Spring is one of the most popular times of the year for moving house. The longer days and milder weather make it the perfect season to settle into a new home and start fresh. But in the excitement of unpacking and decorating, many homeowners overlook one crucial step—changing the locks.
If you’ve recently moved or are about to, one of the first things you should do is secure your new home by.While it might not be at the top of your moving checklist, it’s a small step that can make a huge difference in your home’s security.
Why Should You Change Your Locks After Moving In?
When you move into a new property, you’re not just getting a home—you’re also inheriting its security history. No matter how trustworthy the previous owners seemed, you have no way of knowing how many copies of your house keys exist.
Over the years, spare keys may have been given to family members, neighbours, cleaners, estate agents, or even tradespeople. Without changing the locks, there’s always a risk that someone you don’t know still has access to your home.
Another reason to replace your locks is wear and tear. Older locks may be stiff, damaged, or easier to break into. Some may no longer meet modern security standards, making them more vulnerable to burglars. By installing new high-security locks, you ensure that your home is protected with the latest security features, giving you peace of mind from day one.
The Risks of Keeping Old Locks
Many people assume that because a lock is still functional, it doesn’t need to be changed. However, old locks could pose serious security risks. Some older homes still have outdated Euro cylinder locks, which can be easily bypassed by burglars using a technique called lock snapping. This method allows intruders to break a lock in seconds, gaining access to a home without any need for special tools.
If your new home’s locks are not British Standard approved, your insurance provider may also refuse to cover break-ins. Most insurers require locks to meet BS3621 for wooden doors and BS8621 or BS10621 for specific security features. If your locks don’t meet these standards, your policy might be invalid in the event of a burglary.
Changing your locks is a simple but effective way to protect your belongings, ensure compliance with your home insurance, and prevent unauthorised access.
Rekeying vs Replacing Your Locks – What’s Best for You?
When changing your locks, you have two main options: rekeying or completely replacing them.
Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanism of the existing lock so that old keys no longer work. This is a cost-effective way to improve security if the current locks are in good condition. However, if your locks are old, worn out, or not insurance-approved, it’s better to replace them entirely with new high-security models.
Replacing the locks gives you complete control over your home’s security and allows you to upgrade to anti-snap, anti-bump, and anti-pick locks for maximum protection.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your property, a professional locksmith can assess your locks and recommend the most secure solution.
What Types of Locks Should You Consider?
If you decide to upgrade your locks, it’s important to choose strong, insurance-approved options that offer the best level of protection.
For wooden doors, 5-lever mortice deadlocks (BS3621 certified) are one of the most secure choices, meeting most insurance requirements. If your doors use Euro cylinder locks, upgrading to an anti-snap version prevents burglars from using common break-in techniques.
For modern convenience, smart locks are also becoming increasingly popular. These allow you to lock and unlock doors using a keypad, fingerprint scanner, or smartphone app. Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or stolen copies while giving you greater control over home security.
Additionally, don’t forget about window locks and garage security. Securing all entry points, not just the front door, is essential for keeping your property fully protected.
When Should You Call a Locksmith?
Changing locks isn’t always a straightforward task, especially if you want to ensure they are correctly installed and meet British security standards. A professional locksmith can quickly and efficiently change or rekey your locks, ensuring they function smoothly and provide maximum protection.
It’s a good idea to call a locksmith if:
- You have just moved in and want full control over your home’s security
- The existing locks are stiff, damaged, or outdated
- You need to upgrade to high-security, insurance-approved locks
- You are interested in installing smart locks for added convenience
- You’re unsure whether your current locks meet home insurance requirements
At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we provide professional lock replacement services for new homeowners, ensuring your property is secure from day one. Whether you need rekeying, upgraded locks, or expert advice, we’re here to help.
Additional Security Tips for New Homeowners
In addition to changing your locks, there are other important security steps you should take after moving in.
- Check all entry points – Inspect doors, windows, and gates to ensure they are secure and functioning properly.
- Install a door viewer and security chain – A peephole or chain allows you to see who’s at the door before opening it.
- Upgrade your home security system – Consider adding CCTV cameras, smart doorbells, or an alarm system for extra protection.
- Secure outbuildings and garages – Sheds, garages, and side gates are often overlooked but can be easy targets for burglars.
- Change alarm codes and reset keypads – If your home has an existing security system, change the access codes to prevent old users from entering.
By taking these steps, you can significantly improve the security of your new home and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you are fully protected.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook Your Locks.
Moving into a new home is exciting, but securing your property should be a top priority. Changing your locks ensures that you are the only person with access, eliminating the risk of old keys being in circulation.
At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we offer fast, reliable, and professional lock replacement services to help homeowners secure their property. Whether you need a simple rekeying, an upgrade to high-security locks, or smart lock installation, we have the expertise to keep your home safe. Get in touch with us today to learn more.