To be honest, changing locks isn’t the most thrilling home renovation project. But it becomes a top priority when you need it, whether it’s after a break-in, when you’re moving to a new house, or just when you want to upgrade for peace of mind.
How much will this actually cost me?” is the first question that always comes up.
This article will explain how much a lock replacement actually costs, the various elements that affect cost, and how to keep your house (or place of business) safe and secure without going over budget.
Why Replace a Lock in the First Place?
Before diving into the dollars and cents, it’s worth quickly addressing why lock replacement is sometimes necessary:
- You’ve just moved in: Whether it’s a house or apartment, you never know who still has a copy of the old keys.
- Break-ins or lost keys: Better safe than sorry—especially after a security scare.
- Old or worn-out locks: Mechanical failures happen. A sticky or hard-to-turn lock is a red flag.
- Smart lock upgrades: Moving into the 21st century with digital locks? Replacement is part of the process.
No matter your reason, the next question is: what’s this going to cost me?
How Much Does Lock Replacement Cost in 2025?
The short answer? Anywhere from £50 to £500+—depending on a variety of factors.
Here’s a more detailed look at what you can expect:
| Type of Lock | Average Cost (Parts + Labor) |
| Basic doorknob lock | £50 – £125 |
| Deadbolt (standard) | £75 – £150 |
| Smart lock (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth) | £150 – £350 |
| High-security lock | £200 – £500+ |
| Sliding door lock | £80 – £175 |
| Commercial-grade locks | £200 – £600+ |
Factors That Affect Lock Replacement Cost
Let’s break it down. Here are the key variables that affect your final bill:
1. Lock Type
It should go without saying that more sophisticated locks are more expensive. A simple doorknob lock is inexpensive. A smart lock that uses biometrics? That’s a different story.
2. Labor Expenses
Locksmiths usually bill between £50 and £100 per hour, with a £75–£125 minimum service charge. It takes more time and money if they have to drill out outdated hardware or perform custom fitting.
You might have to pay 1.5–2 times the standard fee if it’s an emergency call (locked out, middle of the night).
3. The quantity of locks being changed
It is evident that replacing one lock is less expensive than replacing three or four. Don’t forget to inquire about package pricing if you’re remodeling the entire house.
4. Replacing versus Rekeying
Many homeowners overpay in this area. You may just need to rekey your lock (alter the pins so old keys don’t work) if it’s in good condition. This is far less expensive than a complete replacement and typically costs £15 to £40 per lock.
5. Lock Quality and Brand
For good reason, brands like Yale, August, Medeco, and Schlage are more expensive: they have superior materials, security, and longevity. Cheaper off-brands could save you money up front, but they will cost you more in the long run in terms of replacements and irritation.
Lock Replacement Cost: Real-World Examples
Here are some everyday scenarios to give you context:
Scenario 1: New Homeowner
You’ve just bought a home with 3 external doors and want them all replaced with standard deadbolts.
- Hardware cost: £40 per lock x 3 = £120
- Labor cost: 2 hours @ £75/hr = £150
- Total: ~£270
Scenario 2: Lost Keys, One Lock
You lost your keys and want a quick, same-day replacement for your front door.
- New lock (mid-range): £75
- Emergency labor fee: £125
- Total: ~£200
Scenario 3: Smart Lock Upgrade
You want to install a fingerprint smart lock on your front door.
- Smart lock hardware: £250
- Installation labor: £100
- Total: ~£350
Should You DIY Lock Replacement?
Doing it yourself can save money if you’re handy and working with basic locks. For £30 to £60, you can get good locksets from Home Depot or Amazon, and you can install them using simple tools.
The catch is that if you have a single misaligned strike plate or crooked deadbolt, you will still need to call a locksmith. And that can cost you twice as much.
Money-Saving Tips for Replacing Locks
Everyone loves a good deal—especially when safety’s involved. Here’s how to keep costs reasonable:
Rekey Instead of Replace
We mentioned it earlier, but it’s worth repeating: rekeying can cut your cost in half. Ask your locksmith if it’s an option.
Bundle Your Lock Jobs
Replacing multiple locks? Do them all at once. Most locksmiths will give a discount for volume.
Compare Quotes
Call at least 2–3 locksmiths in your area. Ask for:
- Hourly rates
- Emergency surcharges
- Travel fees
- Warranty info
Buy the Lock Yourself
Some locksmiths mark up hardware by 30%–50%. You can often find the same model cheaper online or at a hardware store.
Conclusion:
Although it may not be a glamorous option, replacing your locks is one of the most straightforward and intelligent ways to keep your house or place of business safe. Even though prices differ, you may maintain your budget without compromising your piece of mind if you have the correct knowledge and do a little price shopping.
FAQs:
Is it less expensive to replace a lock or rekey it?
Rekeying is nearly always less expensive. Only if the lock is broken, out-of-date, or incompatible with your new keys does it need to be replaced.
How much time does it take to replace a lock?
Standard replacements typically take 30 to 60 minutes. Complex hardware or smart locks may require more time.
Is it possible for a landlord to charge for new locks?
Your lease and local legislation will determine this. If a tenant requests a lock change or loses their keys, they frequently pay for it.
