Washington DC Homes
Lock Installation in Washington DC
New lock installation for every door type, deadbolts, smart locks, high-security, and multi-point systems
- ✓ Licensed and bonded technicians serving DC homeowners since 2004.
- ✓ Same-day service available on most residential hardware.
- ✓ Every install includes a reinforced 3-inch strike plate.
Credentials
Trusted DC Residential Locksmiths
4.8 Google Rating (200+ Reviews)
DC License No. DC-LCKS-3301
In Washington DC Since 2004
Same-Day Service Available
Licensed in DC and MD
Bonded and Insured
Background-Checked Technicians
Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Yale Stocked
20+ Years in Washington DC
Same-Day Installation Available
11 / 11
Live DC Humans Answer Every Call
No AI triage. No overseas routing. A DC dispatcher picks up within 4 rings.
What We Offer
All Major Brands
Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Yale, August, Level, we install every major residential lock brand.
Smart Lock Ready
We install Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Z-Wave smart locks with proper alignment and connectivity for reliable operation.
Door Prep Included
Need new holes drilled for a deadbolt? Door reinforcement for a heavy lock? We handle all door preparation.
Keyed-Alike Installation
Installing multiple locks? We key them alike so one key opens every door in your home.
Lock Installation in Washington DC
A lock is only as good as its installation. A high-quality deadbolt installed crooked, with short screws, and a misaligned strike plate provides very little actual security. Professional installation ensures the lock functions correctly, the bolt throws fully, and the strike plate is properly anchored.
Types of Locks We Install
- DeadboltsSingle-cylinder (keyed outside, thumb-turn inside) and double-cylinder (keyed both sides)
- Knob & lever locksEntry, passage, and privacy configurations
- Smart locksKeypad, fingerprint, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Z-Wave models
- Mortise locksHeavy-duty multi-function locks common in older DC homes
- Multi-point locksEuropean-style locks that engage at multiple points along the door frame
- High-security locksMedeco, Mul-T-Lock, Schlage Primus, pick and bump resistant
Our Installation Process
- Assess your doorWe check the door material, thickness, edge prep, and frame condition to ensure compatibility with your chosen lock.
- Door preparationIf new holes are needed, we drill precise bore holes and mortise pockets using templates and jig tools.
- Lock installationHardware is mounted with proper alignment. Strike plates are installed with 3-inch screws that anchor into the wall stud, not just the door frame.
- Function testWe test the lock from both sides, verify the bolt throws fully, check key operation, and ensure smooth latching.
- CleanupAll drilling debris and packaging is cleaned up. Your door looks like the lock was always there.
Choosing the Right Lock
| Security Need | Recommended Lock | ANSI Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Basic residential | Kwikset 660 or Schlage B60N | Grade 2 or Grade 1 |
| Family home, exterior | Schlage B60N | Grade 1 |
| High-security / past break-in | Medeco Maxum or Mul-T-Lock | Grade 1+ |
| Smart home integration | Schlage Encode Plus or Yale Assure SL | Grade 2 |
| Historic home (mortise) | Baldwin or Emtek mortise | Varies |
| Rental property (landlord) | Kwikset SmartKey (easy rekey) | Grade 2 |
DC Building Code Considerations
- Single-cylinder deadbolts are required on most exterior doors for fire safety, occupants must be able to exit without a key.
- Double-cylinder deadbolts (keyed from both sides) are restricted on primary exits by DC fire code. We’ll advise if your door qualifies.
- Egress requirementsAll bedrooms must have a means of egress that doesn’t require a key. This affects lock selection on bedroom doors near fire escapes.
- Historic propertiesGeorgetown and Capitol Hill historic districts may require hardware that matches the building’s period. We can source period-appropriate options.
