Apartment Rekeying Service
apartment rekeying in Austin. Tenant move-in/move-out rekeying, landlord rekeying services. Fast, affordable, $75-$100 per lock. Same-day.
Apartment Rekeying for Tenants & Landlords
Whether you’re a tenant moving into a new apartment or a landlord managing property turnover, rekeying ensures security without the cost of replacing locks.
Apartment rekeying is faster and cheaper than lock replacement, typically taking 10-15 minutes per lock and costing $75-$100 per lock vs. $150-$250 for replacement.
For Tenants: Why Rekey Your Apartment?
Move-In Security
Previous tenants may have given keys to friends, family, or service providers. Even if they returned keys to the landlord, you can’t know if copies were made.
Who might have keys:
- Previous tenant and their household members
- Previous tenant’s friends with “emergency” copies
- Maintenance workers from previous tenancy
- Previous property managers
- Landlord’s contractors
- Lost keys that were never recovered
Smart tenants rekey when moving in. The $75-$200 cost buys peace of mind that only you control access to your home.
Lost Key Protection
Lost your apartment keys? Rekeying is safer than hoping they don’t end up in the wrong hands.
Rekeying vs. hoping:
- Rekeying: $75-$200, guaranteed security
- Hoping: Free, but risk that keys are used by someone else
Most Austin apartments can be rekeyed same-day, so you’re not vulnerable for long.
Privacy & Security Concerns
If you’re concerned about who has access to your apartment, rekeying gives you control. This is especially important for ground-floor apartments or units with previous security issues.
For Landlords: Apartment Turnover Rekeying
Between Every Tenant
Professional landlords rekey between every tenant. Even if tenants return all keys, you can’t know if copies exist.
Liability protection:
- If previous tenant’s keys are used in a break-in, landlord may be liable
- Rekeying demonstrates reasonable security measures
- Documentation protects against negligence claims
Rekeying costs $75-$200 per unit. Liability lawsuits cost thousands. Rekeying is cheap insurance.
Multi-Unit Discounts
We offer substantial discounts for landlords with multiple units:
Volume discounts:
- 5+ units: 15% off
- 10+ units: 20% off
- 20+ units: 25% off
- 50+ units: Custom pricing
Example: 10-unit building, 1 lock per unit
- Base cost: 10 × $90 = $900
- 20% discount: -$180
- Total: $720 ($72 per unit)
Master Key Systems for Property Managers
We can set up master key systems where:
- Each tenant has a key that only opens their unit
- Property manager has a master key that opens all units
- Individual unit keys don’t open other units
- Emergency access without carrying 50+ keys
Master key systems are ideal for apartment buildings, condo associations, and multi-unit properties. Ask about setup costs.
Apartment Rekeying Process
Step 1: Access Coordination
For tenants: We coordinate with you directly. You must be present or provide temporary access.
For landlords: We can work with property managers, maintenance staff, or meet you on-site.
Step 2: Lock Assessment
We verify all locks are rekeyable and in good working condition. If locks are damaged or low-quality, we’ll recommend replacement (only if truly necessary).
Step 3: Pin Reconfiguration
We remove each lock cylinder, extract old pins, install new pins matching your new key configuration, and test for smooth operation.
Time per lock: 10-15 minutes Time per apartment: 15-30 minutes (1-2 locks typical)
Step 4: Key Cutting
We cut keys on-site:
- Tenants: 3-4 keys standard
- Landlords: As many keys as needed for tenant + office records
Step 5: Documentation
For landlords, we provide:
- Invoice with unit numbers and lock counts
- Date of service for your records
- Copy of keys for office records
- Digital records if you have property management software
Landlord Service Plans
Monthly Turnover Contracts
If you have regular tenant turnover, we offer monthly service contracts:
What’s included:
- Priority scheduling (same-day or next-day service)
- Discounted per-lock rates
- Monthly invoicing (easier accounting)
- Digital service records
- Emergency rekeying for lost keys
Who benefits: Property managers with 10+ units, apartment complexes, condo associations, multi-family property owners.
