Locksmith FAQ — Key Tec LLC | Montgomery County, MD

Question 1

Is Key Tec LLC a licensed locksmith company?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Key Tec LLC holds Maryland Locksmith License #711 and carries full liability insurance. Maryland law requires all locksmiths to be licensed by the state. Always ask to see a locksmith's license before allowing them to work on your property — it protects you from fraud and unqualified work.

Question 2

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve all of Montgomery County, MD and Washington, DC. This includes Rockville, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Silver Spring, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, North Bethesda, Kensington, Derwood, and surrounding communities. Call us at +1 240 355 1027 to confirm service availability at your location.

Question 3

Are you available 24 hours a day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Key Tec LLC is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year including holidays. Lockouts and security emergencies don't follow business hours, and neither do we. Call +1 240 355 1027 any time.

Question 4

How much does a locksmith service call cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies by service type, time of day, and the specific work required. We provide a clear estimate before starting any work — no surprise charges. Residential lockouts, car lockouts, rekeying, and lock replacements all have different price points. Call us for a quote specific to your situation.

Question 5

Will you ask for ID before opening my lock?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and this is a sign of a reputable locksmith. We verify ownership or residency before opening any lock. For homes, we typically ask for a photo ID with your address. For vehicles, we ask for your registration or title. This protects you and ensures we're not opening a lock for someone who doesn't have the right to access it.

Question 6

I'm locked out of my house. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Call Key Tec LLC at +1 240 355 1027. We respond 24/7 across Montgomery County and Washington, DC. Do not attempt to force the door or break a window — this causes expensive damage and can create safety hazards. Our technicians use non-destructive entry techniques that leave your door and lock hardware intact in most cases.

Question 7

I locked my keys in my car. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Car lockouts are one of our most common calls. We come to your location — whether you're in a parking lot, on the side of the road, or at home — and open your vehicle without damage. We serve all makes and models including newer vehicles with push-button ignitions and smart key systems. Call +1 240 355 1027.

Question 8

We're locked out of our business. How fast can you respond?

Accepted Answer

We prioritize commercial lockout calls because every minute of downtime costs your business money. Response times vary by location and time of day. We serve businesses throughout Montgomery County and Washington, DC. Call +1 240 355 1027 and we'll dispatch a technician to your location as quickly as possible.

Question 9

Will you have to drill my lock to get me in?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Our technicians are trained in non-destructive entry techniques — lock picking and bypass methods that open the lock without damaging it. Drilling is a last resort used only when a lock is damaged, seized, or when non-destructive methods aren't possible. We'll always tell you upfront if drilling is necessary and explain why.

Question 10

What's the difference between rekeying and replacing a lock?

Accepted Answer

Rekeying changes the internal pin configuration of your existing lock so that old keys no longer work — only new ones do. The lock hardware stays in place. Replacing a lock means removing the entire lock and installing new hardware. Rekeying is faster and less expensive, and it's just as effective for security when your existing lock is in good condition. We recommend rekeying when you move, lose a key, or want to revoke someone's access.

Question 11

Should I rekey my locks when I move into a new home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. When you move into a home — even new construction — you don't know how many copies of the keys exist or who has them. Previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, and neighbors may all have copies. Rekeying immediately after moving in is one of the most important security steps you can take. It's affordable and takes less than an hour for most homes.

Question 12

How much does rekeying cost?

Accepted Answer

Rekeying is one of the most affordable locksmith services. The cost depends on the number of locks and the lock brand. It's significantly less expensive than replacing lock hardware. Call us at +1 240 355 1027 for a quote based on your specific situation.

Question 13

Can you set up a master key system for my building or business?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We design and install master key systems for offices, apartment buildings, retail stores, medical facilities, and other commercial properties throughout Montgomery County and Washington, DC. A master key system lets you control access across your entire facility — managers or property owners hold a master key while individual staff carry keys that only open specific areas.

Question 14

I lost all my car keys. Can you make a new one?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even if you've lost every key to your vehicle, we can generate a new key from scratch using your VIN and proof of ownership. We cut and program replacement keys on-site for most makes and models — including transponder keys, remote head keys, and push-to-start proximity keys. You'll need to show your vehicle registration or title.

Question 15

What is a transponder key and why does it cost more to replace?

Accepted Answer

A transponder key contains a small microchip that communicates with your car's immobilizer system. When you insert the key, the car reads the chip — if it's not recognized, the engine won't start even if the key is cut correctly. Replacing a transponder key requires both cutting the key blade AND programming the chip to your specific vehicle. This requires specialized equipment, which is why it costs more than a standard key.

Question 16

Should I go to the dealer or a locksmith for car key replacement?

Accepted Answer

For most vehicles, a mobile automotive locksmith is faster, more convenient, and less expensive than the dealer. We come to your location — no tow truck needed. Dealer key replacement can cost $200–$500 or more and may take days. We handle most key replacements on-site the same day. The exception is some newer luxury or European vehicles with proprietary systems that require dealer-specific programming.

Question 17

My key broke off in the ignition. Can you fix it?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Broken key extraction is a common service. We remove the broken key fragment from the ignition or door lock without damaging the cylinder, then cut a replacement key. Do not try to extract a broken key yourself with pliers or tweezers — this often pushes the fragment deeper and makes extraction harder and more expensive.

Question 18

Do you install smart locks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install and configure keypad locks, Bluetooth locks, and Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks from leading brands including Schlage, Yale, Kwikset, and August. Smart locks let you lock and unlock remotely, create temporary access codes for guests or contractors, and integrate with home automation systems like Google Home and Amazon Alexa. They're a popular upgrade in Bethesda, Rockville, and other Montgomery County communities.

Question 19

Can you assess my home's security and recommend improvements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer home security assessments for Montgomery County and Washington, DC residents. We evaluate your exterior door locks, door frames and strike plates, sliding doors and windows, and garage entry points. We provide a written summary of findings and a clear quote for any recommended work — no pressure, no upselling. Call +1 240 355 1027 to schedule.

Question 20

Do you install access control systems for businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install electronic access control systems for businesses throughout Montgomery County and Washington, DC. These systems use key cards, fobs, PIN codes, or biometrics to control entry and create an audit trail of who accessed which areas and when. Access can be revoked instantly when an employee leaves — no rekeying required. We serve offices, medical facilities, retail stores, warehouses, and more.

Question 21

What is a Grade 1 deadbolt and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

Deadbolts are graded 1 through 3 by ANSI/BHMA, with Grade 1 being the highest security. Grade 1 deadbolts feature a hardened steel bolt, anti-pick and anti-drill protection, and a longer bolt throw. Most builder-grade homes come with Grade 3 locks, which offer minimal security. Upgrading to a Grade 1 deadbolt is one of the most cost-effective security improvements you can make. We recommend and install Grade 1 hardware from Schlage, Medeco, and Mul-T-Lock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got Locksmith Questions? We Have Answers.

General Locksmith Services

Lockouts

Rekeying & Lock Changes

Car Keys & Automotive

Home & Business Security

Still Have Questions? Call Us Anytime.