Should You Rekey Your Locks After Moving House?
Updated: Oct 16
 | You've just been handed the keys to your new home. But how many other people could have exactly the same key? |
Who Might Still Have a Key?
Previous owners, tenants, tradespeople or cleaners may have been given copies over the years. Even if every key was returned at settlement, there's no way to know how many duplicates were made.
Most people are honest and would never misuse a key.
The issue isn't about distrust - it's about certainty.
That's why rekeying your locks is worth considering when you move into a new property. It's often a straightforward, cost-effective way to make sure old keys no longer work, without replacing every lock.
What Is Rekeying?
Many people think the only way to secure a home is to replace every lock.
In many cases, that's simply not necessary.
Rekeying involves changing the internal pins inside your existing lock cylinder so it works with a brand-new key. Once the lock has been rekeyed, the previous keys will no longer operate that lock.
The lock itself remains on the door, but only your new keys will operate it.
It's an effective way to improve your home's security without replacing quality hardware that still functions perfectly.
Rekeying vs Replacing Locks After Moving
If your locks are in good condition, rekeying is often the most practical option.
It typically costs less than replacing every lock and can usually be completed much faster.
Lock replacement is generally recommended when locks are damaged, worn out, outdated or when you're upgrading to a different style of lock or improved security features.
An experienced locksmith can assess your existing locks and recommend the most suitable option for your home.
Can All Your Locks Work with One Key?
One of the biggest advantages of rekeying is convenience.
In many homes, several external doors use different keys.
During the rekeying process, these locks can often be configured to operate from a single key, making everyday life much simpler.
Instead of carrying multiple keys, you'll only need one to unlock your front door, back door and side entrance.
What Should You Check Before Rekeying Your New Home?
When moving into a new home, it's worth checking more than just the front door. Most homes have several access points, and some may have been overlooked by previous owners or tenants.
Before arranging to have your locks rekeyed, consider:
Front and back doors: Check which locks need rekeying and whether any are damaged or difficult to operate.
Security screen doors: These often have separate locks that may need to be rekeyed.
Garage access: Check internal garage doors, external access doors and whether previous garage remotes have been removed from the system.
Side and rear entrances: Don't overlook laundry doors, side gates or other accessible entry points.
One key for multiple doors: Ask whether your existing locks are compatible with being keyed alike, allowing you to use one key for several doors.
Smart locks and keypads: If your home has electronic locks, consider resetting access codes and removing any previous users.
A local locksmith can assess your existing locks, explain which can be rekeyed and identify any hardware that may need replacing.
Taking the time to review all access points means you're not just changing a few keys, you are addressing who may still have access to your new home.
A Real Example: Securing a New Home in Box Hill
A recent customer in Box Hill had just purchased a new home and wanted peace of mind knowing the previous keys could no longer be used.
Peter rekeyed the front door lock so the old keys would no longer work. During the job, he also replaced the existing lock on the internal door between the garage and the house, as it couldn't be securely locked.
By rekeying the existing front door lock and replacing only the garage entry lock that needed upgrading, Peter improved the home's security without unnecessary hardware replacement.
It's a good reminder that when moving into a new property, checking every access point is just as important as changing who has the keys.
When Should You Rekey?
Moving house is one of the most common reasons to rekey, but it isn't the only one.
You should also consider rekeying if you have:
Lost your keys
Recently ended a tenancy
Experienced a relationship change
Had keys stolen
Completed renovations with multiple tradespeople on site
Moved into an investment property
Purchased an older home
Any time you're unsure who may still have access to your property, rekeying is worth considering.
Need Your New Home Rekeyed in North-West Sydney?
If you've recently moved into a home in Schofields, Rouse Hill, Tallawong, The Ponds or surrounding suburbs, Peter from The Good Locksmith can assess your existing locks and explain your options.
Whether you want to make sure old keys no longer work, have several doors operate from one key or replace worn-out hardware, you'll deal directly with the locksmith completing the job.
Call Peter on 0422 905 945 or request a quote to discuss rekeying your new home.
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