Example contract: 20-unit complex with 2-3 turnovers per month
- Per-lock rate: $70 (vs. $90 standard)
- Monthly invoice covers all turnovers
- Priority scheduling ensures quick turnover
Tenant Move-In/Move-Out Coordination
We coordinate directly with your tenants for move-in rekeying:
- Tenant schedules service
- We rekey the unit
- We provide keys to both tenant and landlord
- You receive invoice for your records
This saves you time while ensuring security for both you and your tenant.
Texas Tenant Rights & Rekeying
Landlord Responsibilities
Texas Property Code doesn’t explicitly require rekeying, but:
- Landlords must provide “working locks” on all exterior doors
- If lease promises rekeying, landlord must follow through
- Failure to maintain security may create liability
Most Austin leases include rekeying clauses. Check your specific lease.
Tenant Rights
If your lease requires landlord to rekey but they haven’t:
- Make written request (email or certified mail)
- Give reasonable time to respond (7-14 days)
- If no action, you may rekey and deduct from rent (document everything)
Important: Only deduct if lease or statute explicitly allows it. Consult tenant rights attorney if unsure.
Lost Key Scenarios
Common lease provisions:
- First lost key: Landlord pays for rekeying
- Subsequent lost keys: Tenant pays
- Flat fee ($75-$150) instead of actual cost
- Security deposit deduction if keys not returned
Read your lease carefully. We’ve seen everything from landlord-pays-all to tenant-pays-for-everything.
When to Rekey vs. Replace Locks
Rekey Your Apartment Locks When:
- Moving in (security from previous tenants)
- Lost keys (cheaper than replacement)
- Tenant turnover (landlord cost control)
- Breakup or roommate change
- Keys given to service providers you no longer use
Replace Apartment Locks When:
- Locks are damaged or broken
- Keys are very difficult to turn
- You want smart locks (keypad access, app control)
- Current locks are low-quality builder-grade
- Upgrading security after break-in attempt
For most apartment situations, rekeying delivers same security at 50-70% lower cost.
Same-Day Apartment Rekeying
We understand apartment turnover is time-sensitive. Vacant units cost landlords money. Tenants need to move in quickly.
Same-day service:
- Call before noon: Usually same-afternoon service
- Emergency lockouts: Next available appointment
- Multi-unit jobs: We bring extra staff to complete quickly
Typical timing:
- Single apartment: 30-45 minutes (arrival to completion)
- 5-unit turnover: 2-3 hours
- 10-unit building: Half day with two technicians
We work efficiently without sacrificing quality. Your tenants get smooth-operating locks, not rushed rekeying jobs.
Austin Apartment Rekeying Service Area
We serve apartment complexes and rental properties throughout:
- Downtown Austin apartments
- North Austin (Round Rock, Pflugerville, Cedar Park)
- South Austin (South Lamar, South Congress, Manchaca)
- East Austin
- West Austin (Westlake, Tarrytown)
- University area (West Campus, North Campus)
Mobile service means we come to your property. No need to remove locks and transport them to a shop.
Get Professional Apartment Rekeying
Tenants: Call (512) 354-0025 to schedule move-in rekeying or lost key service.
Landlords: Call for volume pricing quotes and service contracts.
Most apartment rekeying jobs are completed same-day. We’ll answer your questions about Texas tenant law, landlord responsibilities, and the rekeying process.
Professional rekeying protects both tenants and landlords. Don’t risk previous keys compromising security. Call today for fast, affordable apartment rekeying service.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for rekeying an apartment - tenant or landlord?
Texas law doesn't explicitly require landlords to rekey between tenants, but many lease agreements include this requirement. Check your lease agreement - most Austin apartment complexes and landlords include clauses about lock security. Common arrangements: (1) Landlord pays for rekeying between tenants (included in turnover costs), (2) Tenant pays if they lose keys or want additional security, (3) Security deposit covers rekeying if tenant loses keys. Best practice for landlords: Rekey between every tenant. Even if the previous tenant returned all keys, you can't know if copies were made. This protects both you and your new tenant from liability. For tenants: If your lease requires the landlord to rekey but they haven't, you can usually deduct the cost from rent after written notice. Document everything (written request, invoice, receipt) if you go this route.
How much does it cost to rekey an apartment in Austin?
