Smart lock installation service in Philadelphia: Go keyless the right way
Tired of fumbling for keys when your hands are full of groceries? Lost your keys last month and had to rekey everything? Running an Airbnb and tired of coordinating key exchanges with every guest?
Smart locks solve all of this. Unlock your door with a code, your phone, or automatically when you approach. Give temporary access to guests without physical keys. Never worry about lost or copied keys again.
We’re Ben Locksmith Philadelphia, and we install smart locks across Philadelphia. We help you choose the right system for your needs, install it properly on your door (even century-old Philly rowhomes), set up the app and codes, and make sure everything works perfectly.
Front doors, back doors, rental properties, your primary residence. Homes and businesses throughout Philadelphia.
Worried about smart locks? Common concerns addressed
People have legitimate questions about smart locks. Let’s address them:
What if the battery dies and I’m locked out?
Smart locks warn you weeks in advance with low-battery alerts. Most have backup key access. Some can be jump-started with a 9V battery held to contacts. You won’t get locked out.
Can someone hack my smart lock?
Quality smart locks use encrypted communication. They’re actually more secure than traditional keys which can be copied without your knowledge. We install reputable brands with proven security records.
What if my phone dies or I lose it?
Smart locks have multiple backup access methods: keypad codes, physical backup keys, or other authorized devices. You’re never dependent on just your phone.
Are they reliable or will they malfunction?
Modern smart locks are very reliable. We install proven brands that work consistently. Unlike mechanical locks that wear out over time, smart locks have fewer moving parts to fail.
I’m not tech-savvy. Is this too complicated?
We set everything up for you. We program it, show you how to use it, and make it simple. If you can use a smartphone, you can use a smart lock. And keypad-only options require zero tech knowledge.
What if WiFi goes down?
Most smart locks work locally without WiFi. Keypad codes still work. Bluetooth proximity unlock still works. Only remote access features need internet.
Is a smart lock right for you?
Smart locks aren’t for everyone. Here’s who benefits most:
Smart locks are great if you:
- Run an Airbnb or short-term rental (absolute game changer)
- Manage rental properties with tenant turnover
- Have kids who lose keys constantly
- Want smart home integration
- Are tired of carrying and losing keys
- Need to give temporary access frequently (cleaners, dog walkers, contractors, guests)
- Want to monitor who enters and when
- Have elderly parents who might lock themselves out
You might stick with traditional locks if you:
- Prefer maximum simplicity and no batteries
- Don’t have smartphone or aren’t comfortable with tech
- Want lowest possible cost (traditional locks are cheaper)
- Prefer traditional aesthetic
- Live where cell service or WiFi is unreliable
Not sure? We help you decide honestly based on your situation and needs.
Smart lock vs traditional deadbolt: The honest comparison
Traditional deadbolt:
- Lower upfront cost ($120-$180 installed)
- No batteries to replace
- Simple, reliable, proven technology
- Physical keys (can be lost, copied, or stolen)
- No remote access or monitoring
- Must be present to grant access
Smart lock:
- Higher upfront cost ($250-$450 installed)
- Batteries need replacement (yearly typically)
- More features, requires setup
- No physical keys needed (codes or phone)
- Remote access and entry logs
- Grant temporary access from anywhere
- Integration with smart home systems
Both are secure when properly installed. Choice depends on your needs, budget, and lifestyle. For complete lock options, check our lock installation service.
Need a professional smart lock installation service? Give us a call
Whatever your locksmith needs, we’ve got you covered.
Which smart lock do you need?
Keypad only (no WiFi)
Simplest smart lock option. Punch in code to unlock. No app, no phone needed, no remote access.
Best for: Budget-conscious, don’t need remote features, want simple keyless entry.
Price range: $200-$280 installed.
Popular brands: Schlage Encode, Kwikset, Powerbolt.
Bluetooth (phone proximity)
Unlocks automatically when you approach with the phone. No WiFi needed, lower battery drain. Can’t control remotely when you’re away.
Best for: Personal homes where you don’t need remote access but want auto-unlock convenience.
Price range: $250-$350 installed.
Popular brands: August Smart Lock, Level Lock.
WiFi-enabled (full remote access)
Control from anywhere via phone app. Grant temporary access remotely. Activity logs and notifications. Smart home integration with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit.
Best for: Airbnbs, rental properties, want full control from anywhere, smart home enthusiasts.
Price range: $300-$450 installed.
Popular brands: Yale Assure Lock, Schlage Encode Plus, August WiFi.
