Lock replacement service in Philadelphia: Fast, reliable, same day
Your lock is broken. The key won’t turn anymore. The bolt won’t catch. Or someone tried to break in and damaged it beyond repair.
Maybe your lock isn’t broken yet, but it’s getting there. Sticky, hard to turn, feels loose. You know it’s going to fail soon and you want to replace it before that happens.
We’re Ben Locksmith Philadelphia, and we replace broken and worn-out locks across Philadelphia every day. Residential deadbolts that finally gave up after 20 years. Commercial locks damaged in break-in attempts. Old hardware that needs to be swapped out before it fails completely.
We come to you with quality replacement locks. We remove the old one, install the new one properly, test it, and hand you new keys. Usually on the same day. Often within a few hours if it’s urgent.
Broken lock in your South Philly rowhome? Damaged business lock in Center City? Worn out deadbolt that needs replacing? We’ll get there fast.
EMERGENCY: Lock replacement after break-in
Someone broke in or tried to. Your lock is damaged. The door frame might be damaged. You don’t feel safe. You need it fixed NOW.
We prioritize break-in situations. Same day service in most Philadelphia neighborhoods, often within a few hours. We come with quality replacement locks, install immediately, and restore your security fast.
This is urgent. We understand that.
If your lock was damaged in a break-in or attempted break-in, call us immediately: +1 267-585-6033
We’ll assess the damage, replace the lock, reinforce the strike if needed, and make sure your door is secure again. For all emergency locksmith situations, see our emergency locksmith services.
When you need lock replacement
After break-in or attempted forced entry
Someone tried to force your door. Maybe they succeeded, maybe they didn’t. Either way, the lock is damaged. The cylinder might be cracked, the mechanism bent, the bolt damaged.
You need the lock replaced immediately. Old lock out, new secure lock in. We handle post-break-in replacements constantly across Philadelphia. We know you’re shaken up. We work fast to restore your security and your peace of mind.
Lock broke or finally wore out
You’ve been dealing with a sticky lock for months. It’s gotten harder and harder to turn. Now it finally broke. Key won’t go in, or it goes in but won’t turn, or it turns but the bolt won’t move.
Or maybe the lock is just old. Twenty, thirty years old. Original to the house. It’s worn out and it’s time to replace it before you get locked out or locked in.
We replace worn-out residential and commercial locks throughout Philadelphia. Old Philly rowhomes especially—those locks have been turning for decades and they eventually give up.
Moving into new home or apartment
You just moved into a new place. The locks work, but they’re old. You have no idea how many previous tenants or owners had keys. You have no idea who made copies.
Smart move: replace the locks. Fresh start, full control over who has keys to your new home. For complete security when moving in, you might also consider our lock rekeying service which is more affordable if the locks are in decent shape.
Landlord finally replacing old locks
You’ve been asking your landlord to replace the ancient locks in your rental. They finally agreed. Or you’re the landlord and you know those locks need replacing before you rent to new tenants.
We work with Philadelphia landlords and tenants all the time. Replace worn locks, upgrade security, make the property safer for everyone.
Upgrading security level
Your current locks work fine, but they’re basic. You want better security. High-security cylinders, reinforced strikes, Grade 1 deadbolts instead of the builder-grade junk that’s there now.
This is proactive security improvement. Good thinking. We replace standard locks with high-security options regularly. For comprehensive security upgrades including smart locks, check our lock installation service.
Lock is damaged but door wasn’t forced
Sometimes locks get damaged through normal wear, accidents, or weather. Corrosion from years of Philly winters. Mechanism broke internally. Someone over-forced the key and broke something inside.
The door is fine. The frame is fine. Just the lock is damaged and needs replacement.
Key broke off inside and damaged the lock
Key snapped in the lock. We tried to extract it but the lock mechanism was damaged in the process. Or the key broke because the lock was already failing internally.
Either way, extraction alone won’t fix it. The lock needs replacement. We handle this situation frequently.
Need a professional lock replacement? Give us a call
Whatever your locksmith needs, we’ve got you covered.
Lock replacement vs lock installation: What's the difference?
People use these terms interchangeably but they’re different services.
Lock replacement: You have a lock now. It’s broken, damaged, worn out, or you want it replaced for security reasons. We remove the old lock and install a new one in the same location. Same door, new lock. This is what most people need most of the time.
