Question 1

How quickly can you respond to a lockout in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Our average response time across Brooklyn is 15–25 minutes. We keep mobile locksmiths stationed in multiple neighborhoods, so whether you're in Williamsburg, Bay Ridge, or Marine Park, we're rarely more than 20 minutes away. For neighborhoods closest to our shop on Quentin Road, response is often under 15 minutes.

Question 2

How much does a lock change cost in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

A standard residential lock change starts at $125, which includes labor and Grade 1 hardware (Schlage B60N or equivalent). Upgrading to Medeco or Mul-T-Lock high-security hardware runs $250–$400 all-in. Commercial lock changes start at $125–$195 depending on lock type. We give you an exact quote before any work begins — no surprise charges.

Question 3

Can you come the same day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We handle same-day appointments for lock changes, rekeying, smart lock installations, and most residential and commercial work. Emergency lockouts are responded to immediately, 24 hours a day. Call (929) 791-5757 and we'll confirm a window right away.

Question 4

What lock brands do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We service and install all major brands: Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Abloy, Baldwin, Yale, and Defiant. For smart locks, we install and program August, Yale Assure, Schlage Encode, Kwikset Halo, and Ultraloq. We carry the most common Grade 1 and Grade 2 hardware on our trucks.

Question 5

Are your locksmiths licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Locksmith Now holds NYC DCA License #2113111, issued by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. All technicians are also licensed individually by the New York State Department of State. We carry full general liability insurance — you can request a certificate of insurance at any time.

Question 6

Do you offer 24/7 emergency service?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our mobile emergency line is active 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year including holidays. Emergency lockout, break-in repair, and urgent lock replacement are always available. Call (929) 791-5757 any time.

Question 7

Should I rekey or replace my locks?

Accepted Answer

Rekeying is the right choice if the lock is in good working condition and you just need to invalidate old keys — it costs $35–$55 per cylinder and takes about 10 minutes per lock. Replace the lock if it's worn, damaged, a low-security Grade 3, or if you want to upgrade to a smart lock or high-security cylinder. We'll give you an honest recommendation on the spot.

Question 8

Can you install smart locks and keyless entry?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install all leading smart locks including August Wi-Fi (4th Gen), Yale Assure Lock 2, Schlage Encode Plus, Kwikset Halo Touch, and Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro. We handle the full install, app setup, and access code configuration. Most smart lock installs take 30–45 minutes.

Question 9

Can you help with an insurance claim after a break-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide a detailed itemized receipt documenting all work performed — door frame repair, lock replacement, hardware installed — which insurance adjusters accept for property claims. We can also write a brief security assessment report if your insurer requires one.

Question 10

How long does a full apartment rekey take?

Accepted Answer

A standard apartment with front door, back door, and mailbox takes about 20–35 minutes to rekey completely. A building-wide rekey (multiple units) depends on the number of cylinders, but we typically do 8–12 units in a single visit. We bring all the necessary pinning tools and key blanks with us.

Question 11

How do I know if my lock needs to be repaired or replaced?

Accepted Answer

If your key is hard to turn, the lock sticks, or the cylinder wobbles, it likely needs servicing or the cylinder replaced — which is less expensive than a full lock swap. If the lock body itself is cracked, the bolt doesn't extend fully, or it's a Grade 3 builder-grade lock with no ANSI rating, replacement is the better investment. We'll diagnose it for free when we arrive.

Question 12

What is the lifespan of a deadbolt?

Accepted Answer

A quality Grade 1 deadbolt (Schlage, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) lasts 7–15 years with normal use. Cheap builder-grade Grade 3 hardware often wears out in 3–5 years, especially on high-traffic doors. Signs it's time to replace: the key is hard to insert, the bolt doesn't retract smoothly, or you can visibly see wear on the cylinder face.

Question 13

What do strange noises from my lock mean?

Accepted Answer

A grinding noise usually means debris in the keyway or a worn cylinder — cleaning and lubricating with graphite powder often fixes this. A clicking or popping sound when turning the key suggests a worn driver pin or broken spring inside the cylinder. A rattling deadbolt suggests a loose mounting screw or a strike plate that's misaligned. All of these are quick, inexpensive fixes.

