Moving into a new home is exciting. You’ve got fresh walls to decorate, new spaces to organize, and the thrill of starting a new chapter. But besides the excitement, it’s easy to overlook something crucial, that is your home’s security. One of the first steps you should take after moving in is to rekey your locks.
You might think, “The old locks are fine if they work.” But the truth is, unless you rekey them, you don’t really know who else has a key to your home. Whether it’s previous owners, contractors, or even the neighbor who used to water the plants, anyone with an old key could potentially access your house.
What Does Rekeying Your Locks Mean?
Rekeying is different from replacing locks entirely. When you rekey, a locksmith changes the internal pins of your existing lock so that the old keys no longer work. This is a quick and cost-effective way to ensure only you and your family have access to your new home.
Here’s why rekeying makes sense:
- It’s cheaper than replacing the entire lock system.
- You keep the current hardware, which is great if you like how it looks.
- It gives you an assurance that no one else has a key.
Why Rekeying Should Be a Priority After Moving In
Let’s break down the key reasons rekeying is essential right after moving into a new home.
Unknown Copies of Your Key
You can’t be sure how many copies of your house key are floating around. Past homeowners may have handed keys to family, friends, contractors, or even house cleaners. Rekeying locks wipes the slate clean, ensuring you have complete control over access to your home.
Preventing Unauthorized Access
Even if the previous owners seemed trustworthy, there’s no guarantee they collected every spare key before handing over the house. Rekeying is a precaution that protects your family and belongings from potential risks.
Affordable Security Upgrade
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to enhance your new home’s security, rekeying is the perfect solution. Unlike replacing the entire lock, rekeying is quicker and less expensive, making it an ideal choice when you’ve already spent a lot on moving.
Also Read: Lock Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Door Locks
When Should You Rekey Locks?
The best time to rekey is right before or immediately after moving into your new home. This way, you’re not giving anyone an opportunity to misuse an old key. Additionally, consider rekeying your locks:
- After a roommate moves out.
- If you lose your keys.
- When you’ve had a security concern in the past.
Each of these situations calls for a fresh start to keep your space secure.
Can You Rekey Locks Yourself?
While DIY lock rekeying kits are available, it’s always better to call a professional. A skilled residential locksmith in Nashville will ensure the job is done right. Attempting it yourself could result in a faulty lock, leaving your home vulnerable.
What to Look for in a Locksmith
When hiring a locksmith, it’s important to choose someone reliable and experienced. Here are a few tips to help you find the right professional:
- Check reviews: Look for positive feedback from other customers in your area.
- Verify credentials: Make sure the locksmith is licensed and insured.
- Ask about services: A good locksmith offers more than just rekeying; they can also handle lock repairs, replacements, and upgrades.
Working with a trusted residential locksmith in Nashville ensures your locks are secure and your home is protected.
Additional Benefits of Rekeying
If your new home has multiple doors with different locks, you can ask the locksmith to create a master key system. This means one key can open all the doors in your house. No need to carry a bulky keychain anymore. Plus, rekeying gives you the chance to inspect your locks. A professional locksmith can identify any worn-out or outdated locks that may need upgrading.
Other Steps to Secure Your New Home
While rekeying is a great first step, there are other things you can do to make your home safer:
- Install a security system: Modern systems often come with cameras, motion detectors, and app controls.
- Upgrade exterior lighting: Motion-sensor lights can deter potential intruders.
- Secure windows: Add locks or safety film to make them harder to break.
- Get to know your neighbors: A friendly relationship with those around you creates an extra layer of security.
Combining these steps with rekeying your locks ensures your new home is as safe as possible.
Moved to a New House? Let Us Rekey Your Locks!
At Nashville Locksmiths, we know how important it is to feel safe in your home. That’s why we specialize in rekeying services for new homeowners. As a trusted residential locksmith in Nashville, we’re here to make sure your locks are secure, and your family is protected.
Our team is experienced, reliable, and ready to handle all your locksmith needs, whether it’s rekeying, lock repairs, or upgrades. Reach out to us today to schedule a service. We’ll help you start this new chapter!