Mortise Locks
Upgrade or replace mortise locks on metal and wooden doors. Ideal for older properties and commercial doors needing strong, long-lasting hardware.
Change Lock & Rekey Service Santa Monica CA (562)270-0450
Lock Change Santa Monica is your local mobile locksmith service dedicated to keeping homes and businesses in Santa Monica California secure, convenient, and easy to manage. When something changes in your life—lost keys, stolen keys, a move to a new place, new staff, or a security scare—you need a professional you can trust. Our technicians travel across Santa Monica every day, providing lock change, rekey, and upgrade solutions with clear communication and fair, upfront pricing.
We know that most people do not think about locks until there is a problem. Maybe you misplaced keys during a hectic day, took over a new property, or noticed that your old lock is grinding, sticking, or feeling loose. Sometimes you need burglary repair after a break-in and suddenly realize your hardware is not strong enough. Whatever brought you here, Lock Change Santa Monica is ready to help you choose stronger, smarter options that fit your daily routine.
This page is an in-depth guide to lock change Santa Monica services. You will learn why people change locks, the difference between lock change and rekey, how deadbolt and mortise locks compare, why smart locks are becoming so popular, how much typical services cost, and why local customers rely on Lock Change Santa Monica for long-term security and peace of mind.
Contents
Introduction
Real security in Santa Monica starts with one simple idea: only the people you trust should have working keys to your property. That sounds basic, but life does not always make it easy. Lost keys, stolen keys, old roommates, past employees, former tenants, and unexpected moves all create situations where you cannot be sure who might still be able to unlock your door.
When you move to a new house/office, step into a new rental, or take over a business location, you inherit years of key history. Add in the possibility of a break-in that calls for burglary repair or a major security upgrade, and it becomes clear that changing or rekeying locks in Santa Monica California is not just a formality—it is an important step for your safety.
Lock Change Santa Monica is here to help you reset that access and build a stronger foundation. We provide mobile service, honest advice, and modern hardware so you can feel confident every time you lock your door, whether it is at home, at work, or at the back of your shop or warehouse.
Why Changing Locks
People in Santa Monica decide to change locks for many reasons, but most of them fit under one theme: regaining control. One of the most common triggers is lost keys. Keys fall out of pockets in rideshares, get left behind at gyms, or disappear in parking lots. Once keys are gone, you cannot control who finds them or whether they are connected to your address. A proper lock change or rekey makes those lost keys useless.
Another major reason is moving. When you move to a new house or move to a new office, you do not know how many key copies were made or where they ended up. Old owners, tenants, employees, contractors, realtors, cleaners, dog walkers, and neighbors might all still hold keys. Changing or rekeying your locks in Santa Monica California after a move is the fastest way to start your new chapter with a clean slate of access.
Security events also drive lock changes. After a break-in or attempted break-in, you might see damage on the surface, but hidden stress on the internal parts can make the lock easier to defeat next time. Burglary repair often includes upgrading deadbolts, adding longer screws, reinforcing strike plates, and installing better cylinders. A simple security upgrade like this can make your door significantly stronger against forced entry.
Sometimes the reason is more proactive. Locks wear out, keys get harder to turn, and older models may no longer offer adequate protection. Maybe you are ready for a security upgrade with high-security hardware, or you want to switch to smart locks so you can manage access codes instead of handing out keys. Whatever your situation, a professional lock change Santa Monica visit is a straightforward, high-impact way to improve safety.
Lock Change Vs Rekey
Many customers are not sure whether they need a full lock change or just a rekey, so we always take a moment to explain the difference. A lock change means we remove the entire lock and install a brand-new unit. This option is best when the hardware is worn, damaged, low-grade, or when you want a new style, finish, or brand. It is also required for many high-security cylinders and smart locks that need specific housings.
Rekeying is different. With a rekey, the existing lock stays on the door, but we change the internal pins so the old keys can no longer open it. New keys are cut to match the updated configuration. Rekeying is typically more budget-friendly and faster, making it ideal when your lock is still in good shape but you want to control who has access.
During your lock change Santa Monica appointment, we inspect your doors and locks, then talk through your goals. If the lock is structurally sound, rekeying might be the smartest option. If it is loose, rusted, or outdated, a full change is usually better for long-term reliability and security.
Deadbolt Vs Mortise
Deadbolt and mortise locks are two of the most common types we see in Santa Monica, and understanding the difference helps you choose the right upgrade. A deadbolt is the standard security lock on many residential doors. In a deadbolt lock, the cylinder is built outside of the door frame and passes through the door to connect with a solid metal bolt. When the bolt extends into a properly installed strike plate, it provides strong resistance to prying and kicking.
Deadbolts are popular because they are reliable, cost-effective, and available in different security grades. Higher-grade deadbolts have stronger bolts, improved internal parts, and added protection against drilling and picking. For most homes and light commercial properties in Santa Monica California, a well-installed deadbolt with a reinforced strike plate and long screws provides an excellent first line of defense.
