Smart Lock Installation Cost

By Anthony Limpert, Supercanic, Riverside County, California

Author Source EEAT Authors · Anthony's Author Page

What the Lock Costs

Fixr lists these prices for the lock alone. A keypad lock is 100 to 250 dollars. An RFID lock is 100 to 300. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth locks are 200 to 300. Z-Wave locks are 250 to 400, and biometric fingerprint locks are 250 to 450.

Brand moves the price too. Fixr puts Kwikset at 100 to 250 dollars, Schlage at 100 to 400, Yale at 175 to 350 and August at 200 to 350.

This Old House, using Homewyse data, puts an electronic lock at 144 to 226 dollars. That fits a mid range keypad or Wi-Fi deadbolt.

What Installation Costs

Fixr puts the labor at 50 to 100 dollars on a standard door, and a full installed project at 250 to 400 dollars, with an average near 300. Simple models that fit over an existing lock can be done for about 150. High end biometric systems tied into a security system can reach 1,200.

This Old House puts labor at 106 to 291 dollars. The higher end covers doors that need more work, like new holes, a new strike or adjusting the door so the bolt does not bind.

A locksmith who comes to you also adds the service call. Ask whether it is part of the quote.

When to Fit It Yourself

Many smart deadbolts are made for owners to fit. This Old House says most homeowners can install an electronic deadbolt in about an hour, if the door already has standard deadbolt holes.

Pay a pro when the door has no deadbolt hole, the bolt sticks, the door is metal or glass, or the lock has to tie into an alarm or access system.

A lock that binds will drain its batteries fast. If the old deadbolt was hard to turn, fix the door first.

Costs People Forget

Some locks need a hub or bridge for Wi-Fi or voice control. Some features need a paid plan. Check both before you buy.

Batteries need changing. Pick a lock with a physical key or an outside power point, so a dead battery does not lock you out.

The lock does not make the door stronger. Use a deadbolt with a good grade and a strike plate held by long screws. Our guide on whether smart locks are worth it covers the trade offs, and choosing a deadbolt covers grades.

What to Ask on the Phone

Tell them the lock brand and model, and whether your door has a deadbolt now. Ask for one total that includes the call out and labor.

Ask if they will set up the app, codes and any hub, or only fit the hardware.

Ask if the price changes if the door needs work. A good installer will tell you before they start.

Where These Numbers Come From

Sources. These ranges come from public price pages we read on Fixr, This Old House, which uses Homewyse data, checked against our locksmith cost guide.