Most Austin apartments have 1-2 exterior locks (front door, sometimes a deadbolt and entry knob). At $75-$100 per lock, expect $75-$200 per apartment for complete rekeying. Landlord multi-unit pricing: 5+ units save 15%, 10+ units save 20%, 20+ units save 25%. We also offer monthly service contracts for property managers who need regular rekeying. Example pricing for landlords: 10-unit complex with 1 lock per unit = $900 base cost, minus 20% discount = $720 total ($72 per unit). Time: 2-3 hours for all units. This is significantly cheaper than replacing locks ($150-$250 per lock). Rekeying maintains your existing hardware while ensuring security between tenants.
Can my landlord rekey my apartment without telling me?
In Texas, landlords must provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your apartment, except in emergencies. Rekeying while you're still a tenant typically requires notice. If your landlord rekeyed your apartment and didn't give you new keys, this could constitute illegal lockout under Texas Property Code. You have the right to call a locksmith (us) to regain entry, and your landlord may be liable for costs plus penalties. Exception: If you've violated your lease (non-payment, illegal activity), eviction procedures allow lock changes, but formal eviction process must be followed. Common legitimate scenarios: (1) End of lease - landlord rekeys for new tenant, (2) Security concern - landlord rekeys with your knowledge if locks are compromised, (3) Lost keys - you request rekeying and landlord approves. If you're concerned about your landlord rekeying without permission, document everything (lease terms, communications, entry notices). Texas tenant rights are strong in lockout situations.
Should I rekey my apartment when I move in?
Yes, unless your landlord provides written proof the locks were rekeyed before you moved in. Previous tenants, maintenance workers, property managers, and landlords from years ago may have keys. Even if your landlord says "we changed the locks," ask for documentation. Many landlords mean "we rekeyed" when they say "changed locks," and some don't do either. If your lease doesn't address rekeying: (1) Ask landlord to rekey before move-in (best option), (2) Request permission to rekey at your cost (keep old keys to reinstall at move-out), (3) Rekey without asking (check lease carefully - some require landlord permission). Cost: $75-$200 for typical apartment. Worth it for peace of mind, especially in ground-floor or easily-accessible units. Landlord cooperation: Most landlords approve tenant-requested rekeying if you provide them with keys. This actually protects them from liability if previous tenant keys are used for break-ins.
Do I need to give my landlord a key if I rekey my apartment?
Check your lease agreement. Most leases require you to provide the landlord with a key for emergency access (fire, water leak, maintenance). Texas law allows landlords reasonable access for repairs, inspections, and emergencies. Refusing to provide a key may violate your lease and could be grounds for eviction. Standard practice: When you rekey, provide 2-3 keys to your landlord. Keep 2-3 for yourself. Everyone has access for legitimate purposes (you for daily use, landlord for emergencies). Privacy concerns: Your landlord cannot enter without proper notice except in emergencies. Providing them with a key doesn't give them unlimited access - they must still follow Texas Property Code notice requirements. We recommend: Rekey with landlord's knowledge, provide them with keys, and request they notify you before using them except in emergencies. Document this arrangement in writing.
What happens if I lose my apartment keys?
Contact your landlord immediately. Typical process: (1) Landlord provides spare key if available, (2) If no spare, landlord arranges locksmith service, (3) Cost is either covered by landlord or charged to you per your lease. Many leases specify: First lost key = landlord covers cost, subsequent lost keys = tenant pays for rekeying. Some leases charge flat fees ($50-$150) instead of actual rekeying costs. If you're locked out and can't reach your landlord: You can call a locksmith (us) to regain entry. Document that you attempted to contact landlord first (call logs, texts, emails). Most leases allow this in emergency lockout situations. After regaining entry, the lock should be rekeyed so the old keys (now lost) don't work. This protects both you and your landlord. Check your lease for who pays - typically tenant pays if they lost the keys. Lost key fees in Austin leases typically range from $75 (rekey one lock) to $200 (rekey all unit locks). Much cheaper than replacing locks.
Pricing
Starting at
$75
Average cost
$90
Price range
$75 - $100
Price per lock. Most apartments have 1-2 exterior locks. Landlord multi-unit discounts available. Final quote based on number of units, lock type, and service frequency.
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