A: Thanks for your thoughtful question, Jenny. YES, a cylinder change and a re-key are the same thing. They are synonymous for taking out the center core of the door lock and replacing it with a new core that fits a new key. The old key will not work on the new center. It’s a handy way to keep the look of your existing locks, while having the added security of a new key.

Q: I’m a condo owner, have pretty good tenants, but from time to time, I have to evict a tenant and change rekeys the locks. Do you provide that service? Thomas, Palo Alto.

A: ABSOLUTELY! Thomas, call us the same day, or the day before and we can send a technician to meet the sheriff at your property. After we open the door, we can re-key the locks on the spot. No wait time. You can feel safe to know that the ex-tenant cannot get in with their old key.

Q: HELP!!!! I have a crazy roommate who keeps stealing from me and having crazy people over! Can I kick her out and change the locks? Anonymous, Campbell

A: We’re sorry to hear that. If you own the house, check the laws on removing people from your house…then yes, we can send a technician over to re-key your home. If you rent the home, talk to your landlord about how to get the roommate out of the place. Then, have your landlord contact us, and we’ll be happy to send someone out to re-key the house. The owner of the house must authorize this service. Hope this helps!

If you just moved in, need someone out, or need to change the keys (rekey) to a lock cylinder, we can help! Call elitelock-smith anytime and we’ll come to provide expert cylinder changes at any hour. Your safety and security is our goal and we love our customers!!!