Hybrid (key plus smart features)
Smart features PLUS traditional key backup. Best of both worlds.
Best for: Want smart features but peace of mind of having physical key options.
Price range: $300-$450 installed.
Not sure which type? We assess your needs, your door, and your budget. We recommend what actually makes sense for you.
Smart locks for Airbnb and rental properties
Running an Airbnb or short-term rental in Philadelphia? Smart locks are a game changer.
Problems they solve:
- No more coordinating key exchange with every guest
- No more hiding keys under mats or in lockboxes
- No worry about guests copying keys
- No need to rekey between guests
- No dealing with lost keys
How it works:
- Create unique code for each guest
- Set code to work only during their stay dates
- Code expires automatically at checkout
- Next guest gets different code
- Control everything from your phone remotely
- Know exactly when guests arrive and leave
Popular in these Philadelphia areas:
- Fishtown vacation rentals
- Northern Liberties Airbnbs
- Center City short-term rentals
- University City furnished apartments
We install and program smart locks for Philadelphia Airbnb hosts and property managers constantly. We make the whole process easy.
Installing smart locks on old Philadelphia doors
Many Philadelphia homes have doors from the 1920s, 30s, 40s, or earlier. Thick wood, original hardware, settled frames. Can smart locks work on these?
Yes. We do it constantly.
Challenges we handle:
- Thick old doors require proper drilling for electronics
- Settled frames need alignment adjustment
- Original mortise lock locations differ from modern hardware
- Preserving door character while adding modern technology
Our approach:
- Assess door thickness and condition before recommending locks
- Select smart locks compatible with your specific door
- Install without damaging historic wood
- Ensure proper alignment despite settled frames
- Make it look good and work reliably
We’ve retrofitted smart locks on century-old South Philly rowhomes, Port Richmond historic properties, and everything in between. Your old door can go smart. For work on historic locks, see our lock repair service.
Our smart lock installation process
We assess your door and needs
Before recommending a smart lock, we evaluate:
Door compatibility: Thickness, material (wood, metal, composite), condition, existing hardware.
Your needs: Airbnb? Personal home? Need remote access? Want the simplest option?
Connectivity: Do you have reliable WiFi? Do you want app control?
Budget: What makes sense financially for your situation?
We recommend smart locks that actually work for your specific door and needs.
We install and configure everything
Remove old hardware: If replacing an existing lock, we remove it carefully.
Install smart lock: Precise drilling and mounting. Proper alignment with frame and strike plate.
Reinforce if needed: Add longer screws or reinforced strikes for security.
Test mechanical operation: Ensure bolt extends and retracts smoothly.
We set up all the technology
App installation: Download and set up the app on your phone.
Lock pairing: Connect smart lock to your phone or WiFi network.
Programming: Set up user codes, admin access, settings.
Feature walkthrough: Show you how to use all features: unlock, lock, grant access, check logs, change codes.
Testing: Test everything multiple times to ensure it all works.
We don’t leave until you’re comfortable using your new smart lock and everything functions perfectly.
Residential and commercial smart lock installation
Residential homes and apartments
We install smart locks in Philadelphia homes of all types:
Primary residences: Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Center City, South Philly rowhomes, Northeast homes, everywhere.
Vacation rentals and Airbnbs: Perfect application for smart locks with temporary access codes.
Rental properties: Landlords love smart locks for easy access management between tenants.
Back and side doors: Not just front doors. Install smart locks on all entry points.
For comprehensive home locksmith services, visit our residential locksmith page.
Commercial businesses
Businesses use smart locks for access control and security:
Offices: Employee access with individual codes. Track who enters when.
Retail stores: Manager access, employee access, restricted areas.
Medical practices: HIPAA-compliant access control with audit trails.
Co-working spaces: Easy member access without physical keys.
Multi-tenant buildings: Property managers control access for all units.
For complete business security, check our commercial locksmith services.
What does smart lock installation cost in Philadelphia?
Keypad-only smart lock installation: $200 to $280. Basic smart lock without WiFi, includes professional installation.
Bluetooth smart lock installation: $250 to $350. Phone-controlled with auto-unlock features.
WiFi smart lock installation: $300 to $450. Full remote access, app control, smart home integration.
Premium smart deadbolts: $350 to $500. High-security brands with all features.
Multiple doors: Better per-door pricing when installing on several doors at once.
Old door retrofitting: May add $50-$100 if the door requires significant modification or reinforcement.
Setup and programming: Always included. We set up app, program codes, and teach you everything.
