Question 1

What services does National Lock & Key provide?

Accepted Answer

We're a full-service locksmith covering homes, businesses, and vehicles. Whether you're locked out, need car keys duplicated or made from scratch, want locks changed, installed, rekeyed or repaired, need smart lock setup, or require safe opening services—we can help you. Our licensed technicians come to you with professional equipment to solve your lock and key problems quickly and efficiently.

Question 2

Why hire a professional locksmith instead of DIY?

Accepted Answer

While some simple tasks can be done yourself, hiring a professional locksmith ensures the job is done correctly the first time without damaging your property. We have specialized tools, training, and 15 years of experience to handle even complex lock issues safely. DIY attempts may lead to broken locks, damaged doors, or security vulnerabilities that cost more to fix later.

Question 3

Can you cut keys at my location?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We're a mobile locksmith service, which means we bring professional key-cutting equipment directly to you. We can cut most residential, commercial, and vehicle keys on-site. If you have an unusual or high-security key, just let us know when you call and we'll confirm we can handle it before coming out.

Question 4

What is rekeying and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A rekey changes the existing combination of a cylinder or lock so that the current keys stop working and a new key operates it. The hardware stays the same. It is cheaper and faster than replacing the entire lock and is often used when moving into a new home or after losing keys.

Question 5

Should I change the locks when I buy a new home?

Accepted Answer

You don't need to replace the locks—rekeying is faster and more affordable. We change the combination or reconfigure your locks so current keys no longer work, and you get brand new keys. This prevents previous owners, contractors, realtors, or anyone else with old keys from accessing your home. If your locks are in good condition, rekeying costs a fraction of full replacement and provides the same security benefit.

Question 6

Can I rekey the locks in my rental property?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you always rekey your locks when moving to a new home. Check with your landlord or property management company first—most are willing to allow rekeying for security. If approved, we'll rekey all locks and provide extra keys: one set for you and one for your landlord. This way, you have peace of mind knowing previous tenants can't access your space, and your landlord still has emergency access. It's an affordable way to ensure your rental security.

Question 7

When should I replace or rekey my locks?

Accepted Answer

Replace or rekey your locks if they're sticking, jamming, or not locking properly; you've just purchased a new home; you've lost your keys; you've experienced a break-in; a roommate or employee has left; or you've given out keys to contractors, cleaners, or service workers. Rekeying is usually the best option unless your locks are damaged or you want to upgrade to smart locks or high-security systems.

Question 8

Should all my door locks use the same key?

Accepted Answer

For most homes, having all your locks operate with one key ('keying alike') is much more convenient—you won't fumble through multiple keys every time you come home. This is our most popular residential request. However, if you want separate keys for different areas (like keeping a garage or shed separate), we can set that up too—or create a master key that opens everything while individual keys only open specific locks.

Question 9

What should I do if my key breaks off inside the lock?

Accepted Answer

Don't try to extract it yourself! Call us right away at (571) 449-6495. If you have the broken pieces, save them—they help us cut a new key. We have specialized extraction tools to remove broken keys without damaging your lock. In most cases, we can save the lock, rekey it, and provide you with new keys—all during the same visit.

Question 10

Can you duplicate keys marked 'DO NOT DUPLICATE'?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the key type. Standard keys stamped 'DO NOT DUPLICATE' can usually still be copied—the stamp is more of a request than a legal restriction. However, high-security and restricted keys (like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, or ASSA) have patent protection and require authorization to duplicate. If you have a restricted key, we'll need to verify you're authorized to make copies before we can duplicate it.

Question 11

What should I do if I locked my keys in my car?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry—we've got you covered! First, stay in a safe location (inside a nearby store or building if possible). Call us at (571) 449-6495, and we'll dispatch a technician to your location right away. We'll unlock your vehicle quickly without damaging your car. This is one of our most common calls, and we handle it every day.

Question 12

What should I do if my key is stuck in the ignition?

Accepted Answer

Stop trying to move or force the key—this can cause expensive damage to your ignition cylinder. Call us immediately at (571) 449-6495. The more you wiggle or twist a stuck key, the more damage you risk. We have specialized tools to extract stuck keys safely. If your key is damaged, we can cut a new one on-site. Calling us now will save you from a costly ignition replacement later.

Question 13

What is a master key system?

Accepted Answer

A master key system lets you use one 'master' key to open multiple locks, while each lock also has its own individual 'change key.' This is ideal for businesses, apartment buildings, or larger homes where you need both overall access and individual lock control. For example, a property manager might have a master key that opens all units, while each tenant has a change key that only opens their specific apartment.

Question 14

Do you install keyless entry systems for businesses?

Accepted Answer

We install commercial-grade keyless entry systems designed for high-traffic use. Options include card readers, key fobs, PIN code keypads, biometric scanners, and push-button systems. These systems are perfect for controlling employee access, tracking entry logs, and eliminating the hassle of managing physical keys. We'll help you choose the right system for your business needs and budget.

Question 15

Can you help me change my safe combination?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can help you change the combination of your safe. We recommend changing your safe combination regularly for security. When choosing a new code, avoid obvious numbers like birthdays, anniversaries, or simple sequences (1234, 1111, etc.). If you're not sure what combination to choose, we'll help you create something memorable yet secure. We service both mechanical dial safes and electronic keypad safes.

Contact Us

Prefer a phone call? Give us a call at (571) 449-6495