Deadbolt Installation in Perth — Costs, Types & What to Ask

A quality deadbolt is the single most effective lock upgrade for a Perth home. Here's everything you need to know before calling a locksmith.

Single vs Double Cylinder Deadbolts

A single-cylinder deadbolt has a keyed cylinder on the outside and a thumb-turn on the inside — you need a key to enter from outside, but can exit freely from inside. This is the right choice for most Perth homes. A double-cylinder deadbolt requires a key to open from both sides. This provides additional security where glass is near the lock (preventing someone from breaking glass and reaching the thumb-turn), but creates a fire exit risk. Check with your local council and insurer before installing double-cylinder deadbolts.

Grade Ratings — What They Mean

Australian Standard AS 4145 grades locks from 1 (highest security) to 6 (basic). Grade 1 deadbolts resist kick-in attacks, picking, drilling, and key duplication. Builder-grade locks supplied with new Perth homes are typically Grade 5 or 6. For any external door, a Grade 1 or 2 deadbolt is the recommended upgrade. Your locksmith should be able to show you the grade rating of any lock they recommend.

Deadbolt Installation Process

Installing a deadbolt requires drilling through the door (for the lock cylinder) and into the door jamb (for the strike plate). A quality installation uses a reinforced strike plate with 75mm+ screws that reach the structural stud behind the door frame — not just the timber trim. This makes a huge difference to kick-in resistance. A locksmith should take 30–60 minutes per door for a quality installation.

Deadbolt Installation Costs in Perth

Supply and installation of a standard Grade 2 deadbolt: $180–$280. High-security Grade 1 deadbolt: $280–$450. If you're supplying your own lock, labour only is typically $80–$150 per lock. Multiple-door discounts are common — ask for a package price if you're upgrading more than one door.