You should change your locks in your new house as soon as you move in.
Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but ensuring your security should be one of your top priorities. While decorating and unpacking are high on the list, replacing the existing locks is a fundamental step to guarantee only you and your trusted family members have access to your property.
Why Change Your Locks Immediately?
The primary reason for changing your locks immediately is security. You can never be certain who might still possess a key to your new home. This could include:
- Previous owners or tenants
- Their friends or family members
- Past contractors or service providers
- Estate agents who managed the property
- Lost or copied keys from years ago
Even if the previous owners seem trustworthy, changing the locks eliminates any potential risk and provides crucial peace of mind in your new sanctuary.
The Surprising Reality & Expert Recommendation
Despite the clear security benefits, many homeowners overlook this vital step. According to Right Move, a recent survey conducted by Keytek Locksmiths found that 74% of homeowners do not change their locks after moving home. While there are likely a variety of reasons as to why this is the case, we'd always recommend changing them as soon as you move. This expert advice underscores the importance of prioritizing this task right from the start.
Practical Steps & Considerations
Once you've decided to change your locks, consider the following practical aspects:
Which Locks to Change?
While focusing on the main entry points is crucial, consider all access points:
- Front Door: Your primary entry and most important lock.
- Back Door: Often targeted by burglars.
- Patio Doors: Sliding doors can be vulnerable; ensure they have secure locks.
- Garage Door: If it provides access to the house or valuable items.
- Shed/Outbuildings: For securing tools or equipment.
Choosing New Locks
There are various types of locks available, offering different levels of security. Consider consulting with a locksmith or researching options like:
- Cylinder Locks: Common on uPVC and composite doors. Look for anti-snap, anti-pick, anti-drill features (often marked with a star rating or British Standard Kitemark).
- Mortice Locks: Typically found on wooden doors. Aim for a 5-lever mortice lock conforming to British Standard BS3621.
- Smart Locks: Offer keyless entry via keypad, smartphone app, or fingerprint, providing convenience and logging entry times.
| Lock Type | Common Door Type | Security Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinder Lock | uPVC, Composite, Wood | Anti-snap, Anti-pick, Anti-drill, Kitemark |
| Mortice Lock | Wooden | 5-lever, British Standard BS3621 |
| Smart Lock | Various | Keyless entry, Remote access, Activity logs |
DIY vs. Professional Locksmith
You can change some basic locks yourself if you have the skills, but for maximum security and to ensure British Standards are met, hiring a professional locksmith is recommended. They can assess your specific needs, recommend suitable high-security locks, and install them correctly.
Changing your locks as soon as you move in is a small investment for significant security benefits and peace of mind, protecting your new home and everything inside it.
