Smart lock installation vs repair: which do you need
Digital and smart locks cover two quite different jobs that get bundled together under one category page: putting in a new lock on a door that has never had one (or replacing an old mechanical lock with a digital one), and fixing an existing smart lock that is malfunctioning, whether that is a dead battery, unresponsive keypad, app pairing issue, or motor failure.
- Installation jobs involve matching the lock to your door type (HDB gate, main door, glass door, or condo door) and sometimes drilling new holes or adjusting the door frame
- Repair jobs range from simple battery and firmware fixes to full mechanism replacement when the motor or latch fails
- Some locksmiths specialise more in one side than the other, so it helps to say upfront which job you need when calling
If your lock is under manufacturer warranty, check whether repair should go through the brand first before calling an independent locksmith.
What it costs
Installation cost depends on the lock model, door type, and whether extra hardware like a strike plate or door closer is needed. Repairs vary by fault: a battery or software issue is a quick, low-cost fix, while a replacement motor or main board pushes the price closer to a partial reinstall. Ask whether quotes include the lock itself or labour only.
Top 3 by our score
Ranked from our published scoring of public Google reviews for digital & smart lock specialist.
- 1. My Digital Lock (Yishun Northpoint City)955.0★ · 1706 reviews
- 2. My Digital Lock Pte Ltd (Yishun) Number 1 Digital Lock in Singapore (HDB Door/Gate/ Hotel Mattress945.0★ · 44558 reviews
- 3. My Digital Lock934.9★ · 624 reviews
FAQ
- Can any locksmith install any brand of smart lock?
- Most can install common brands sold in Singapore, but some locksmiths are authorised dealers for specific brands and may offer better warranty support for those.
- My smart lock beeps or won't respond, is that a repair or a new lock?
- Usually a repair. Battery drain, sensor faults and keypad issues are common and often fixable without replacing the whole unit.
- Do I need to change my door for a digital lock install?
- Sometimes minor adjustments are needed, especially on older HDB doors or gates, but a locksmith can assess this during a site visit or from photos.