Residential · Locksmith Service
Lock Repair Services
Not every lock that sticks, doesn't turn, binds, loose, fails to latch, falls out, or fails to secure the door needs to be replaced. Diagnosing the reason a lock is not working properly and offering a dependable repair is the focus of our lock repair service.
The solution may be to adjust the lock, service the cylinder or latch, or to repair or restore the support structure. In some cases where the hardware cannot be relied upon, we may need to replace the lock.
When Do You Need Lock Repair?
- Key is hard to insert or turn.
- Lock feels sticky or binds.
- Deadbolt does not move out and in.
- Latch is not aligned with the strike.
- Turning the lock doesn't secure the door.
- Loose lock or key hardware.
- Key is broken in the lock.
- Lock or key hardware has been damaged and may need an assessment.
- A storefront or commercial lock has been damaged.
- Visible lock hardware has been damaged during attempted entry.
What Issues Does Lock Repair Address?
Lock repair fixes broken locks, misalignment, or fit problems in lock systems. The real issue is whether the hardware can be fixed instead of whether the lock is broken.
| Problem | Likely Path |
|---|---|
| Old keys should stop working but lock works | Lock Rekeying |
| Serviceable mechanical/alignment problem | Lock Repair |
| Hardware is badly damaged, worn, unsuitable or upgrade-needed | Lock Replacement |
| Broken key is obstructing the cylinder | Broken Key Extraction |
| Urgent damage leaves property unsecured | Emergency Locksmith / Burglary Repair |
What is lock repair?
Lock repair is the restoration of a damaged existing lock mechanism.
The process may include the cylinder, latch, deadbolt, strike, alignment, key function, and any other mechanism. The result of proper lock repair should be a working lock which fits the door and its requirements of security.
What Results Should You Expect?
The key and lock should function properly, the latch or deadbolt should engage, and the hardware, when fully repaired, should continue to be appropriate for the door. If dependable operation cannot be restored, a replacement should be offered instead of a temporary repair that would be considered a final solution.
Broken Keys, Break-In Damage & Related Issues
A break in an identified key can obstruct an assessment of the lock. Attempting to gain access can result in damage to the cylinder, latch, strike or supported lock hardware. Keep deeper issues on their respective pages and use this page to determine if the lock is otherwise repairable.
Residential & Commercial Lock Repair
In general, the repair of residential locks is connected to the front door, the deadbolt and other latch and alignment issues. The repair of commercial locks is related to the front door cylinder and other supported lock hardware of a business. Specialty commercial hardware, panic devices, door closers, high-security systems and access control should direct the user to the respective repair service page.
Security, Authorization & Repair Limits
Lock repair impacts the security of a property, so service should only be performed for a legitimate customer. Do not assure that all broken locks can be fixed. Hardware that is worn beyond repair, insecure or incompatible, antiquated or unserviceable should be replaced.
How it works
How Does Lock Repair Work?
- 1
Define the Problem
What is wrong with the lock? What type of door is it in? What type of property is it on? Where is the property? Is it a rush job?
- 2
Lock & Door Evaluation
Check the lock cylinder, latch, deadbolt, strikes, key operation, and door hardware.
- 3
Find the Cause
Determine if the issue is repair related, alignment related, removal related, or if it is a clear replacement issue.
- 4
Explain the Servicing Process
Explain the supported repair or replacement, the verified estimate or price, and the supported service path.
- 5
Adjust & Repair
Adjust or repair the supported serviceable components and hardware.
- 6
Test Operation
Test the key, cylinder, and latch/deadbolt, and door operation before completing the repair.
Common Lock Problems & Possible Causes
- Key is hard to turn: key wear, cylinder wear, internal issue, alignment or door/strike movement.
- Deadbolt will not move smoothly: alignment, bolt/strike interference, hardware wear or internal issue.
- Door will not latch: latch/strike alignment, door movement or related hardware.
- Lock feels loose: loose mounting, worn hardware or cylinder/trim issue.
- Key broke in lock: key/cylinder condition requires extraction and assessment.
- Lock damaged after attempted entry: cylinder, latch, strike or surrounding supported hardware may need repair or replacement.
How Long Does Lock Repair Take?
The repair time depends on the type of lock, the cause of the failure, the state of the hardware, the required parts, the degree of alignment, the number of locks, and whether other services such as broken-key extraction are performed concurrently.
How Much Does Lock Repair Cost?
The cost of repairing a lock is dependent on the lock and hardware, the nature and extent of the fault, the labor, the parts, the degree of alignment, and broken-key or cylinder work, if performed, the nature of the service (commercial or residential), and whether the service is performed either due to an emergency or due to damage.
To provide a relevant estimate for the work, the symptom, the type of door, the type of property, the number of locks affected, the service location, and an indication whether the property can remain secured should be provided.
Repair vs Rekey vs Replace
This page provides a brief answer; more detailed information is found on the related page.
| Need | Best-Fit Service |
|---|---|
| Lock works; key access needs to change | Rekey |
| Lock has a serviceable mechanical/alignment problem | Repair |
| Lock is damaged, worn, unsuitable or being upgraded | Replace |
| Urgent security/access failure | Emergency service |
Lock Repair Service Areas
Lock & Key Pros offers lock repair services to our service area. To find local Locksmith information and Locksmiths that can help you, choose your city below.
Lock Repair FAQs
Can a locksmith repair a door lock?
Most door lock issues can be resolved so long as the hardware can be fixed and restored.
Why is it difficult to turn my door lock?
Key or cylinder wear, internal issues, alignment, and movement of the door and the strike can all contribute to this problem. The lock and the door should be assessed together.
Can a locksmith fix a lock that will not latch?
Sometimes. The lock could be fine, but the strike and latch could be out of alignment.
Fix it or change it if my lock is broken?
Repair is an option if the functionality of the lock can be restored. If there is too much damage on the lock, or it is a bad lock, replacement would be the better choice.
Can a broken key mess up the lock?
Fragmentation can be problematic here; extraction and assessment are vital.
Can a lock be repaired after someone has tried to open it?
Repairing can be considered if the lock is capable of being repaired. Otherwise, replacement should be the preferred method if the lock is extensively damaged, obsolete, or is simply a poor quality lock.
Do you repair commercial locks?
Yes. Lock & Key Pros offers commercial lock repair services for the supported lock and door hardware. Call us to determine what service is needed for the type of property with their door and lock problem.
How much does lock repair cost?
This is dependent on the type of hardware, the cause, the extent of the damage and the cost for the parts as well as the alignment and labor. Please give details of the job to get an estimate.
Do you provide same-day or emergency repair?
Yes. Lock & Key Pros offers a 24-hour locksmith service for emergency locks, in case of urgent lock issues, they will provide services that will help you repair the lock, if it can be safely and reliably repaired. Where it cannot be repaired, it may be recommended for replacement.
Do you repair locks in Tarzana?
Yes. Lock & Key Pros offers lock repair services in Tarzana for supported residential and commercial locks. Call us with the kind of door and the issue you're having to ascertain what repair service you need.
Need a Lock Repaired?
Describe what the lock is doing, the kind of door or property, how many locks are impacted, your service location and if the property is currently able to be secured.