THE WORK, EXPLAINED
Start with the condition.
Understand the scope.
A mortise-lock assessment checks the case, springs, levers and key operation. Ask whether worn components can be serviced and matched, or whether a compatible replacement case is needed. Confirm how existing door joinery will be preserved.
What may be involved
- case springs and followers
- lever packs
- skeleton and bit key blanks
- period-pattern replacement case if needed
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 / San José
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