Hardware Comparison
Choosing the Right Deadbolt
| Feature | Single Cylinder | Double Cylinder |
|---|---|---|
| Key requirement | Key outside, thumb-turn inside | Key required from both sides |
| DC fire code | Required on most primary exits | Permitted on glass-panel doors only |
| Best for | Standard exterior doors, front and back | Doors adjacent to glass panels or sidelights |
| Emergency egress | No key needed from inside | Key must be kept accessible near door |
DC Local Locksmith recommends single-cylinder on all primary exits per DC fire code.
Trusted and Certified Installers For
Questions About Your Locks?
We Answer the Phone.
Call or text a photo of your door. A manager reviews the hardware and replies with an exact quote before dispatch.
(202) 830-0706
A Manager Reviews the Photo Before We Dispatch
Text a photo of your door to (202) 830-0706. A manager checks the hardware grade, cylinder type, and bore condition, then confirms a single exact total. No technician rolls until you approve.
(202) 830-07064.8 Google Rating (200+ Reviews)
Rooted in Washington DC
From Capitol Hill rowhouses to Georgetown brownstones, we know DC doors.
(202) 830-0706Common Questions
Lock Installation in Washington DC FAQs
Can you install a deadbolt on a door that doesn't have one?
Yes. We drill the bore hole and mortise pocket for the bolt, install the deadbolt, and install a matching strike plate with 3-inch screws into the wall stud. The door will be as secure as factory-installed.
What lock brand do you recommend?
For standard residential use, Schlage B60N (ANSI Grade 1) is our most recommended deadbolt, excellent security at a reasonable price point. For high-security needs, Medeco Maxum or Mul-T-Lock Hercular provide pick, bump, and drill resistance.
Can you install a smart lock?
Yes. We install all major smart locks, Schlage Encode, Yale Assure, August, Level, Kwikset Halo, and more. We ensure proper door fit, alignment, and connectivity during installation.
Do I need to buy the lock or do you provide it?
Either way works. We carry a selection of locks in our mobile unit for immediate installation. If you've already purchased a lock, we'll install it. If you want options, we'll show you what we have and recommend the best fit.
How is lock installation scoped in DC?
Every installation quote starts with the door, not a rate card. Door material, existing bore holes, lock type, and security grade all change the scope. Text a photo of your door and existing hardware to (202) 830-0706 and a manager will confirm the exact scope and total. No technician is dispatched until you approve the number.
Will the new lock match my existing door hardware?
We carry locks in all standard finishes, satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, polished brass, and satin chrome. We'll match your existing hardware as closely as possible.
Are you licensed and insured for residential work in DC?
Yes. DC Local Locksmith holds a current DC and MD license, is fully bonded, and carries general liability insurance. Documentation is available on request.
Do you offer after-hours service for home lockouts?
Yes. Our dispatch line is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. Quoted before dispatch.
Which lock brands do you install and service?
We install and service Schlage, Yale, Kwikset, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and most ANSI-rated residential hardware. We can supply hardware or install what you provide.
Should I rekey or replace my locks after moving into a new home?
Rekeying is the faster option when the hardware is in good condition and serves most change-of-occupancy needs. Replacement is warranted when hardware is worn, damaged, or below ANSI Grade 1 standard. We confirm which path fits your hardware during the quote.
"They installed a Medeco deadbolt on a Saturday afternoon. No issues, no upsell."
Karen, Capitol Hill - Deadbolt Installation
Quote Process
Send a Photo. Get the Exact Quote.
Before any technician is dispatched, a manager reviews the photos you send and confirms a single total. That confirmed total is the number on the invoice. Send a photo of the lock, door, or vehicle and a manager will reply with the exact amount before anyone is scheduled. The quote is the total.
Text a Photo
(202) 830-0706
A manager reviews the photo and confirms your exact total before anyone is sent.
Email a Photo
manager@dclocallocksmith.com
Attach your photo. A manager reviews it and confirms the total before dispatch.
Contact Form
Attach via Form
Describe the job and attach a photo. A manager confirms your exact total before any technician is scheduled.
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Ready to Secure Your Door?
Need a New Lock Installed?
Licensed and bonded in Washington DC since 2004. Exact quote before dispatch, every time.