In most cases, you don't need a locksmith to install a smart lock. But, a locksmith or installer will have industry knowledge that can help you make better decisions regarding the best access control and security options for your property.
You can install a smart lock yourself; most of them do not require professional installation.
The national average cost is between $250 and $400 for an installed smart lock and related accessories, with most homeowners paying $300 for a WiFi-enabled smart lock with one accessory. Some simple models that fit over an existing lock can be installed for as little as $150.
These are the hardest to install because you will need specialised tools and advanced skills to cut the mortise in the door. We highly recommend that you get a professional installer or a locksmith to get these types of locks installed.
Replacing locks can be simple, but with so many different types of locks and doors out there, it can be difficult to know what to purchase. Many homeowners choose to call a locksmith to make sure the job is done correctly.
Most Home Depot's have an associate on staff that can rekey door locks. Call your local Home Depot and make sure that the person that does the rekeying service is there before you arrive. Also there may be a charge for this service.
Lowes won't rekey an old lock you carry in, you have to buy it right there. ... unless you get an employee in a good mood that feels like helping. They use the 5 digit code on your key to know what pins to put in the lock.
Like any other internet-connected device, smart door locks are susceptible to hacking attempts, potentially putting your home security at risk. Criminals with the right skills and knowledge could exploit vulnerabilities in the lock's software or hijack your network to gain unauthorized access to your home.
Smart locks are designed to be opened with codes, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, making them part of the types of locks locksmiths cannot open using traditional locksmith tools. To access these locks, locksmiths typically need advanced IT skills and knowledge of digital systems.
Alternatively, rather than learning how to rekey a smart lock yourself, you can choose to hire a locksmith to rekey your lock. According to Home Advisor estimates, rekeying a home lock typically costs about $80 to $160 when you hire the job out.
Changing a Yale lock typically costs around £100 during normal business hours. If it's an emergency, most locksmiths will charge a call-out fee ranging from £50 to £150. These figures represent typical costs, but the actual cost of your lock replacement project may vary based on several crucial factors.
The bottom line: With a well-built smart lock, not only is it unlikely for anyone to get a hold of a spare key, but also standard lock picking techniques will fail, and electronic access through hacking becomes nearly impossible when two-factor authentication and 128-bit encryption are enabled.
Yale Assure Lock 2
The support for multiple smart home standards make the Yale Assure Lock 2 one of the best smart locks available. It works with Alexa, Google Home, HomeKit and SmartThings, and also supports Matter.
Typically, prices range from $150 to $400, including the lock and professional installation. Smart locks with advanced features may cost more. DIY installation can save costs if you have the necessary skills.
Are smart locks safer than traditional key locks? They can be, assuming you follow the right online security measures. Smart locks are harder to pick than traditional locks.
With a smart lock, you can also open the lock manually. You usually use an extra key or tag as an addition to other methods of opening the door. If your phone empty or can't connect to the app? That's when you'd use the RFID tag.
One of the primary concerns with smart locks is the potential for hacking. As these devices are connected to the internet or a home automation system, they become susceptible to cyber attacks. Hackers can exploit weak passwords, outdated software, or even intercept communication between the lock and the user's device.
Other Lock Types That Locksmith Technicians Won't Open
Thumbprint locks or visual recognition locks are similar to smart locks because they require some IT experience to open. Some expert locksmith technicians in cybersecurity may offer services that involve opening thumbprint locks, most will not.
Smart lock technology should work with any door that also works with a standard deadbolt lock. You do need to make sure that the door is aligned cleanly with the frame so that the bolt goes smoothly into the strike plate hole when the door is closed and does not require any special finessing.
Battery-Powered Smart Locks
Lifespan: Typically, 6 months to 1 year, depending on usage and battery quality.
Here are some key differences between the two: Connectivity: Electronic locks are typically not connected to the internet, and do not provide remote access or monitoring capabilities. Smart locks, on the other hand, are connected to the internet and allow remote control and monitoring via a mobile app or web interface.
Grade Ratings: Schlage locks often meet or exceed industry standards for security, such as ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certification. This indicates their ability to withstand high levels of physical attack.
Due to the extremely low price of the key pins in the locks, rekeying is almost always much cheaper than getting your locks changed.
To rekey locks, you or a handyman professional have to remove the key cores from the locking hardware and replace them with lock patterns that match new keys. This sounds simple but actually is time-consuming and can get costly, as you have to pay for labor and buy new equipment.
We rekey Kwikset and Schlage locks at a fraction of the price of having to replace your locksets. We can also create a 'master key' for superintendents or landlords that need access to multiple units without carrying a hundred keys. We also key Masterlock padlocks to an existing Masterlock key.