A residential locksmith specializes in exactly that: home lock and key services, from installing new deadbolts to getting you back inside when you're locked out. This guide covers the services available, when to call a professional, and what to expect when you do.
What does a residential locksmith do
A residential locksmith is a professional who specializes in home lock and key services. While commercial locksmiths focus on office buildings and automotive locksmiths work on vehicles, residential locksmiths handle everything related to keeping your house, condo, or apartment secure and accessible.
What kinds of tasks fall under residential locksmith work? Here's what you can expect:
- Lock installation – mounting new deadbolts, knob locks, or electronic locks on entry doors, interior doors, and sliding glass doors
- Rekeying – adjusting the internal pins inside your lock so old keys stop working while keeping the same hardware
- Lockouts – getting you back inside your home quickly without damaging the door or frame
- Repairs and upgrades – fixing worn or broken locks, or swapping out basic hardware for high-security or smart lock options
The key difference between a residential locksmith and a general handyman? Training. A licensed locksmith understands how different lock mechanisms work, which hardware fits your specific door type, and how to install everything so it actually provides the security you're counting on.
Our residential locksmith services
Lock installation
Installing a lock involves more than just screwing hardware into a door. The lock has to align perfectly with the strike plate on the frame, and the door itself has to be the right thickness for the hardware you're using.
We install all types of residential locks, including single-cylinder deadbolts, double-cylinder deadbolts, knob locks, lever handles, and electronic keypads. Brands like Schlage and Kwikset are popular choices because they offer solid durability at reasonable price points. Every installation includes proper strike plate reinforcement, which strengthens the area where the bolt meets the frame—critical since short strike plate screws are often the weak point in kick-resistance tests.
Lock rekeying
Rekeying changes the internal pin configuration inside your lock cylinder. After rekeying, your old keys no longer work, and you receive a fresh set of keys that do.
Here's the important part: rekeying keeps your existing hardware in place. So if you like your current locks and they're in good condition, rekeying gives you new keys without the cost of full replacement. This is a common choice for homeowners who just moved in or lost a key and want peace of mind.
House lockout service
Getting locked out is frustrating, but it happens to almost everyone at some point. Maybe you left your keys on the kitchen counter, or the door closed behind you while you were grabbing the mail.
Our technicians use non-destructive entry techniques to get you back inside. In most cases, there's no damage to your lock, door, or frame. We respond to lockouts across Miami-Dade County with 15–30 minute average arrival times, and we're available nights, weekends, and holidays.
Lock repair
Sometimes a lock just needs attention rather than full replacement. Common problems include:
- Sticking mechanisms that make the key hard to turn
- Worn keys that no longer engage the pins properly
- Misaligned latches that don't catch the strike plate
Our technicians diagnose the issue first. Often, a simple repair or adjustment restores full function without the expense of new hardware.
High-security lock upgrades
Standard locks provide basic protection, but high-security locks add extra layers of defense. These locks feature pick-resistant pins, bump-proof mechanisms, and restricted keyways.
What's a restricted keyway? It means the key blank is patented, so copies can only be made by authorized dealers. You control who gets a duplicate. Brands like Medeco and Mul-T-Lock are well-known in this category and are popular among homeowners who want stronger protection against break-in attempts.
Smart lock installation
Smart locks connect to your home's Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network, allowing you to control your door from your smartphone—part of a market projected to reach $8.1 billion by 2030. You can lock or unlock remotely, create temporary access codes for guests, and receive notifications when someone enters.
Popular brands include Schlage, Yale, August, and Kwikset. Each has different features, so the right choice depends on your priorities, whether that's integration with Alexa, a built-in keypad backup, or a specific aesthetic.
Tip: A smart lock is only as reliable as its installation. Poor mounting or weak Wi-Fi connectivity can create problems that defeat the purpose of upgrading in the first place.
Professional installation ensures your smart lock is physically secure, properly aligned, and configured correctly from day one. Contact 305 Locksmith if you're considering a smart lock upgrade.
Mailbox lock services
Mail theft is a growing concern, and your mailbox lock is often the first line of defense against identity fraud that resulted in $12.7 billion in losses to Americans in 2024. We replace and rekey residential mailbox locks to help protect sensitive documents, checks, and packages from theft.
When to call a residential locksmith
Many homeowners aren't sure when a situation calls for professional help versus a DIY fix. Here are the most common scenarios where calling a licensed locksmith makes sense.
Moving into a new home
You have no way of knowing how many copies of the keys exist. Previous owners, contractors, cleaning services, real estate agents, and neighbors may all have had access at some point.
