How Much Does It Cost to Install a Smart Lock?
This article explains how much smart locks cost by lock type. It also outlines how much a professional handyman charges to install a smart lock.
We've all been there — you search your bag or pocket frantically for your keys, only to discover you're locked out. If this tale of woe sounds all too familiar, a smart lock could be a great solution. Smart locks allow you to ditch your keys while improving your home security, but they're usually more expensive than standard front door locks.
So, how much does a smart lock cost? Let's explore how these nifty devices work and how much installing one in your home costs.
What Is a Smart Lock?
Smart locks have integrated Bluetooth connectivity or built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to unlock your door from your smartphone or other handheld device. Many smart locks offer both connection types, opening your door automatically when your smartphone gets near and letting you unlock your home from anywhere via the internet.
There are several potential advantages to smart locks. These gadgets enable keyless access to your home, so you won't need to worry about forgetting your keys. They also let you monitor people coming and going through your front door and set entrance restrictions. Installing a smart lock could be particularly beneficial if you need to let people, such as pet sitters or cleaners, inside your home while you're away.
How Much Do Smart Locks Cost?
How much a smart lock costs depends on the type of lock. Most homeowners spend between $100 and $450 (CAD 137 and CAD 618) per smart lock, not including professional installation fees.
The cheapest type of smart locks is usually keypad entry models. These basic smart locks allow you to access your home without a key by punching in a numerical code. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi- or Bluetooth-enabled units typically cost between $200 and $300 (CAD 275 and CAD 412) each.
High-tech smart locks with advanced features are usually more expensive. You could consider installing a Z-Wave smart lock if you want to integrate your locks into a larger smart home system. Z-Wave models connect to your system using radio frequency, and you can control them using your smartphone. You'll usually need a smart home hub and a virtual assistant system, such as Alexa or Google Assistant. Expect to pay between $250 and $400 (CAD 343 and CAD 549) per lock, excluding installation costs.
Biometric smart locks are generally the most expensive option, costing between $250 and $450 (CAD 343 and CAD 618) per unit. These locks have biometric screens that let you open your front door using your fingerprint. They're usually compatible with smart home systems, and most have a backup entry method, such as a keypad, for emergencies.
Most smart locks come with a remote control as standard or include a free app to install on your smartphone. If your unit doesn't have a remote, you may need to purchase one separately. Adding a remote control typically increases your costs by around $25 to $50 (CAD 34 to CAD 69).
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Smart Lock Installed?
You don't always need a professional to install a smart lock because many units are suitable for DIY installation. Therefore, you won't necessarily need to spend more than the price of the lock itself, and some models are compatible with preexisting deadbolts.
Alternatively, you could pay a professional handyman to install the lock for you. How much this costs depends on the complexity of the installation and whether you need additional work, such as new wiring. Generally, you should expect to pay a handyman $50 to $100 (CAD 69 to CAD 137) per lock. Therefore, the cost per door is around $150 to $550 (CAD 206 to CAD 755), including the lock and installation.
