Moving into a new home is exciting, but it’s also a crucial time to ensure your safety and peace of mind. When it comes to home security, your first line of defense is your locks, and one of the smartest moves you can make is to rekey them. Rekeying is a quick, cost-effective way to secure your new space, and it can make a world of difference in who has access to your home. Here are five essential tips for securing your new home and why rekeying your locks should be at the top of your to-do list.
1. Rekey Immediately After Moving In
When moving into a new house, you may receive keys from previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, or even family members of the sellers. But who else has a copy of that key? Rekeying all exterior locks eliminates any lingering access that past owners or unknown individuals might have. Rekeying means changing the internal pins within the lock so old keys no longer work. It’s fast, budget-friendly, and provides immediate peace of mind, allowing you to start fresh in your new home.
2. Change Locks for Added Security
If your new home’s locks appear old, damaged, or are lower-grade models, upgrading may be a better option than rekeying. High-security deadbolts and smart locks are designed to provide stronger protection and resist techniques like lock-picking or bumping. If you’re not sure about the quality of your current locks, a locksmith can assess and advise on whether rekeying or replacing is best for your home.
3. Secure All Entry Points – Not Just Front and Back Doors
While most homeowners focus on the main entry points, don’t forget to secure additional access points like garage doors, side entrances, and even basement doors. If your home has a detached garage or a shed with valuables inside, consider rekeying these locks as well. Securing all possible entry points makes it significantly harder for unwanted visitors to enter your property undetected.
4. Consider Smart Locks for Convenience and Control
Smart locks are increasingly popular for their ease of use and added features. They let you lock and unlock your home using a smartphone, provide unique access codes for different people, and even allow you to track entry times. If your new home already has a smart lock installed, it’s essential to reset it to factory settings to remove previous codes and set up your own. Even if it doesn’t, investing in one can be a great way to increase security while also making home access more convenient.
5. Schedule Regular Security Assessments
Security needs evolve over time, and it’s beneficial to periodically review the safety of your locks and entry points. A locksmith can perform an inspection and spot vulnerabilities you might not have noticed, like weakened frames, poorly installed locks, or doors that need reinforcement. Scheduling a security check annually can help you stay ahead of potential threats, address wear-and-tear issues, and keep your home as secure as possible.
Why Rekeying is So Important
Rekeying locks is one of the most cost-effective ways to secure your home after a move. Since rekeying involves changing only the internal components, it’s less expensive than replacing entire locksets while still giving you full control over access to your home. A locksmith can typically complete the job quickly and efficiently, ensuring your home is secured from the very start.
Final Thoughts
Taking proactive steps to secure your new home is crucial for ensuring peace of mind. Rekeying locks, upgrading where necessary, and staying aware of all potential entry points help create a safe and comfortable environment. Whether you're moving into a newly built property or an older home, investing in these essential security measures is worth the time and effort.
If you’re ready to rekey or need guidance on the best locks for your new home, our team is here to help! We offer professional locksmith services designed to enhance your security and help you feel at ease in your new space.