Lock installation: You’re adding locks where there weren’t any before. Or you’re doing major upgrades—adding smart locks, changing from knob sets to deadbolts, installing access control systems. More complex, often involves more door modification.
If you currently have a lock and you need a new one, that’s a replacement. If you’re not sure which service you need, call us. We’ll figure it out together and quote you correctly.
For new installations and major upgrades, visit our lock installation page.
Common lock problems that mean you need replacement
Not sure if your lock needs replacement or just repair? Here are problems that usually require replacement:
Lock won’t turn at all: Key goes in but won’t turn, or turns only partway. The internal mechanism is likely broken or severely worn.
Bolt won’t extend or retract: You turn the key but the bolt doesn’t move properly. Internal linkage is broken.
Lock feels loose or wobbly: Hardware is coming apart, mounting is failing, or internal components are worn.
Key gets stuck every time: Not just sticky—actually stuck and hard to remove. The cylinder is worn or damaged internally.
Lock was forced or damaged: Any lock that’s been forced, pried, or damaged in a break-in attempt should be replaced, even if it still sort of works.
Cylinder is cracked or broken: Visible damage to the lock cylinder. Definitely needs replacement.
Lock is severely rusted or corroded: Philly weather is hard on exterior locks. Deep corrosion means the lock needs replacing.
Parts are missing or broken off: If pieces of the lock are literally missing or broken off, replacement is the answer.
Lock is ancient and parts aren’t available: Some old locks can’t be repaired because parts don’t exist anymore. Time to upgrade.
Not sure if your lock can be repaired or needs replacement? We assess honestly when we arrive. Sometimes repair works. Sometimes replacement is necessary. We’ll tell you which and why.
When to replace vs when to repair your lock
Replace your lock when:
- Internal mechanism is broken or severely worn
- Lock was damaged in a break-in or forced entry attempt
- Cylinder is cracked, broken, or visibly damaged
- Lock is ancient and parts aren’t available anymore
- You want to upgrade security level significantly
- Lock has been malfunctioning for a while and repair attempts haven’t worked
- Cost of repair would be close to cost of replacement
Repair or maintain instead when:
- Lock just needs cleaning and lubrication
- Minor adjustment will fix the problem
- It’s a key issue, not a lock issue
- Hardware is good quality, relatively new, and repairable
- Simple parts replacement will restore function
Honest assessment: We make money either way repair or replace. But we’d rather tell you the truth and have you as a long-term customer than oversell you once. When we arrive, we assess your lock and give you honest recommendations based on what will actually solve your problem.
Our lock replacement services in Philadelphia
Residential lock replacement
We replace locks in Philadelphia homes of all types: rowhomes, apartments, condos, twins, single family houses.
Deadbolt replacement: Your front door deadbolt is the most important lock in your home. We replace worn-out, broken, or low-security deadbolts with quality hardware. Single cylinder, double cylinder, high-security options.
Entry lockset replacement: Full handle sets, knob sets, lever sets with integrated locks. We replace complete entry hardware when needed.
Back door and side door locks: Not just the front door. We replace locks on all exterior doors.
Patio and sliding door locks: Those sliding door locks fail constantly. We replace them with hardware that actually works and provides security.
Old mortise lock replacement: South Philly rowhomes, older properties throughout Philadelphia—many still have original mortise locks from 50, 80, 100 years ago. We replace old mortise locks with modern secure hardware while preserving door aesthetics when possible.
For comprehensive residential locksmith services, visit our residential locksmith page.
Commercial lock replacement
Businesses throughout Philadelphia need lock replacement for different reasons: wear from heavy use, damage from break-in attempts, security upgrades.
Commercial-grade deadbolts: Heavy-duty locks rated for high traffic and daily abuse. Built to last and resist forced entry.
Storefront lock replacement: Retail shops, restaurants, offices. We replace damaged or worn storefront locks with commercial-grade hardware.
Office and suite locks: Individual office doors, suite entries, interior doors. We replace commercial lock hardware throughout buildings.
Panic bar and exit hardware: Required for commercial egress, these fail over time. We replace it to maintain code compliance and security.
After-break-in emergency replacement: Someone forced your business lock. We replace immediately so you can reopen and operate securely.
