Moving into a New Home? Re-keying is Essential – Here’s Why
Posted on 10th, Feb 2025
Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone. It’s a fresh start, a chance to personalize your space, and build new memories. Amidst the whirlwind of packing, unpacking, and settling in, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps.
One of the most important, yet often forgotten, tasks is re-keying your locks. While it might seem like an unnecessary expense, re-keying your new home’s locks is an absolutely essential step for ensuring your safety and peace of mind.
This comprehensive guide explains why re-keying is so vital and walks you through the process.
1. The Unknown History of Your New Locks: Who Has the Keys?
Think about it: how many people could potentially have keys to your new home? The previous owners, of course, but what about their family members, friends, neighbors, contractors, real estate agents, or even previous tenants? It’s impossible to know for sure who has copies of the keys, and that’s a significant security risk. Even if the previous owners seem trustworthy, you can’t be certain that all keys have been returned. Re-keying eliminates this uncertainty and gives you complete control over who has access to your property.
2. Protecting Your Family and Belongings: A First Line of Defense
Your home is your sanctuary, a place where you should feel safe and secure. Re-keying your locks is the first line of defense against potential intruders. Knowing that only you and the people you trust have keys to your home provides invaluable peace of mind. It’s a proactive measure that protects your family, your belongings, and your sense of security. Don’t leave your safety to chance; re-keying is a small investment that offers significant protection.
3. Preventing Unauthorized Access: Maintaining Control
Even if you trust the previous owners, there’s always a possibility that someone else could have a key. A disgruntled former employee, a neighbor with ulterior motives, or even a stranger who found a lost key could gain access to your home if the locks haven’t been re-keyed. Re-keying gives you complete control over who has access to your property, preventing unauthorized entry and protecting you from potential threats.
4. Ensuring Insurance Coverage: Meeting Requirements
Some insurance policies may require you to re-key your locks after moving into a new home to maintain coverage. Check with your insurance provider to see if this is a requirement. Even if it’s not mandatory, re-keying demonstrates your commitment to security and could be beneficial in the event of a claim.
5. Updating Your Security: A Chance to Improve
Moving into a new home is a great opportunity to assess and upgrade your overall security. While re-keying is essential, you might also consider other security measures, such as:
- Upgrading Locks: Consider installing high-security locks, deadbolts, or smart locks for enhanced protection.
- Installing a Security System: A comprehensive security system with alarms, sensors, and cameras can provide an extra layer of security.
- Improving Lighting: Ensure that all entrances and outdoor areas are well-lit to deter potential intruders.
- Reinforcing Doors and Windows: Strengthen your doors and windows with reinforced frames, security film, or window locks.
6. The Re-keying Process: What to Expect
Re-keying a lock involves changing the internal pins of the lock cylinder so that only a new set of keys will work. The old keys will no longer be functional. This process can be done on-site by a qualified locksmith and is typically much more affordable than replacing the entire lock.
Here’s a general overview of the re-keying process:
- Inspection: The locksmith will inspect your existing locks to determine if they can be re-keyed.
- Re-keying: The locksmith will disassemble the lock cylinder and replace the pins with new ones, creating a new key combination.
- Testing: The locksmith will test the new keys to ensure they work smoothly and securely.
- Key Duplication: The locksmith can provide you with as many copies of the new keys as you need.
7. Choosing a Locksmith: Finding a Professional
Choosing a reputable and qualified locksmith is crucial for ensuring the re-keying process is done correctly and efficiently. Look for a locksmith who is licensed, insured, and has a good reputation in your community. Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family.
If you are in Perth, Australia, and need a reliable and experienced locksmith for re-keying your new home, we highly recommend contacting Locksmith Perth 247. They provide fast, efficient, and professional locksmith services and are dedicated to ensuring your security and peace of mind. You can reach them at 0427 580 823
8. DIY vs. Professional Re-keying: Weighing the Options
While some homeowners may attempt to re-key locks themselves, it’s generally recommended to hire a professional locksmith. Re-keying requires specialized tools and knowledge, and mistakes can compromise the security of your locks. A qualified locksmith can ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently, saving you time, hassle, and potential security risks.
9. Timing the Re-keying: When to Do It
Ideally, you should re-key your locks as soon as possible after closing on your new home. This will give you peace of mind from the moment you move in. If you can’t do it immediately, prioritize it as one of the first tasks on your to-do list.
10. Budgeting for Re-keying: A Worthwhile Investment
The cost of re-keying your locks will vary depending on the number of locks, the type of locks, and the locksmith’s rates. However, it’s a relatively small investment compared to the cost of replacing your belongings or dealing with the aftermath of a break-in. Consider re-keying a necessary expense for protecting your new home and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to re-key locks?
The cost of re-keying locks varies depending on several factors, including the number of locks, the type of locks, and the locksmith’s rates. It’s best to get a quote from a local locksmith for an accurate estimate.
Can I re-key any type of lock?
Most standard residential locks can be re-keyed. However, some high-security locks or specialized locks may require specific tools or expertise. A qualified locksmith can assess your locks and determine if they can be re-keyed.
How long does it take to re-key a lock?
Re-keying a standard lock typically takes about 15-30 minutes per lock. The entire process will depend on the number of locks that need to be re-keyed.
What should I do with the old keys after re-keying?
After re-keying your locks, it’s important to dispose of the old keys securely. You can destroy them yourself or give them to the locksmith for proper disposal. Avoid leaving them lying around or giving them to anyone you don’t trust.