Should I Change My Locks?
One of the most common pieces of advice for new homeowners is to change the locks as soon as you move in. You never know who might have a copy of the key. You may want to change the locks to ensure the security of your loved ones and possessions. However, before you call a professional locksmith here at Metro Lock & Safe, Inc., you should know that changing the locks isn’t your only option!
What’s the Difference Between Changing the Locks and Rekeying the Locks?
The main difference between changing the locks in your home and rekeying them is the process. When you hire a professional locksmith to change the locks in your home, he or she will physically remove the old locks and replace them with new ones. When you hire a locksmith to rekey the locks, all of the existing locks will remain, but the old keys will no longer work. Rekeying often costs significantly
When Should I Change My Locks?
While rekeying the locks is often a cheaper option, there are certainly a few instances in which a complete lock change would be better, including:
- After a break-in. If someone breaks into your home and damages the locks, it’s best to have them changed entirely. This process may also help give you and your loved ones some peace of mind after such a traumatic event.
- Old, rusted, or broken locks. If your locks have rusted or broken, it’s time to change them entirely. Old and broken locks compromise the security of your home.
- Multiple brands and types of locks. It may be best to change the locks if there are numerous brands and models of locks in the home that require various keys.
- Upgrades. It’s best to change the locks if you’re looking to upgrade them, such as for keyless entry.
When Should I Rekey My Locks?
In other instances, rekeying the locks is the best option. In the following cases, consider rekeying the locks instead of changing them:
- Lost keys. If you lost your keys and you have no idea where they went, you can hire a professional locksmith to rekey your locks. That way, if anyone finds your lost keys, they cannot access your home.
- Just moved in. Instead of changing the locks entirely when you move into a new home, you can hire a locksmith to rekey the locks. That way, if someone who lived there before you still has a key, you can rest easy at night knowing they can’t access your home.
- Divorce or separation. If you and your partner recently divorced or separated, you may feel better after rekeying the locks. No need to change the locks entirely if you just want to ensure your ex cannot access the home with their old key.
- Multiple keys. If you have many different keys due to different locks at your home’s entry points, rekeying the locks so that they work with a single key could make life a lot easier for you and your family!
- Someone gave out a spare key. If someone in your household gave out a spare key to another person and it hasn’t been returned, rekeying your locks can ensure they don’t have access to your home.
Should I Rekey or Change My Locks at My Business?
In some cases, business owners may want to consider changing the locks or rekeying the locks of their commercial buildings. Such businesses include:
- Retail establishments.
- Offices.
- Apartment buildings.
- Hotels.
- Supermarkets.
- Small businesses.
- Corporate buildings.
In some cases, business owners should consider changing or rekeying the locks, including when:
- When an employee is fired. If a keyholder for your business is fired and you don’t receive the key back, you may want to consider rekeying or changing the locks.
- After a break-in. If your business is burglarized and the locks are damaged in the process, you’ll need to change the locks.
- After a remodel. If you remodel your commercial space, you may want to change the locks to achieve the aesthetic look you want.
- When locks are old or damaged. If your business’s locks are old, rusted, or damaged, it’s time to change them.
- When property ownership changes. If the person who owns your business’s building sells the property, the new owner may want you to change the locks to ensure only the appropriate personnel have access to the building.
- Upgrades. If you’re looking to upgrade your locks, it’s time to change them. Many locks come with technologies such as keypads, biometric security measures, and more.
Rekeying the locks is often much cheaper, as property owners don’t have to pay for the parts and labor involved with completely changing the locks. However, as mentioned above, there are certain instances in which it’s best to change the locks entirely.
How Can Metro Lock & Safe, Inc. Help?
Metro Lock & Safe, Inc. is a full-service safety and access service provider, including everything from standard locksmith services to electronic locks, data safes, and more. The experienced team at Metro Lock & Safe Inc. is knowledgeable about the latest cutting-edge systems, and they are happy to help identify the right security system for your home. Call today for 24-hour emergency locksmith services with 20-minute response times!