Should You Change the Locks After Moving? (Yes, Here's How to Do It Right)

When you move into a new home, you inherit whatever the previous owner did with their keys. That might be nothing worrying. It might also be a decade of copies handed to cleaners, dog walkers, neighbors, contractors, family members, and past tenants. There's no way to know.

The only way to guarantee a lock's key list starts at zero is to rekey or replace it.

Rekey first, replace only if you need to

Most people don't need to replace their locks after moving in. If the existing locks are in good condition, rekeying is faster and cheaper and produces the same practical result: the old keys stop working, and you get a fresh set.

If a lock is damaged, doesn't fit right, or you want to upgrade (for example to a smart lock, a keypad, or a higher-security cylinder), that's a good reason to replace it.

Do all the exterior doors, not just the front

Rekey every door that goes outside, front, back, side entries, and the door from the garage into the house. If they can share one key, even better. This is exactly the kind of small job where a mobile locksmith saves you time.

What about renters?

If you're renting, ask the landlord (in writing) whether they rekeyed between tenants. If they didn't, ask if you can arrange it. Some leases allow it if the landlord gets a copy of the new key. Never change locks on a rental without confirming the terms, but do have the conversation.

Extras worth considering

• Match keys across the house so one key opens every door.
• Add a smart lock if you'd like to give and revoke codes to family or contractors.
• Consider a high-security lock or restricted keyway on the main entry.