Why You Should Change Your Locks When You Move In

Moving into a new home is exciting and hectic. Amid the packing and unpacking, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important jobs on the list: changing the locks. You have no way of knowing how many keys to your new home are still out there. This guide covers why changing or rekeying your locks should be one of the first things you do, and how to go about it.

Why Change Your Locks?

Unknown Keys and Unauthorized Access

One of the primary reasons for changing the locks when moving into a new home is to eliminate the threat of unauthorized access. You never know who might have a spare key, whether it’s a former owner, a past tenant, a contractor, a real estate agent or a neighbor who once watered the plants. Any of them could get in without your knowledge. Changing the locks means you know exactly who has a key to your home.

Peace of Mind From Day One

A new home should feel safe the first night you sleep there. Old keys that were copied, lost or never returned are an easy way in for someone who should not have one. New locks or a rekey close that door for good and let you settle in with confidence.

Rekey or Replace?

You have two options. Rekeying changes the pins inside your existing locks so the old keys no longer work. You keep the hardware you have, and a locksmith can usually set every door in the house to work with one new key. Replacing the locks makes sense if the hardware is worn, damaged or simply not strong enough, or if you want to upgrade to a sturdier deadbolt or a smart lock with keyless entry. A locksmith can look at your doors and tell you which option fits.

How to Get It Done

Choose a Trusted Local Locksmith

Look for a locksmith with a strong local reputation. Read customer reviews, and make sure the company is licensed. A mobile locksmith comes to your home, so you do not have to take doors or locks anywhere.

Cover Every Exterior Door

Schedule a time to rekey or replace the locks on every exterior door, including the back door, the door from the garage into the house and any side or basement doors. These are the doors people forget, and they are just as easy to open with an old key.

Renters: Check With Your Landlord First

If you rent, read your lease and get your landlord’s permission before changing any locks. Many landlords are happy to have the locks rekeyed between tenants, and some will arrange it for you.

Think About Safety, Not Just Security

The right locks keep people out without trapping anyone in. Make sure everyone in the house can unlock exterior doors quickly from the inside in an emergency such as a fire.

Keep Track of the New Keys

Once the work is done, make a list of who has a key or an access code. Only give spare keys to people you fully trust, and get them back when they no longer need them.

Changing the locks should be a top priority when moving into a new home. It is a simple step that protects your family and everything you own. Don’t put it off. Make changing the locks part of your move-in checklist.

All In Locksmith

Just moved into a new home in Greenville, Wilson, Goldsboro or anywhere in our eastern North Carolina service area? All In Locksmith is ready to help. We’ll rekey or replace your locks and help you choose the right hardware for your home and family, on your schedule. Call us today at 919-901-3231.