For complete commercial security solutions, check our commercial locksmith services.
Emergency lock replacement
Sometimes you can’t wait. The lock broke at an inconvenient time. Someone damaged your lock. You need it replaced now, not next week.
Same day service: Most Philadelphia locations we can reach on the same day, often within a few hours.
After-break-in priority: Lock damaged in a break-in or attempt gets priority dispatch. We understand the urgency.
We bring hardware with us: Our vans carry quality replacement locks for most common applications. We show up ready to replace immediately.
Fast but done right: Emergency doesn’t mean sloppy. We replace quickly and we do it correctly.
Smart and electronic lock replacement
Replacing standard locks with smart options, or replacing failed smart locks with new ones.
Smart deadbolt replacement: WiFi or Bluetooth-controlled locks that replace standard deadbolts. Phone control, remote access, temporary codes for guests.
Keypad lock replacement: No key needed, just punch your code. We replace standard locks with keypad systems.
Failed smart lock replacement: Your smart lock stopped working properly. We replace it with new functioning hardware and set up the system.
Compatibility assessment: Not all doors can handle all smart locks. We assess and recommend what will actually work on your door.
The lock replacement process: What to expect
We arrive and assess your situation
When we get to your location: home, business, wherever, we inspect your current lock, the door, the frame, and discuss what happened and what you need.
We assess damage if applicable. We check the door and frame condition. We determine what type of replacement lock will work best.
We recommend replacement options
Based on your door, your security needs, and your budget, we recommend replacement lock options. We explain differences in security levels, features, and pricing.
Quality hardware, not cheap junk: We use recognized brands: Schlage, Kwikset, Yale, Medeco. Locks that will actually last and provide real security.
Matched to your door: Not every lock works on every door. We recommend hardware that will actually fit and function properly on your specific door.
Your choice: We give you options at different price points. You decide what makes sense for your situation.
We remove the old lock and install the new one
We remove your old lock carefully. We inspect the door prep and the strike plate on the frame. We install the new lock properly aligned and secure.
We make sure the strike plate is positioned correctly so the bolt catches every time. We test operations multiple times. We adjust as needed until everything works perfectly smoothly.
If your door or frame has damage that affects lock function, we let you know and discuss options.
We provide new keys and test everything
For standard locks, we provide new keys. Usually 2 to 3 keys come with the lock, sometimes more depending on the model.
We test the new lock extensively. Lock and unlock from both sides multiple times. Make sure the bolt extends and retracts smoothly. Verify the door closes and latches properly. Make sure keys work perfectly.
We clean up and explain maintenance
We clean up any debris from the installation. We provide receipt and warranty information. We explain any maintenance your new lock might need and answer questions.
If you replaced one lock, we can discuss whether other locks on your property should be replaced or upgraded soon.
What does lock replacement cost in Philadelphia?
Factors that affect price
Type of lock: Basic deadbolt replacement costs less than high-security cylinder or smart lock replacement.
Hardware quality: Better locks cost more but last longer and provide better security. We use quality hardware, not cheap imports that fail quickly.
Door and frame condition: If your door or frame needs repair or modification to accept the new lock, that adds to the job.
Labor complexity: Some replacements are straightforward. Others involve complications—damaged frames, non-standard doors, access issues.
Emergency or urgent service: Need it done today, right now? Emergency service may cost more than scheduled service.
Number of locks: Replacing multiple locks usually gets you better per-lock pricing.
Typical price ranges for Philadelphia
Standard residential deadbolt replacement: $150 to $250 including quality deadbolt hardware and installation labor.
Entry lockset replacement: $175 to $300 for complete handle/knob set with integrated lock.
High-security cylinder replacement: $200 to $350 for high-security deadbolts with restricted keyways.
Commercial lock replacement: $200 to $400 depending on hardware grade and commercial requirements.
Smart lock replacement: $300 to $600+ depending on model, features, and installation complexity.
Emergency same-day replacement: May add $50 to $100 for urgent service and priority dispatch.
Mortise lock replacement: $250 to $450 depending on door type and whether we’re preserving historic hardware aesthetics.
These prices include removing the old lock, installing the new hardware, testing, and providing new keys. We quote before we start. You know the cost upfront.
Why quality replacement is worth it
Cheap locks fail. Improper installation causes problems. You’ll be calling someone again in six months or a year.
