THE WORK, EXPLAINED
Start with the condition.
Understand the scope.
Rekeying suitability depends on the existing cylinders and the key arrangement required. Discuss which entries need to share a key, whether the hardware is compatible and whether restricted or master-key arrangements affect the work. Compare the complete rekeying and replacement proposals, including new keys and checks of the selected entries.
What may be involved
- rekeying pin kits
- plug follower
- key gauge
- fresh key blanks
Ask the provider to distinguish existing parts to inspect, proposed replacements, and tools, materials or reports included in the service. Confirm the work and exclusions after assessment; this list does not mean that every item will be supplied or replaced.
LOCAL RESEARCH / Los Gatos
Local context
The Department of Consumer Affairs runs a public licence search that covers the professions it licenses, including locksmith companies. It shows whether a licence is current or expired and whether it has been subject to discipline such as suspension or revocation. Look the licence number up yourself rather than relying on a number quoted over the phone. A search result is a record of licence status, not a judgement about the work proposed for your property.
Source ↗Planning your work
California licenses locksmith companies through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, part of the Department of Consumer Affairs. The Bureau describes a locksmith as a business that installs, repairs, opens or modifies locks, or originates keys for locks, and says someone who simply duplicates an existing key is not considered a locksmith. Ask any provider for its licence details before work starts. This is a statewide licensing reference and says nothing about an individual company’s current standing.
Source ↗Area-wide context does not establish the condition of your property or equipment.
Before the visit
Tell us the lock type, your location and whether you still have a working key.
Service illustration · not a completed customer project

