Why You Should Always Rekey Your Locks When Moving

Who still has a key?

The previous owners, obviously. But also their relatives, a dog walker, a cleaner, the agent's lockbox, contractors from a remodel and maybe a tenant from years ago. None of them need to be dishonest for this to matter; keys get lost, copied and handed on.

In a beach town with lots of rentals and remodels, the list gets long. Changing who can open your door is the first security job after moving in.

What rekeying actually does

Inside a pin-tumbler lock is a row of small pins cut to match a key. A locksmith takes the cylinder out, replaces those pins with a new set and cuts new keys. The lock looks the same and works the same. Only the new keys turn it.

Because the hardware stays, rekeying costs less than replacement. The price list shows rekeys from $19.00 per lock, plus the service call.

Rekey or replace?

Rekey when the locks are sound and you like them. Replace when a lock is worn, damaged by salt air, or too low a grade for an exterior door. Moving is also a sensible moment to add a deadbolt where there is none, or a keypad lock if you would like to stop carrying keys.

One more option: ask for all exterior doors keyed alike. One key for the front, back and garage is easier to live with.

Renters

Renters can ask the landlord to rekey before move-in. Many will agree, since it protects the property too. If you pay for it yourself, check the lease first and give the landlord a copy of the new key if the lease requires it.

Do it in the first week

It is easy to put off when boxes are everywhere. Book it with the move. If you are in 92663, 92660 or anywhere in Newport Beach, the residential locksmith page has the details.