Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get new keys when moving to a new house?

Yes – you can never be sure who has access to your new home: contractor, neighbor, real estate agents, relatives of previous owners, cleaning service crews – the list may go on. Again, rather than taking chances and risking your home security, we recommend rekeying all locks once you move in.

Are your estimates free?

Yes, at Kensington Locksmith Co., we provide free estimates for commercial and residential projects.

If I am locked out, how quickly can you come to help?

Our response time to lockouts within the service area is usually 20-30 minutes.

Why should I use a professional locksmith company?

A professional locksmith has the equipment, skills, and experience to help you resolve any security and access-related issues quickly and efficiently. A reputable and trusted locksmith company has a strict code of ethics and business conduct that protects the security of your home and place of business.

If my key is difficult to turn, should I force the key until it turns?

Never try to turn the key with force. Doing it will likely lead to the key breaking off inside the keyway. In most cases, a professional locksmith can help solve the problem without damaging your lock and key.

What does it mean to “rekey locks”?

Lock rekeying means changing the configuration of the pins (tumblers) inside the lock cylinder so that the lock works only with a new set of keys. This is a cost-efficient way to prevent unauthorized entry. Rekeying locks is recommended when moving to a new house, after a tenant moves out, or if the keys are lost.

How long should I call ahead to schedule an appointment?

We recommend calling 2-3 days in advance. However, same-day and emergency services are also available.

I don’t want to give keys to my employees/tenants. Can you install keyless locks?

Yes, we can install keyless electronic locks in your home or business. Call us for more information to determine what type of keyless lock is right for you.

I locked my keys inside my car. Can you help?

Yes! Our emergency locksmith technician will come to your location and unlock the car. We usually arrive in 10-30 minutes within our service area.

Can I use one key for all locks in my house?

Yes, it is possible. However, we may have to replace some hardware, so all locks have the same keyway.

My key broke off inside the lock. What do I do?

If the key breaks off and gets stuck inside the keyway, call us for a “key extraction service.” Our locksmith technician will remove the stuck key and make sure your lock works fine. Remember to request some extra keys.

Why is it important to call only a licensed locksmith?

A locksmith’s license is required to operate a locksmith company or shop in Maryland. To get a license, an applicant must submit to a mandatory criminal history background check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

What kind of payments do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other NFC payments, as well as cash and checks.

Will my lock still work after you open it?

Yes, lock picking or opening a vehicle door does not damage the lock. Unless the lock is damaged or needs to be drilled, in this case, the lock will need to be replaced.

Can you make copies of or program car keys?

No, unfortunately, we don’t offer car key services at this time.

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