Clear & Upfront
Key Replacement Canberra
Lost, stolen, broken or worn house keys, sorted on-site. Lost your house keys, had them stolen, or snapped one in the lock? Night & Day Locksmiths replaces residential keys across Canberra and the ACT, even when you no longer have the original. Our mobile locksmiths come to your home, check the lock and recommend the right fix: a new key, a rekey or a full lock replacement.
Upfront Quotes
Clear pricing before we start
MLAA-Accredited
Licensed, insured & police-checked
True 24/7 Support
No overnight call-out surprises
Local Since 1979
45+ years serving the ACT
Can You Make a Replacement Key Without the Original?
Yes, for most standard residential locks. When there is no key left to copy, our locksmith works from the lock itself. Depending on the lock, we will:
- Decode the lock and cut a new key to match it
- Remove the cylinder and cut a key to its pins
- Rekey the lock to a new key, so the lost key stops working at the same time
Restricted and registered keys are different. These can only be replaced with authority from the registered key holder or nominated signatory, and blanks may need to be ordered. See Restricted Key Systems.
Because a replacement without the original gives someone access to a home, we always confirm proof of occupancy or authority before cutting a key.
Proof of Occupancy or Authority
Before we make a key without the original, we need to see:
Photo ID, such as a driver licence or passport, plus one document linking you to the address, such as:
- A current lease or tenancy agreement
- A rates notice or property title
- A recent utility bill
- Settlement or contract of sale documents for new owners
Additional requirements:
- Tenants: we may need consent from your landlord or property manager before rekeying or replacing a lock. Read Can Tenants Change Locks? ACT Rental Rules.
- Landlords and property managers: written authority for the property. See Real Estate Locksmith Canberra.
- Acting for someone else: written authority from the owner or occupant, plus your own ID.
If your ID is locked inside, we can gain entry first and check your documents once you are inside, before cutting any keys.
Replacement Key, Rekey or Lock Replacement?
The right fix depends on what happened to the key and whether anyone else could use it.
| Situation | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Key worn, bent or cracked, but you have it | Replacement key | The lock is secure; you only need a reliable key |
| Key snapped, lock still sound | Extraction, then replacement key | We remove the broken piece and cut a new key |
| Key lost at home, no sign anyone else has it | Replacement key or rekey | A new key restores access; rekeying adds peace of mind |
| Keys lost in public, or with your address | Rekey | Old keys stop working, existing hardware stays |
| Keys stolen, or taken in a break-in | Rekey or lock replacement | Old keys must never work again |
| Lock worn, damaged or forced | Lock replacement | A new key will not fix a failing lock |
| Ex-partner, tenant or tradie still holds keys | Rekey | Removes their access without new hardware |
| Want a stronger lock anyway | Lock replacement or upgrade | Fix the key problem and improve security at once |
Our advice in plain terms: if there is any chance your lost or stolen key could be linked to your address, do not just get a new key. Rekey. A standard rekey is typically $55 per cylinder plus the call-out fee, and it is usually much cheaper than replacing locks.
Lost Keys
Lost keys are the most common call we get. If you have a spare at home, we may only need to cut copies (see Key Cutting Canberra). If every key is gone, we attend, make a new key from the lock, and advise whether to rekey.
Stolen Keys
If your keys were stolen with your wallet, bag or car, assume someone can find your address. We recommend rekeying every lock the stolen key opens as soon as possible. If you are locked out, our Emergency Locksmith service runs 24/7.
Broken Keys
A key snapped in the lock needs careful extraction so the mechanism is not damaged. Once removed, we check the lock still works properly and cut a new key. If the lock was damaged, we will recommend a repair or replacement.
Damaged and Worn Keys
Bent, cracked or worn keys put strain on your lock and can snap without warning. Replacing them early is cheaper than an emergency call-out later. Where the key is too worn to copy accurately, we cut to code or decode the lock.
Is Key Replacement Mobile or By Appointment?
Key replacement without the original is a mobile service. The lock stays at your property, so our locksmith comes to you. Our vans carry key cutting machines and common blanks to finish most jobs on the spot.
If you still have a worn or bent key and only need a fresh copy, you can also book a time at our Mawson workshop, which operates by appointment only.
How to Book a Key Replacement
- Call 02 6290 1938. Tell us what happened, which locks are affected and your suburb.
- Get a clear quote. We confirm the price or price range before anyone is dispatched.
- Locksmith attends. We assess the lock and confirm the best fix.
- Proof checked. We confirm your ID and occupancy or authority before cutting any keys.
- Work completed. New keys cut and tested, or locks rekeyed or replaced.
- Itemised invoice. A clear summary of labour and parts.
How Long Does It Take?
Most standard residential key replacements and rekeys are completed in one visit. Our mobile locksmiths are often on-site within the hour for urgent jobs. Turnaround can be longer when:
- The lock is restricted or high-security and authority or blanks must be arranged
- A broken key is jammed or the lock has been damaged
- Several locks need to be rekeyed to one key
- The lock needs replacing and a specific product must be sourced
What Affects the Price?
- Time of call-out: daytime call-outs are typically $110 to $150; after-hours, weekend and public holiday call-outs typically $200 to $350 (inc. GST)
- Fix required: a new key costs less than a rekey, and a rekey costs less than a new lock
- Number of locks: rekeying several cylinders in one visit reduces the per-lock cost
- Lock type: restricted, high-security and smart locks cost more
- Lock condition: broken key extraction or damaged locks add labour
- Location: outer areas and NSW border towns may include travel
You get the price before we start. See our full Pricing Guide. A 10% pensioner discount is available.
Why Choose Night & Day Locksmiths
- Family owned and serving Canberra since 1979
- MLAA member #9452 and ACT Licence 17501550
- Police-checked, insured technicians
- True 24/7 mobile service across the ACT and surrounds
- Upfront quotes, itemised invoices, no hidden fees
- 3-month workmanship warranty; products covered by manufacturer’s warranty (normally 12 months)
For our full range of home lock services, visit Locksmith Canberra.
Lost or broken house keys? Call 02 6290 1938, 24/7.
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