Quality locks properly installed last year. They provide actual security. They work smoothly. They don’t fail at inconvenient times.
You’re already paying for the service call and labor. The difference in hardware cost between cheap and quality is often only $30 to $50. But the difference in performance and longevity is huge.
We install quality hardware because we want you as a long-term customer, not a repeat customer because your cheap lock failed.
Why choose Ben Locksmith for lock replacement in Philadelphia
We know Philadelphia properties
We work across every Philadelphia neighborhood. We know South Philly rowhomes with century-old doors. We know Center City high-rises with modern systems. We know Northeast apartments and Northwest single-family homes.
We know what locks work in old Philly construction. We know how to handle original doors that are slightly warped or settled. We come prepared for what we’ll actually encounter.
We stock quality hardware
Our vans carry replacement locks for most common situations. Residential deadbolts, commercial hardware, various finishes and styles. We show up ready to replace immediately in most cases.
When we need to order specific hardware, we’re honest about timing. But most residential and commercial replacements we can do the same day with hardware we have.
Fast response across Philadelphia
Most locations in Philadelphia reach within 30 to 45 minutes during normal hours. Emergency situations get priority dispatch.
We know the city. We know traffic patterns. We know the fastest routes to reach you quickly.
Honest assessment and recommendations
If your lock can be repaired instead of replaced, we’ll tell you. We’d rather save you money and earn your trust than oversell a replacement you don’t need.
When replacement is necessary, we explain why and give you options at different price points. You decide what makes sense.
Licensed, insured, and professional
We’re licensed in Pennsylvania and fully insured. Our technicians are trained and background-checked. Professional service from a legitimate locksmith business.
We stand behind our work. If there’s an issue because of how we installed the lock, we come back and make it right.
Service areas: lock replacement service across Philadelphia
We provide mobile lock replacement services throughout Philadelphia and nearby areas:
Center City and downtown Philadelphia
Apartments and condos in Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, Midtown Village, Logan Square. 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.
Northeast Philadelphia
Mayfair, Frankford, Tacony, Bustleton, Fox Chase. Single family homes, twins, apartment complexes. Residential neighborhoods where we help families get back inside.
Northwest Philadelphia
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
How long does lock replacement take?
Most single lock replacements take 30 to 60 minutes from arrival to completion. Multiple locks or complex situations take longer. We give you an estimated timeframe when we arrive and assess the job.
Can you replace locks the same day?
Yes, usually. We carry common replacement hardware in our vans. Most residential and commercial lock replacements we complete same day. Unusual or specialized hardware might require ordering and a return visit.
Will the new lock match my other locks?
If you want all your locks to match—same brand, same finish, same key—we can do that. We can also rekey multiple locks to work with one key. Let us know what you prefer.
Do you replace smart locks and electronic locks?
Yes. We replace failed smart locks with new ones. We also replace standard locks with smart lock upgrades. We handle the programming and setup.
What if my door or frame is damaged?
We assess door and frame conditions when we arrive. Minor issues we can work with or fix. Major damage might need carpentry work before lock replacement. We’re honest about what your door needs.
Do you warranty your lock replacement work?
Yes. We guarantee our installation work. The lock hardware also comes with manufacturer warranty. If there’s a problem because of our work, we return and fix it.
Can you replace my lock after someone broke in?
Absolutely. We prioritize break-in situations. Call us and we’ll get there as fast as possible to replace damaged locks and restore your security.
What if I'm locked out and the lock needs replacing?
We handle lockouts where the lock is so damaged or broken that we need to replace it to get you back in. We’ll explain the situation and the cost before proceeding. For general lockout service, see our home lockout services.
Need a lock replaced today?
Broken lock? Damaged from break-in? Worn out and finally failed? Don’t wait until it fails completely or compromises your security.
We come to you anywhere in Philadelphia with quality replacement locks. We remove the old lock, install the new one properly, test it thoroughly, and hand you new keys.
Most jobs are done the same day. Emergency situations prioritized.
Available 24/7 for urgent lock replacement needs.
Stop dealing with a broken, damaged, or worn-out lock. Let’s get it replaced today.
Fast response
Average 15-20 minutes response time
Local service
Serving Greater Philadelphia
24/7 Emergency
Always here when you need us