Why You Should Rekey Your Locks When Moving In

When you get the keys to a new home, it feels like the place is yours. The locks, though, may still answer to keys you have never seen. Rekeying is a quick, affordable way to make sure only the people you choose can get in.

What rekeying actually means

Inside a pin-tumbler lock are small pins of different lengths. Rekeying replaces them so the lock works with a new key and no longer with the old one. The handles, deadbolts and finish stay exactly as they are, which is why rekeying usually costs less than replacing the locks.

Reason 1: you don’t know who else has a key

Previous owners or tenants, their relatives, real-estate agents, cleaners, contractors, pet sitters and old roommates may all have held a copy at some point. Even if the seller hands over a full set, there is no way to know whether a duplicate was cut at a hardware store years ago.

Reason 2: it is a low-cost security upgrade

On the published Anaheim Lock & Key price list, rekeying for homes and businesses starts at $19.00 plus the $29 service call fee. If several locks share a keyway, they can often be set to one key, so you carry a single key for the front door, back door and garage entry.

Reason 3: peace of mind

A home should feel safe from the first night. Rekeying on moving day removes the nagging question of who else could walk in.

Renters: ask your landlord

If you rent, ask the landlord to rekey before you move in. Many will agree or let you arrange it as long as they receive a copy of the new key. Get permission in writing before changing anything.

After renovations or staff changes

Contractors often hold keys during a remodel. Once the work is done, rekeying is a simple way to close that chapter. The same applies when a cleaner, nanny or caregiver stops working with you.

Rekey or replace?

• Rekey when the locks work well and you just want new keys.
• Replace when a lock is worn, damaged or a low grade for an exterior door.
• Upgrade when you want features like a keypad or a higher-security cylinder.

Conclusion

Rekeying is one of the first jobs worth doing in a new home. Call 714-660-0403 for an estimate, and look at the coupons page for the move-in special and the rekey offer.

Related pages: residential locksmith ZIP 92801