Get matched with top locksmiths in Sayville, NY

There’s no set time limit for when you should replace your locks, but there are several indicators that it’s time to swap them. If you’re moving into a new home or have a roommate moving out, it’s smart to change the locks. If you experience a break-in or other crime, you should change it then too, or if you ever lose your keys. Eventually, locks can wear out, so it’s ideal to replace them after several years of use or one of these circumstances occurs.

Expect to pay between $50 to $200 if you hire a locksmith to change your locks. That figure includes labor and the cost of basic hardware. The cost will naturally be higher if you plan to install more expensive locks, like smart locks, and if you need a lot of them.

Homeowners can save money by replacing locks themselves. A typical rekeying kit costs about $10 to $25. The only additional cost is purchasing new house keys, and those are no more than a few dollars per key. If you want to replace the locks on your own completely, the main cost is the price of the locks themselves. A standard knob-style lock starts around $25, while electronic locks and smart locks will run in the hundreds of dollars. The only additional tools you should need are a tape measure, screwdriver, and screws if they are not already provided.

Rekeying a lock is less expensive than replacing the whole unit. The cost to rekey is about $50 to $100 when you hire a pro or as little as $10 if you DIY. The cost to change a lock is $130 to $500, depending on the hardware you select.

Security systems are one of the measures that deter burglars the most. Research suggests most burglars look for signs of a security system before going in, although the presence of a security system doesn’t automatically mean they won’t enter the home. However, a security system with cameras can decrease the chance of a burglary overall.