So you’ve just moved into your new place! It’s an exciting day! There are so many things to check off your to-do list…like getting new keys for your locks. You may be asking, “Do I really need to rekey after moving in?”
The short answer is a resounding YES! You absolutely need to rekey your locks when moving into a new home. Whether you are the first owner of a new construction or the 100th owner of a historical property, you need to ensure you and your family are safe by rekeying your lock.
What Does Rekeying Mean?
You probably already know how to replace the locks on your home, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional locksmith. But rekeying allows you to keep the current lock and only replace the keys.
To rekey, the locksmith will take apart the existing lock and the tumblers (or key pins). The pins will be set to match the new key. The process will require the existing key and the new key you want to use with the lock. The process does not damage the lock, and it does not change the security of the locking mechanism.
Reasons to Rekey Your Locks
With so many items on your move-in checklist, you may consider letting the existing lock and key remain until you have more time on your hands. However, it is recommended that you ensure the safety of your property and rekey your locks as soon as possible.
Here are 4 reasons why changing your keys is so important.
Control Access to Your Property
While you may be relatively sure that the previous property owners gave you their full set of keys to the house, you can’t be 100% sure! There is always the possibility that they kept a spare in order to maintain access to the house.
Even if the previous owners acted in good faith and handed over all of the keys, they may innocently forget that they gave a key to a neighbor, family member, or friend! Your safety should be of the utmost importance, and keeping strangers from accessing your home will go a long way towards keeping you and your family safe.
Some people may think a new construction home doesn’t need the locks changed or rekeyed, but that is also not the safest route. Various contractors and tradespeople have had access to your property while finishing the build, and you will have more peace of mind if you rekey your locks!
Reduce Liability
Rekeying your locks may also be required by your new homeowner’s policy. Should you suffer from a burglary or break-in, your policy may not cover the loss of property if you did not change the locks or rekey upon moving in.
Your insurance agent will likely suggest rekeying as a precaution.
Add Your Personality
New keys mean a new chance to show off your personality. Your locksmith can provide a generic-styled key for you to use, but your new home deserves a key with style. At Custom Keys, you’ll find a wide selection of blank keys that can be fitted to your new lock. Whether you want a flower, a seashell, or a skull, Custom Keys is sure to have a design you will love. And if you don’t see the exact design you want, they have a custom order option!
Save Money
Let’s face it, moving into a new home is expensive. Even if you budgeted well, there are a ton of little unexpected expenses that pop up. Rekeying your locks, instead of replacing them, is one way to keep a little cash in your wallet. Replacing the key pins is generally a lot cheaper than purchasing a whole new locking mechanism, and since it is a straightforward process, it should cut down on labor costs as well.
Note: While it is perfectly fine to shop around for a good deal on a locksmith, make sure that your choice is properly licensed and insured.
Rekeying Your Locks is the Right Choice
Moving into a new home is a fun and exciting time, and you want it to stay that way. Keep your family and your property safe by rekeying your locks as soon as possible after moving into your new home.