Why People Wait Too Long to Replace a Faulty Lock — And What It Costs Them

Ever jiggled your key in the door and told yourself, “I’ll fix it next week”?
You’re not alone—but you might be setting yourself up for an expensive (and stressful) emergency.

At Pro On The Go Locksmith, we see this every day across Tampa: clients who ignored a faulty lock until it locked them out, left their home exposed, or cost them hundreds in rushed service calls.

Common Reasons People Delay Lock Replacements

1. “It Still Works… Kind Of.”

Most faulty locks don’t fail instantly. They get sticky, loose, or unpredictable—but still sort of function. That false sense of security is what gets people in trouble.

2. Time & Inconvenience

Scheduling a lock replacement feels like a chore. But compare that to standing outside your home at 11 PM—or worse, after a break-in. Prevention is always less disruptive.

3. Underestimating the Risk

Many Tampa residents don’t realize how quickly a worn lock can become a complete failure. All it takes is one more turn… and you’re locked out.

4. Misjudging the Cost

Some assume locksmiths charge a fortune for non-emergency work. In reality, a simple lock replacement can be quick, affordable, and far cheaper than emergency service.

What Delaying a Faulty Lock Can Actually Cost You

• Emergency Lockout Fee: $125–$250+

• Missed Work / Late Appointments

• Security Risk: A weak lock invites burglars.

• Stress & Time: Replacing a lock takes 20–30 minutes. Getting locked out might take hours.

Real Story from West Tampa:
We helped a family locked out after ignoring their back door lock for months. They ended up breaking a window to get in before calling us—costing over $600 in total damage and repairs. A $99 lock replacement could’ve solved it weeks earlier.

🔧Signs Your Lock Needs Replacing

• Key turns inconsistently or gets stuck

• Lock feels loose or wobbly

• You need to jiggle or force the key

• Lock has visible rust or damage

• You’ve had multiple tenants or roommates

Don’t Wait Until It Breaks

If your lock shows any signs of wear, don’t wait. Whether it’s your front door, side gate, or business entry—your security is too important.

Get it checked. Replace it early. It’s faster, cheaper, and safer.

Need a Lock Replaced? Book Now in 30 Seconds

We offer fast, non-emergency service for all lock replacements in Tampa:

- Residential
- Commercial
- High-security
- Smart locks
- Same-day availability

Click here to schedule online or
Call us now at (813) 534-2911

Serving All of Tampa & Beyond

From Ybor City to Westchase, we’re trusted all across Hillsborough County.
Emergency or routine — we’re on the way.

FAQ

How do I know if my lock needs replacing or just rekeying?
If it’s functioning well but you want to change access (e.g., after a move), rekeying is fine. If it’s damaged or unreliable, replacement is safer.

What’s the average cost of a lock replacement in Tampa?
Standard residential locks typically range from $89–$150, depending on the type and brand.

Do you offer upgraded lock options?
Yes! We install deadbolts, smart locks, keypad systems, and more — all fully tested for Tampa’s climate and wear.