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Should I change my locks after buying a house

Posted on: | Category: Locksmith Guide

Should I change my locks after buying a house?

When purchasing a new home, one of the first things that homeowners may want to consider is changing the locks. This is especially important if the previous homeowners still have keys to the property or if the house has been previously occupied by renters. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why you should change your locks after buying a new home and some tips on how to do it safely and effectively.

Why Change Locks After Buying a House?

There are several reasons why you should change the locks on your new home as soon as possible after purchase. Here are a few of the most important ones:

  • Security: One of the most obvious reasons to change your locks is to ensure that your home is as secure as possible. This is especially important if the previous homeowners still have keys to the property, or if the house has been previously occupied by renters. By changing the locks, you can prevent unauthorized access to your home and protect yourself and your family from potential break-ins.

  • Privacy: Changing the locks on your new home can also help you to maintain your privacy. This is particularly important if you're concerned about the previous homeowners or renters having access to your personal information or belongings. By changing the locks, you can ensure that only you and those you trust have access to your home.

  • Peace of Mind: Finally, changing the locks on your new home can give you peace of mind knowing that you and your family are safe and secure in your new home.

How to Change Locks After Buying a House

  1. Hire a professional locksmith: Hiring a professional locksmith is the most safe and effective way to change your locks. Locksmiths have the experience, tools, and knowledge necessary to change your locks quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, many locksmiths also offer additional services such as key duplication, re-keying, and security assessments.

  2. Change all locks on every entry point: Make sure to change all the locks on every entry point of the house including the front and back doors, garage, and any side gates.

  3. Consider Upgrading the Locks: Upgrading the locks is a great idea especially if the house has old or simple locks. Upgraded locks can be more difficult to pick and provide an added level of security to the home.

  4. Keep the Old Keys: Keep the old keys in a safe place for future reference, for example in case of emergency.

  5. Documentation and Record Keeping: Finally, make sure to keep all the documentation related to lock change handy with you and record it in your personal home inventory.