Price includes smart lock hardware, complete installation, programming, setup, testing, and instructions on use.
Compared to traditional deadbolt: Standard deadbolt installation runs $120-$180. Smart locks cost more upfront but provide significantly more features and convenience. If you just need basic security, check our deadbolt installation service.
Smart lock brands we install and recommend
We install most major smart lock brands. These are our most frequently installed:
Schlage Encode/Encode Plus: Reliable, good WiFi features, solid all-around choice. Popular with Philadelphia homeowners.
Yale Assure Lock: Sleek design, reliable performance, excellent smart home integration.
August Smart Lock: Popular retrofit option that works over existing deadbolt. Strong app and features.
Kwikset Halo: Budget-friendly WiFi option with good feature set. Great value.
Level Lock: Ultra-minimal design. Looks like a traditional lock from outside, full smart features hidden inside.
We’re not locked into one brand. We recommend what works best for your specific door, needs, and budget.
Service areas: Smart lock installation service across Philadelphia
Center City and downtown Philadelphia
Apartments and condos in Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, Midtown Village, Logan Square and Old City. High rise buildings, historic properties, modern construction. We know downtown access and building protocols.
Classic Philly rowhomes in Bella Vista, Queen Village, Passyunk Square, East Passyunk, Pennsport, Point Breeze. Those narrow rowhomes with tight doorways and street parking. We navigate South Philly constantly.
Temple University area, Fishtown, Fairmount, Northern Liberties, Poplar, Port Richmond, Brewerytown, Olde Kensington, Kensington. Student housing, apartments, rowhomes, new construction. We cover North Philly thoroughly.
West Philadelphia
University City near Penn and Drexel, Powelton Village, Cedar Park, Spruce Hill. Student apartments, family homes, Victorian houses. We serve West Philly regularly.
Mayfair, Frankford, Tacony, Bustleton, Fox Chase. Single family homes, twins, apartment complexes. Residential neighborhoods where we help families get back inside.
Manayunk, Roxborough, East Falls, Germantown, Chestnut Hill, Mount Airy. Hillside homes, rowhomes, apartments, single family houses. We handle Northwest Philly’s diverse housing.
Nearby suburbs
Bensalem, Cheltenham, Upper Darby, Lansdowne, and other communities close to Philadelphia. If you’re near the city and locked out, call us.
Frequently asked questions
Are smart locks actually secure?
Yes, when installed properly. Quality smart locks use encrypted communication and hardened cylinders. They’re more secure than traditional keys which can be copied secretly. We reinforce doors and frames for maximum security.
Can smart locks be installed on any door?
Most standard doors can accept a smart lock. We inspect your door first and recommend compatible options. Very thin hollow doors may need reinforcement.
How long do batteries last?
Typically 6 to 12 months depending on usage. Most smart locks warn you weeks in advance when the battery is low. Easy to replace, usually just 4 AA batteries.
What happens if batteries die?
Most smart locks have backup key access. Some can be jump-started with a 9V battery. And they warn you long before dying. Battery death lockouts are extremely rare.
Can you install smart locks on old Philadelphia rowhome doors?
Yes. We do it constantly. Thick historic doors, settled frames, original hardware locations—we handle all these challenges. We’ve retrofitted smart locks on century-old Philadelphia properties successfully.
Will you remove my existing lock?
Yes. We warranty our repair work. If the lock fails because of our repair within the warranty period, we return and fix it at no additional charge. Parts also carry manufacturer warranty when applicable.
Can you repair locks after someone tries to break in?
Yes. We remove your current lock and install the smart lock in its place. Or some smart locks (like August) can be installed over your existing deadbolt.
Can I install a smart lock myself?
You could, but professional installation ensures proper alignment, security, reinforcement, and function. DIY mistakes often result in weak security or malfunctioning locks. We guarantee our installation work.
Do smart locks work during power outages?
Yes. Smart locks run on batteries, not house power. They work fine during power outages. Only WiFi features require internet—local operation continues.
Ready to go keyless? Let's install your smart lock
Call now: +1 267-585-6033
Tired of carrying keys? Running an Airbnb? Want remote access to your door? We install smart locks across Philadelphia.
We help you choose the right system for your needs and budget. We install it properly on your door—even old historic doors. We set up the app, program your codes, and make sure everything works perfectly.
Most installations are completed the same day.
Fast response
Average 15-20 minutes response time
Local service
Serving Greater Philadelphia
24/7 Emergency
Always here when you need us