Question 14

What should I do if my door lock is damaged after a break-in?

Accepted Answer

Do not try to force a bent or damaged lock — you can make it worse or get locked out entirely. Call us immediately. We carry replacement cylinders, strike plates, and door frame repair hardware on our trucks. Most post-break-in door repairs are completed in one visit. Document the damage with photos before we arrive for your insurance claim.

Question 15

My door is stuck open — what should I do right now?

Accepted Answer

If your door is stuck open after a break-in or a lock failure, your home or business is unsecured. Call us immediately at (929) 791-5757 — this is a priority response. While you wait, stay with the property if safe to do so, and do not leave it unattended. We carry replacement locks and door hardware on every truck and can secure the door on the first visit.

Question 16

My lock won't close — is it the lock or the door?

Accepted Answer

A lock that won't engage is usually caused by one of three things: the bolt is misaligned with the strike plate (common after seasonal door swelling), the latch mechanism is worn or broken, or the door frame has shifted. Try lubricating the bolt with graphite and check if the strike plate hole lines up. If neither helps, call us — misalignment and latch replacement are fast, inexpensive fixes.

Question 17

My door fell off the track or the frame is damaged — is it safe?

Accepted Answer

A door that is off its hinges or has a compromised frame is a real safety risk — it can fall and injure someone, and it leaves your space exposed. Do not try to rehang a heavy door yourself. Call us right away. We carry door hardware, hinge sets, and frame reinforcement materials. Until we arrive, brace the door in place if possible.

Question 18

A vehicle hit my garage or storefront door — should I repair or replace?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the extent of the damage. If the door frame and rough opening are intact and only the door itself is damaged, repair is usually possible. If the frame, threshold, or surrounding wall is compromised, replacement is safer and more cost-effective long-term. We assess on-site and give you a written estimate before any work starts.

Question 19

Do you charge more for after-hours emergency calls?

Accepted Answer

We charge a standard service call fee for all after-hours calls (nights, weekends, and holidays). We quote the total cost — service fee plus parts and labor — before we begin any work. There are no hidden fees. The exact after-hours rate will be quoted when you call; it is typically $25–$50 above the standard call fee.

Question 20

What is the difference between Schlage and Kwikset?

Accepted Answer

Schlage B-series deadbolts are ANSI Grade 1 — the highest residential grade — with a 6-pin cylinder that resists picking and bumping significantly better than standard hardware. Kwikset's base SmartKey line is Grade 2, but their Obsidian and Premis smart locks are solid. For security, Schlage is the better choice; for smart lock features and price, Kwikset Halo and Halo Touch are competitive. We install both and will recommend based on your door and budget.

Question 21

Is Medeco worth the extra cost?

Accepted Answer

For high-risk applications — ground-floor apartments, businesses with valuable inventory, or buildings in higher-crime areas — yes. Medeco M3 and Medeco3 cylinders use a patented three-axis pin system that makes them extremely resistant to picking, drilling, and bump attacks. Keys are patented and cannot be duplicated without authorization. The cost is $90–$140 per cylinder versus $30–$55 for a standard Grade 1 Schlage. Many insurance policies also offer a discount for certified high-security hardware.

Question 22

Can you repair my existing smart lock, or do I need a new one?

Accepted Answer

Many smart lock issues are firmware or battery related — not hardware failures. If your lock is unresponsive, first replace the batteries (AA or 9V depending on model) and reset the lock per the manufacturer's instructions. If it still fails, the motor or PCB may be faulty. We can diagnose on-site; if the part is available, we can repair it. If repair exceeds 60% of replacement cost, we'll tell you and recommend replacement models.

Question 23

Can I add a smart lock to my existing door without changing the whole lock?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Smart locks like the August Wi-Fi (4th Gen) retrofit over your existing deadbolt's interior thumb-turn — no new holes, no exterior changes. This preserves your existing key cylinder and works with your current keys. Other smart locks like the Schlage Encode replace the full deadbolt but fit standard door prep holes (2-1/8" bore). We bring both retrofit and full-replacement options and can advise on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pricing & Response Times

Lock Repairs & Diagnosis

Emergencies & Door Problems

Lock Brands & Technology

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