When Should You Change Your Locks? Essential Home Security Tips

The locks on your home are one of the most important parts of your overall security system. Think of them as the physical equivalent of a password protecting your computer, phone, or online accounts. Strong locks keep your family safe, protect your belongings, and give you peace of mind.

Just as you update your digital passwords regularly, there are times when you should update or change your door locks as well. But how do you know when it’s necessary? Here are the most common situations when you should call a professional locksmith to change or upgrade your locks.

1. After Moving Into a New Home

If you’ve just moved into a new house or apartment, changing the locks should be one of your very first steps. You can’t be sure how many people had keys before you—from the previous owners to contractors or neighbors. Replacing the locks ensures that you are the only one with access. If you’re renting, ask your landlord to install new locks right away.

2. After a Break-In

If your home has been burglarized, your locks may have been damaged or compromised. Even if the intruder entered through a window, they could have taken a spare key and planned to return. Installing new locks after a break-in is a critical step in restoring your home’s security.

3. If Your Locks Are Old or Damaged

Like any mechanical device, locks wear out over time. Exposure to the elements and constant use can cause them to stick, jam, or fail completely. If your locks are difficult to turn, stiff, or unreliable, replace them before they stop working altogether. While rekeying may be an option, upgrading to new, high-quality locks is often the safer choice.

4. If You Lose Your Keys

Lost keys pose a major security risk, even if they’re later returned to you. Someone could have copied them before handing them back. To keep your home safe, call a locksmith immediately to change the locks whenever your keys go missing.

5. After a Divorce or Breakup

Relationships can change, but your security should remain constant. If you’re going through a divorce or separation, it’s wise to replace your locks to prevent unwanted access to your home. Protecting your personal space is an important part of moving forward.

6. When Giving Keys to Children

As kids grow older, many parents give them house keys for convenience. However, children are prone to losing things, and a lost key can put your home at risk. If your child misplaces their key—or even just carries one regularly—it’s smart to change your locks periodically.

7. After Giving a Key to a Service Provider

Sometimes homeowners leave keys for repairmen, cleaners, or other service providers. Even if you trust the company, you can’t always know who has access. To eliminate risk, change your locks after providing a spare key to anyone outside your household.

8. To Upgrade Your Home Security

If your home still relies on a basic knob lock, it’s time to upgrade. A strong deadbolt or a smart lock system provides much better protection against intruders. While no lock is completely unbreakable, a high-quality lock can deter most break-in attempts and significantly improve your home’s security.

Protect Your Home With Professional Locksmith Services

Your locks are your home’s first line of defense. Whether you’ve just moved, lost your keys, or want to upgrade to stronger locks, a trusted local locksmith can help ensure your property stays secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late—if you recognize any of the situations above, schedule a lock change today.

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