Mortise locks work differently. Instead of sitting mainly in a circular bore, the mortise lock body fits into a rectangular pocket cut into the edge of the door. Inside this pocket, the lock combines latch and deadbolt functions into one heavy-duty unit. Mortise hardware is common on commercial doors, historic properties, multi-unit buildings, and high-traffic entrances because it delivers strength and durability over years of use.
If your door is already prepared for a mortise lock, it is usually best to replace it with another mortise system rather than trying to convert to a standard deadbolt. Converting can require significant modifications that weaken the door if not done correctly. Our technicians at Lock Change Santa Monica are trained to evaluate whether deadbolt or mortise hardware is right for your door and to install it to manufacturer specifications for maximum security.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are one of the most popular upgrades during lock change Santa Monica appointments because they add both security and convenience. Instead of relying only on metal keys, you can unlock your door with a code, smartphone app, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, fob, or card depending on the model. This is especially helpful for families, short-term rental hosts, property managers, and business owners who need flexible access control.
There are two main categories of smart locks: standard and retrofit. Standard smart locks replace your existing deadbolt or lock completely. They typically include a keypad or touchscreen outside and an electronic mechanism inside. This option gives your door a fresh look and allows features like temporary codes for guests, scheduled locking, and integration with smart home systems.
Retrofit smart locks are designed to work with the deadbolt you already have. They usually mount on the inside of the door and turn the existing thumb-turn electronically. From the outside, your hardware may look almost unchanged, but you gain app control, activity logs, and remote access. This makes retrofit models appealing in Santa Monica when you want smart features without changing the exterior style or when building rules are strict.
Both types of smart locks can support multiple users, provide notifications when someone enters, and let you revoke access instantly. During a smart lock change Santa Monica visit, we confirm compatibility with your door and Wi-Fi, recommend models that fit your needs, and complete the installation so you can start using your new technology with confidence.
Do It Yourself VS Using Professional Locksmith
It can be tempting to treat lock installation as a quick DIY project, but small mistakes can create big security gaps. Drilling holes slightly off center, misaligning the latch and strike plate, or using short screws can weaken your door, cause constant sticking, or make locks easier to force open. Many Santa Monica customers call us after a DIY attempt because the key will not turn smoothly, the bolt will not fully extend, or the door no longer latches correctly.
Choosing a professional locksmith means the job is done with the right tools, proper measurements, and years of field experience. Our technicians understand how wood, metal, and composite doors behave, how to adjust hinges and frames, and how to align locks for smooth, long-term performance. We also stand behind our work with a warranty on parts and labor, something DIY projects usually lack.
For interior closets, DIY might be fine. For front doors, rental units, and business entrances in Santa Monica California, professional installation is usually the better investment. You get better security, fewer headaches, and the comfort of knowing that if something goes wrong, we will come back to make it right.
Common Locks We Work With
Lock Change Santa Monica works with a wide range of trusted manufacturers so we can match the right lock to your specific needs, door style, and budget.
Emtek
Emtek locks offer customizable designer hardware that blends style with solid security for Santa Monica homes. See more at Emtek.
Medeco
Medeco high-security cylinders provide advanced resistance to drilling, picking, and bumping, ideal for critical doors. Learn more at Medeco.
Arrow
Arrow hardware delivers dependable commercial-grade locks for offices, schools, and light industrial spaces. Details at Arrow Lock.
Yale
Yale locks include classic deadbolts and modern smart locks that suit many Santa Monica properties. Visit Yale Home.
Baldwin
Baldwin hardware combines elegant designs with robust construction for upscale entry doors. Explore options at Baldwin.
Assa Abloy
Assa Abloy brings together multiple premium lock brands under one global group, offering advanced security solutions. Learn more at Assa Abloy.
Mul-T-Lock
Mul-T-Lock systems offer high-security cylinders with patented key control for homes and businesses. See details at Mul-T-Lock.
Schlage
Schlage locks provide reliable deadbolts, levers, and keypads for residential and commercial use. Visit Schlage.
Sargent
Sargent hardware is built for heavy use in schools, hospitals, and institutional properties. Learn more at Sargent.
Falcon
Falcon locks deliver practical, cost-effective security for offices and multi-tenant buildings. Explore at Falcon.
Kwikset
Kwikset hardware offers user-friendly residential locks with convenient rekey technology. See more at Kwikset.
Von Duprin
Von Duprin exit devices provide reliable panic hardware for emergency doors in busy facilities. Details at Von Duprin.
Simplex
Simplex pushbutton locks offer mechanical keyless entry, perfect for shared access points. Learn more at Simplex.
Stanley
Stanley hardware is designed for demanding commercial environments and frequent door use. Visit Stanley.
Corbin Russwin
Corbin Russwin locks deliver long-lasting performance in schools, campuses, and institutions. See products at Corbin Russwin.
Weiser
Weiser locks bring stylish residential hardware with handy rekey features. Explore at Weiser.
Kaba
Kaba access systems offer mechanical and electronic solutions for commercial security. Learn more at dormakaba.
Adams Rite
Adams Rite locks are engineered for aluminum and glass storefront doors commonly seen in Santa Monica. Visit Adams Rite.
