Neighbourhood lock and key shop
Run a small shop that cuts keys and sells locks to local homeowners, landlords and businesses.
- C$18k-80k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A small retail unit selling padlocks, deadbolts, door hardware and safes, with a key-cutting counter for house, car and mailbox keys.
Your first three steps
- Visit local hardware stores and locksmiths to see what they charge and what gaps exist
- Ask a lock wholesaler and key machine supplier about starter stock and equipment, and get training on the machines
- Price a small unit on a busy street or near apartment buildings, and check the rules for your province and municipality
Who pays
Homeowners, tenants, landlords, property managers and small businesses nearby.
How it makes money
Per key cut, product sales with a retail markup, and fitting or rekeying jobs where you are qualified and licensed to offer them.
Skills that help
- Operating key-cutting machines
- Knowing lock types and brands
- Friendly customer service
- Basic stock control
Watch out for
- Some provinces, such as British Columbia and Quebec, may license locksmiths and key cutters, so check your provincial regulator
- Commercial general liability and contents insurance
- Check your municipality for business licence and zoning rules for your unit
- Be careful about who you cut restricted or 'do not duplicate' keys for, and ask for ID where needed
- Big hardware stores and self-serve key kiosks compete on price
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to open a lock and key shop in Canada?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $18,000 to $80,000, depending on the unit you lease, your key-cutting equipment, the stock you carry and the fit-out. Getting quotes before signing a lease helps you narrow the range.
How much can a lock and key shop earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $22,000, depending on location, product mix and opening hours. The idea assumes about 35 hours a week at minimum, and big hardware stores and key kiosks compete on price.
Do I need a licence to cut keys or sell locks in Canada?
Some provinces, such as British Columbia and Quebec, may license locksmiths and key cutters, so check your provincial regulator. Also check your municipality's business licence and zoning rules, your insurance, and how to handle restricted keys, asking for ID where needed.
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