Question 1

Why did the key I copied at a hardware store not work?

Accepted Answer

Hardware store key machines use worn blanks and optical tracers that follow the profile of your original key — but your original key may itself be worn. A worn key cuts a worn copy. Additionally, hardware stores stock a limited range of blanks and often substitute a "close enough" blank that is slightly off. A professional locksmith uses a dedicated code cutter calibrated to the lock manufacturer's original specifications, not to the profile of your worn key. We cut to spec, not to your worn original.

Question 2

What are restricted keys and can you duplicate them?

Accepted Answer

Restricted keys — used in Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Abloy, and Schlage Primus systems — have a patented keyway profile that licensed locksmiths are authorized to cut but hardware stores are not. The system works like this: the manufacturer licenses the keyway to authorized dealers, and each key is tied to an owner authorization card. We can duplicate restricted keys with the original key and your authorization card. If you do not have the authorization card (usually given when the lock was first installed), we may be able to contact the original supplier to verify ownership.

Question 3

My landlord says I cannot make copies of my apartment key — is that legal in NYC?

Accepted Answer

This is a common lease provision. Under New York Real Property Law, landlords can include lease clauses prohibiting key duplication, and many leases require that any copies be made only by the landlord's authorized locksmith. If your lease contains this language, violating it could technically be a lease breach. That said, NYC Administrative Code §27-2043 also gives tenants certain rights around their own security. If you are unsure whether your specific lease allows duplication, check the lease language directly.

Question 4

Can you cut a key without the original?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we can cut a key from the lock itself (impressioning or decoding the lock cylinder) or from the lock's manufacturer code if you have the key code (usually stamped on the original key or in documentation provided when the lock was first installed). Key-by-code is the most accurate method and produces a factory-spec key. This is more expensive than copying an existing key but is useful for lost keys or situations where the existing copy is too worn to copy accurately.

Question 5

How much does key duplication cost in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Standard house and apartment keys: $5–$10 per copy. Medeco and Mul-T-Lock restricted keys: $25–$65 per copy (includes authorization verification). Abloy disc detainer keys: $35–$75. Basic (non-transponder) car key cutting: $10–$25 blade cut only. Transponder car key programming is a separate service — see our Auto Locksmith page for car key pricing.

Key Type	Common Brands	Price	Notes
Standard residential keys	Schlage, Kwikset, Weiser, Yale, Corbin	$5–$10	Same-day, in-stock blanks
Office & commercial keys	Arrow, Corbin Russwin, Sargent, Best	$8–$15	Professional-grade cuts
Padlock keys	Master Lock, American Lock, Abus	$5–$10	Standard and rekeyable
Mailbox cam lock keys	CompX, Olympus, CCL	$8–$12	Apartment mailbox specialists
Restricted / high-security	Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Abloy	$25–$75	Authorization card required
Basic car key blade	All major makes	$10–$25	Physical cut only; chip programming separate

Key Duplication in Brooklyn, NY — Standard, High-Security & Restricted Keys

Why Hardware Store Key Copies Often Do Not Work

Key Types & Pricing

Key Services Available

Key Duplication FAQ — Brooklyn Key Cutting Questions

Related Services

Need Keys Cut in Brooklyn?

What type of service do you need?