Norton
Norton door closers complement your locks by controlling door speed and ensuring proper closing. See details at Norton.
How Much Does a Lock Change Service Cost?
Prices for lock change Santa Monica services depend on the number of doors, the type of hardware, and the condition of your doors and frames. Rekey jobs tend to be more affordable because we reuse existing locks. Full changes, high-security hardware, and smart lock installations cost more but deliver stronger protection, better features, and updated looks.
The table below shows typical estimated price ranges to help you plan your project. Actual pricing may vary depending on brand, complexity, and any extra repair work needed on frames or jambs.
| Service type | Price |
| Service call (trip charge) | $29 |
| Residential lock rekey (per cylinder) | $25 – $55 |
| Residential lock change (standard deadbolt) | $89 – $189 plus hardware |
| Commercial lock rekey (per cylinder) | $35 – $85 |
| Commercial lock change (cylindrical or mortise) | $145 – $295 plus hardware |
| High-security lock rekey | $75 – $145 |
| High-security lock change | $195 – $395 plus hardware |
| Smart lock installation (standard) | $135 – $265 plus device |
| Smart lock installation (retrofit) | $115 – $235 plus device |
These figures are estimates only. The final price depends on the condition of your door, frame alignment, and the specific lock models you choose. Your Lock Change Santa Monica technician will examine the situation on-site, explain your options, and provide a clear, final quote for you to approve before any work begins.
We believe in transparency, so there are no hidden fees or surprise charges. You always know what you are paying for and why, which is one reason customers across Santa Monica California keep coming back to us.
Why Choosing Lock Change Santa Monica
Lock Change Santa Monica has earned a strong reputation for being reliable, honest, and easy to work with. We maintain excellent ratings in town and are recognized across platforms like BBB, Google Maps, Yelp, Home Advisor, and more. Customers appreciate that we show up on time, explain things clearly, and treat every property with respect.
Our team brings more than 10 years of experience handling deadbolt and mortise lock change, rekey, and smart lock upgrades. We use class leading programming and diagnostics tools to make sure each job is done correctly, from basic residential doors to complex commercial hardware. All technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured, so you can feel comfortable letting us work on your home or business.
We also know that timing matters. That is why we offer fast response and same day mobile service when scheduling allows. Our vehicles are stocked with a wide range of residential, commercial, high-security, and smart locks, so we can usually complete your lock change Santa Monica service in one visit without unnecessary delays.
Every job comes with a 6 months warranty for parts and labor. If something does not feel right after we leave, just give us a call and we will come back to adjust or repair it. Our goal is to deliver long-term peace of mind, not a quick fix that leaves you worried.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to change locks after moving into a new place?
Yes. You have no way to know how many keys were made in the past or where they ended up. Changing or rekeying locks lets you reset access to your Santa Monica property.
Is rekeying as secure as replacing the entire lock?
Rekeying is secure as long as the existing hardware is in good condition. If you also want stronger materials, better grades, or a new style, a full lock change is a better option.
How long does a typical lock change Santa Monica appointment take?
Most residential locks take about 20 to 45 minutes per door, depending on the type of hardware, door material, and any frame adjustments needed for smooth operation.
Can you set up my doors so one key works for all of them?
Often yes. If your locks are compatible or we replace them with matching keyways, we can rekey them so a single key operates multiple doors for easier everyday use.
Are smart locks safe enough for my main entry door?
Quality smart locks from reputable brands provide strong physical security plus encrypted digital control. When installed and configured correctly, they are safe for primary entrances.
What is the advantage of high-security locks?
High-security locks offer better resistance to drilling, picking, and bumping, and they often use patented keys that cannot be copied without proper authorization, improving key control.
Do you handle both residential and commercial lock work?
Yes. We provide lock change Santa Monica services for homes, apartments, offices, storefronts, warehouses, and multi-unit buildings, including mortise locks and exit devices.
What should I do if I suspect someone has an unauthorized key?
You should schedule a rekey or lock change as soon as possible, especially after staff changes, relationship changes, or tenant disputes that may affect access to your property.
Can I provide my own hardware for you to install?
Yes. We will inspect your locks to confirm they are safe and compatible. If we see potential issues, we will explain them and recommend better options from our stocked inventory.
Do you offer any guarantee on your work?
Yes. Every lock change and rekey service from Lock Change Santa Monica includes a 6 months warranty for parts and labor. If you have issues during that period, we will come back to help.
Conclusion
When you are ready to upgrade your security with professional lock change Santa Monica service, our mobile locksmith team is here for you. We proudly serve Santa Monica California and nearby communities around Los Angeles, including Glendale, Burbank, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Inglewood, and West Hollywood. Our service area covers many neighborhoods and zip codes such as 90001, 90011, 90026, 90036, 90064, and 91401.
Whether you are dealing with lost keys, taking over a new property, planning a security upgrade, or recovering from a break-in, Lock Change Santa Monica brings experience, quality hardware, and straightforward communication to every job. Reach out today and let us help you feel safer and more in control every time you lock your door.