock and George's Key Shop today and find out how we can help secure your home with professional rekeying services.
