Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but amid the excitement, it’s crucial to prioritise your security. One of the most important steps you should take is to re-key or change the locks on your new home. Here’s why this simple yet essential task should be at the top of your moving checklist.
1. Control Over Who Has Access
When you move into a new home, you have no way of knowing how many people have had access to your keys. Previous owners, tenants, real estate agents, contractors, and even neighbors might still have copies. Re-keying or changing the locks ensures that only you and your trusted family members have access to your home.
2. Enhanced Security
Old locks can be vulnerable due to wear and tear or outdated technology. Upgrading to new, more secure locks can significantly enhance the security of your home. Modern locks come with advanced features that provide better protection against picking, bumping, and other forms of break-ins.
3. Peace of Mind
Knowing that you are the only one with keys to your home provides peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing that no unauthorized person can gain entry, which is particularly important if you have children or live alone.
4. Preventing Unauthorized Entry
If your new home was previously occupied, there’s always a risk that someone with a key might attempt to enter without your permission. Re-keying or changing the locks is a straightforward way to eliminate this risk and ensure that only those you trust have access.
5. Insurance Requirements
Some home insurance policies require that you change the locks when you move into a new home. Failing to do so could potentially void your coverage in the event of a break-in. Always check with your insurance provider to ensure you meet all requirements for coverage.
6. Addressing Wear and Tear
Locks can degrade over time due to constant use and exposure to the elements. If the locks in your new home are old or showing signs of wear, changing them is a good idea to ensure they function properly and provide adequate security.
7. Customizing Security to Your Needs
Re-keying or changing the locks allows you to customize the security of your new home to fit your needs. You can choose high-security locks, smart locks, or other advanced locking mechanisms that offer features like keyless entry, remote access, and integration with home security systems.
8. Situational Changes
In some cases, you might move into a home where the locks have been recently re-keyed. However, if you lose a key or experience a security breach, re-keying or changing the locks again can quickly restore your peace of mind and secure your home.
Re-keying vs. Changing Locks: What’s the Difference?
Re-keying
Re-keying involves altering the internal mechanisms of a lock so that it works with a new key. This process is usually quicker and less expensive than changing the locks entirely. It’s a good option if the existing locks are in good condition and you simply want to ensure old keys no longer work.
Changing Locks
Changing locks means replacing the entire lock mechanism. This is the best choice if the existing locks are old, damaged, or if you want to upgrade to more secure or technologically advanced locks.
When to Call a Professional Locksmith
While DIY options are available, hiring a professional locksmith is often the best choice. A locksmith can ensure that the job is done correctly, recommend the best locks for your needs, and provide valuable advice on enhancing your home’s security.
Conclusion
Re-keying or changing the locks on your new home is a critical step in ensuring your security. It provides control over who has access, enhances overall safety, and gives you peace of mind. Whether you choose to re-key or change the locks, prioritising this task will help you protect your new investment and enjoy your new home with confidence.