Rekeying or replacing the locks is one of the first things to consider after closing. It's a relatively quick process that eliminates uncertainty about who can enter your home.
Lost or stolen keys
A missing key is more than an inconvenience. If someone finds your key and figures out where you live, your home becomes vulnerable.
Rekeying eliminates that risk immediately. Once the pins are changed, the lost key becomes useless.
Locked out of your house
Trying to break into your own home often causes more damage than calling a professional. Forcing a door can crack the frame, damage the lock mechanism, or even break the door itself.
Licensed locksmiths have the tools and training to get you inside without causing harm. It's faster, safer, and usually cheaper than repairing DIY damage afterward.
After a break-in or attempted burglary
Even if an intruder didn't get inside, your locks and door frame may be compromised. Visible damage is obvious, but sometimes the internal mechanism is bent or weakened in ways you can't see.
A locksmith can assess the damage, repair or replace affected hardware, and reinforce weak points like the strike plate and door frame.
Upgrading outdated locks
If your locks are difficult to turn, visibly rusted, or more than 10–15 years old, upgrading makes sense. Modern locks offer better security features, smoother operation, and compatibility with smart home systems.
Should you rekey or replace your locks
This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask, and the answer depends on your situation.
| Factor | Rekeying | Replacing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Time | Faster (often under 30 minutes) | Longer |
| Best for | New home, lost keys, same hardware | Damaged locks, style change, security upgrade |
| Hardware | Stays the same | Brand new |
When rekeying makes sense: Your locks are in good condition, but you want new keys. This is the budget-friendly option when security, not aesthetics or hardware condition, is the main concern.
When replacing makes sense: Your locks are damaged, outdated, or you want to upgrade to a different style or security level. Replacement is also the path forward if you're switching to smart locks or high-security hardware.
Residential locksmith pricing in Miami
Pricing varies based on the service, lock type, and time of day. Here's what typically factors into a quote:
- Service call fee – covers the technician's travel to your location
- Labor – time spent diagnosing and completing the work
- Parts and hardware – if new locks, cylinders, or components are needed
- After-hours fees – nights, weekends, and holidays may include additional charges
At 305 Locksmith, we provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees. You'll receive a clear quote before any work begins, so there are no surprises when the job is done.
Why choose 305 Locksmith for your home
Licensed and insured technicians
Every technician on our team is licensed, insured, and background-checked. We're members of ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America), a BBB Accredited Business, and a Google Verified Business with over 10 years of experience serving Miami-Dade County.
15 to 30 minute response time
When you're locked out or dealing with a security issue, waiting around isn't ideal. Our mobile technicians are positioned across Miami-Dade to reach you quickly, often in 15–30 minutes depending on your neighborhood.
Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
You'll know exactly what the job will cost before we start. The price you're quoted is the price you pay.
100 percent satisfaction guarantee
We stand behind our work. If something isn't right, we'll make it right.
Miami neighborhoods we serve
Our mobile locksmith service covers all of Miami-Dade County, including:
No matter where you are in the county, we can reach you quickly.
Need a residential locksmith in Miami?
Locked out? Moving into a new home? Ready to upgrade your locks?
Our licensed technicians are available for fast, professional service across Miami-Dade County. Call (305) 539-0439 for a free estimate, or contact 305 Locksmith today!
FAQs about residential locksmith services
Is it cheaper to call a locksmith or replace the lock myself?
Calling a locksmith is often more cost-effective in the long run. DIY lock installation can lead to misalignment, damaged doors, or hardware that doesn't function properly. A professional ensures the job is done correctly the first time, which avoids the cost of fixing mistakes later.
Do residential locksmiths charge a call-out fee?
Most locksmiths charge a service call fee that covers travel to your location. At 305 Locksmith, this fee is included in your upfront quote along with labor and any parts needed.
How do I verify that a locksmith is licensed in Florida?
Ask for their license number and proof of insurance before any work begins. Reputable locksmiths will provide credentials upfront. Membership in professional associations like ALOA is another good indicator of legitimacy.
Can a locksmith open my door without damaging it?
Yes. Licensed locksmiths are trained in non-destructive entry techniques and can typically unlock your door without harming the lock, door, or frame. This is one of the main advantages of calling a professional rather than attempting to force entry yourself.
How long does it take a locksmith to rekey a house?
Rekeying a standard door lock usually takes 10–15 minutes per lock. A typical home with 3–4 entry points can often be completed in under an hour during a single visit.