Locksmith service in Washington, DC
Keypads and smart locks in DC
A keypad replaces keys with codes you can change, which helps when roommates and dog walkers come and go. Fixr and This Old House publish separate ranges for the lock and the labor; both are in the table below.
One DC locksmith business gives its name and the total before any work. Look up a DC license ยท Who pays us
Who it suits
- A rowhouse with a basement unit, where codes beat handing out keys.
- Owners who rent the place out part of the year.
- Anyone who wants to stop copying keys for each new dog walker.
What it costs
| Job | Published range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Smart lock | $50 to $350 hardware, about $50 labor | Fixr, Jan 2025 |
| Smart lock | $144 to $226 hardware, $106 to $291 labor | This Old House, Mar 2026 |
Check before you buy
- Door thickness and the bore. Many smart deadbolts fit a standard bored hole. A mortise door needs a model made for mortise locks, or more work.
- Condo or apartment rules. Buildings may restrict hardware on doors facing a hallway, or require a key or code on file.
- Batteries and a backup. Pick a model with a key or an outside power contact for when the batteries die.
Change the codes when the people change, the same way you would rekey after a move. The same goes for any lockbox by the door.
Questions people in DC ask
Can I install a smart lock in my DC rental?
Ask the landlord first. Most leases require permission for new locks and a way for the landlord to get in for emergencies. Some landlords allow it if you put the old lock back when you leave.