5 Signs You Need to Rekey Your Home Locks in San Bernardino (2025 Guide)

Your home's security depends on who has access to your locks. If you've recently moved into a new house in San Bernardino, Rialto, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, you might be wondering: should I rekey my locks?
As professional residential locksmiths serving San Bernardino County for over a decade, we've helped thousands of homeowners secure their properties through lock rekeying. Here's everything you need to know about when and why you should rekey your home locks.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Lock rekeying is the process of changing the internal pins and springs inside your existing lock cylinder so that old keys no longer work. After rekeying, you receive new keys that operate the lock, while the old keys become useless.
The beauty of rekeying is that you keep your existing locks, door hardware, and finish. This makes it much more affordable than replacing all your locks entirely. A professional locksmith can rekey most residential locks in just a few minutes per lock.
5 Clear Signs You Need to Rekey Your Locks
Here are the most common situations where rekeying your home locks is essential for security:
1. You Just Bought a New Home
This is the number one reason homeowners in San Bernardino rekey their locks—and for good reason. When you purchase a home, you have no idea how many copies of the keys exist. The previous owners may have given keys to:
Family members and friends
Contractors and service workers
Dog walkers or house sitters
Real estate agents
Former tenants (if it was a rental property)
Even if the previous owners seem trustworthy, you can't account for everyone who might have had access to a key. Rekeying your locks immediately after moving in ensures that you—and only you—control who enters your home.
Most professional locksmiths in San Bernardino recommend rekeying all exterior doors within the first week of moving into a new house. This includes front doors, back doors, side doors, and garage entry doors.
2. You've Lost Your Keys or Had Them Stolen
Lost keys represent a serious security risk. If someone finds your keys and they're attached to anything identifying your address—like a gym membership card, ID tag, or mail—they could potentially access your home.
The same applies to stolen keys. Whether taken during a burglary, pickpocketed, or stolen from your car, missing keys mean unknown people could have access to your property.
Rekeying your locks immediately after losing keys gives you peace of mind. It's much faster than replacing all your locks and typically costs between $80-$150 for a standard home in the Inland Empire.
3. You've Recently Ended a Relationship
Going through a breakup or divorce is difficult enough without worrying about home security. If your former partner has keys to your home, rekeying your locks protects your privacy and safety.
This is especially important if the relationship ended on bad terms or if there are any concerns about harassment or domestic violence. Rekeying prevents your ex from entering your home uninvited and gives you back control of your personal space.
Many homeowners in Rialto, Fontana, and Redlands choose to rekey locks after relationship changes. It's a straightforward process that provides immediate security improvements.
4. You've Had Contractors or Service Workers in Your Home
Did you give a house key to contractors during a renovation? Have cleaning services, landscapers, or home healthcare workers been given access? While most service professionals are trustworthy, keys can be easily copied without your knowledge.
If you've had multiple people with temporary access to your home, rekeying ensures that only authorized individuals retain entry. This is particularly important after major renovations or when changing service providers.
Some homeowners in San Bernardino County choose to install keypad locks or smart locks for service workers, eliminating the need to hand out physical keys. However, if you prefer traditional locks, rekeying after service work is complete is the smart choice.
5. Your Locks Are Old, Worn, or Easy to Pick
Walk to your front door right now and look at your locks. Are they old and worn? Does your key stick or require jiggling to work? Can you see visible wear on the lock cylinder?
Worn locks are easier to pick and provide less security than newer, well-maintained locks. If your locks show signs of age or damage, rekeying with new pins and springs can improve security while keeping your existing hardware.
However, if your locks are severely damaged or you have builder-grade locks (the cheap locks many new homes come with), you might want to consider upgrading to high-security locks instead of just rekeying.
How Much Does Lock Rekeying Cost in San Bernardino?
Lock rekeying is one of the most affordable locksmith services available. In San Bernardino County, typical costs include:
Standard lock rekey: $20-$30 per lock
Service call fee: $50-$75 (usually covers the first lock)
Average home (4-5 locks): $120-$180 total
Compare this to replacing locks entirely, which can cost $150-$300 per lock including hardware and installation. Rekeying saves you money while providing the same security benefit—new keys that work only for you.
At The LockBusters, we provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees. We can rekey most standard residential locks, including Kwikset, Schlage, Yale, and Weiser brands.
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks: Which Is Right for You?
While rekeying works for most situations, sometimes replacing your locks entirely is the better choice:
Choose rekeying when your locks are in good condition, you like your current hardware, and you just need to change who has access.
Choose lock replacement when your locks are damaged, you want to upgrade to high-security locks, you're changing lock styles, or you're moving from keyed entry to smart locks.
A professional locksmith in San Bernardino can assess your current locks and recommend the best solution for your security needs and budget.
What About Master Key Systems?
If you have multiple rental properties in the Inland Empire or a large home with many family members, a master key system might be perfect for you. This system allows:
Different keys for each door or unit
One master key that opens all locks
Convenience for property managers and homeowners
Easy access control
We install and maintain master key systems throughout San Bernardino County for property managers, landlords, and homeowners with multiple properties.
DIY Rekeying vs. Professional Locksmith Services
You might see DIY rekeying kits at hardware stores and wonder if you can rekey locks yourself. While technically possible, here's why professional rekeying is worth it:
Professional locksmiths work quickly. What might take you an hour per lock takes us just a few minutes.
We have specialized tools and experience with all lock types and brands.
We can identify worn or damaged components that need replacement.
We ensure all locks are rekeyed to the same key for convenience.
We properly dispose of old pins so previous keys definitely won't work.
Most importantly, if something goes wrong during DIY rekeying, you could damage your locks and need full replacement—which costs much more than professional rekeying.
How to Prepare for Lock Rekeying Service
When you schedule lock rekeying with The LockBusters in San Bernardino, here's how to prepare:
Make a list of all locks you want rekeyed. Don't forget side doors, garage entries, and any outbuildings.
Decide if you want all locks keyed alike (one key opens all locks) or keyed differently for different access levels.
Clear access to all doors so the locksmith can work efficiently.
Decide how many new keys you'll need. Most services include 3-5 new keys per lock at no extra charge.
Consider upgrading any damaged or builder-grade locks while the locksmith is there.
Protect Your San Bernardino Home Today
Don't wait until there's a security issue to rekey your locks. If any of the five situations above apply to you, it's time to call a professional locksmith.
The LockBusters provides fast, affordable lock rekeying throughout San Bernardino, Rialto, Fontana, Redlands, Rancho Cucamonga, Highland, Colton, Loma Linda, and Grand Terrace. We're licensed, insured, and committed to keeping Inland Empire homes secure.
Schedule Your Lock Rekeying Service
Ready to secure your home? Call The LockBusters at (909) 935-8844 today. We offer:
Same-day service throughout San Bernardino County
Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
Professional, licensed technicians
Fast, efficient service
All locks keyed to match for your convenience
Don't let old keys compromise your family's safety. Contact us today for a free quote on lock rekeying services in the Inland Empire.