How Often Should You Rekey Your Locks?

Your home's security depends on who has access to your keys. Over time, keys get shared, lost, or fall into unknown hands. Rekeying your locks ensures that only authorized people can enter your home.

What is Lock Rekeying?

Rekeying is the process of changing the internal pins of a lock so that old keys no longer work, while providing you with new keys that do. Unlike lock replacement, rekeying keeps your existing hardware while providing fresh security.

When Should You Rekey Your Locks?

After Moving Into a New Home

This is the most important time to rekey. You have no way of knowing how many copies of keys exist from previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, or house cleaners who may have had access.

After Losing Your Keys

If your keys are lost or stolen, especially if they could be traced back to your address, rekeying is essential. Even if you think you simply misplaced them, it is better to be safe.

After a Break-In or Attempted Break-In

Whether successful or not, any security breach should prompt immediate rekeying. This prevents any possibility of copied keys being used.

When Relationships Change

After a divorce, breakup, or when a roommate moves out, rekeying ensures your privacy and security going forward.

After Home Service Work

If you have given keys to contractors, house sitters, or cleaning services, consider rekeying once their services are complete.

Rekeying vs. Lock Replacement

Understanding when each option makes sense:

Choose Rekeying When:

• Your locks are in good working condition
• You want to maintain the same lock style and finish
• You need a more budget-friendly option
• You want to set all locks to use the same key

Choose Replacement When:

• Your locks are old, worn, or damaged
• You want to upgrade to higher security locks
• You are updating your home's aesthetic
• The lock mechanism is failing

How Often for Regular Maintenance?

For general security maintenance, consider rekeying every 5-7 years, or sooner if any of the situations above apply. Regular rekeying is especially important for rental properties between tenants.

Benefits of Professional Rekeying

• Proper pin alignment - Ensures smooth operation and long lock life
• Security assessment - A locksmith can identify other vulnerabilities
• Master key systems - Can set up convenient key management
• Warranty protection - Professional work maintains any existing warranties