How to Change Your Locks After Moving Into a New Home

Why You Should Change Locks When Moving Into a New Home

Congratulations on your new home! But before you unpack the first box, there's one security task that absolutely cannot wait: changing the locks on your new home. This single step could be the most important thing you do to protect your family and belongings.

Think about it — the previous owners may have handed out keys to neighbors, housecleaners, contractors, dog walkers, relatives, or real estate agents. Even if everyone seems trustworthy, you simply don't know how many copies exist or where they are right now. The same goes for rental properties, where multiple tenants may have had keys over the years.

The Risks of Not Changing Your Locks

• Unauthorized entry by previous owners or their contacts
• Burglary by someone who found or copied a key
• Old contractor or property manager keys still in circulation
• Real estate lockboxes that may have been compromised
• Voided homeowner's insurance claims due to lack of proper security measures

According to many insurance professionals, failing to change locks after moving can complicate claims if a break-in occurs. Protect yourself from day one. Visit our residential locksmith services page to learn how we help new homeowners secure their properties fast.

Rekeying vs. Replacing: What's the Difference?

When people talk about changing locks in a new home, they usually mean one of two things: rekeying the existing locks or fully replacing them. Both accomplish the goal of making old keys useless, but they work differently and suit different situations.

Rekeying Your Locks

Rekeying means changing the internal pin configuration of your existing lock cylinder so that the old key no longer works. A locksmith inserts a new set of pins that match a brand-new key. The lock hardware itself stays in place — only the internal tumbler changes.

Best for: Homeowners who are happy with their current locks and just want to invalidate old keys. It's faster and less expensive than full replacement.

Replacing Your Locks

Full lock replacement means removing the existing lock entirely and installing a brand-new one. This is necessary when your current locks are old, worn, damaged, or simply not up to security standards.

Best for: Homes with outdated or low-quality hardware, damaged locks, or homeowners who want to upgrade to a smart lock or higher-security deadbolt.

What You'll Need to Change Your Locks

If you're going the DIY route for a basic lock replacement, here's what to gather before you start:

Tools & Materials

• New lock set (deadbolt + door knob/lever, or just a deadbolt)
• Phillips head screwdriver (manual or power drill)
• Flathead screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• New strike plate (usually included with the lock set)
• Chisel (if adjusting the strike plate mortise)
• Pencil for marking

Choosing the Right Lock

Not all locks are created equal. When selecting a lock for your new home, look for:

• ANSI Grade 1: The highest grade, ideal for exterior doors
• Deadbolt with a 1-inch throw bolt for maximum resistance to kick-ins
• Anti-pick, anti-bump, anti-drill features on the cylinder
• Reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws that anchor into the door frame stud

Brands like Schlage, Kwikset, and Medeco offer excellent residential options. If you're unsure which lock is right for your door, our lock rekeying and consultation services can help you make the right call.

Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Locks

Follow these steps to replace a standard residential deadbolt on an exterior door:

Step 1: Remove the Old Lock

Start by opening the door so you have easy access to both sides. Locate the screws on the interior side of the deadbolt — usually two screws on the interior rose or escutcheon plate. Unscrew them fully and pull the interior thumb-turn assembly away from the door. Slide out the cylinder from the exterior side. Finally, remove the strike plate from the door frame using your screwdriver.

Step 2: Remove the Latch Bolt

On the edge of the door, you'll find the bolt assembly held in by two screws. Remove both screws and slide the latch bolt out. Keep it nearby — you'll use the same hole for the new lock's bolt unless the backset measurement differs.

Step 3: Check the Backset Measurement

The backset is the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hole where the lock cylinder sits. The two most common backsets are 2-3/8 inches and 2-3/4 inches. Most lock packages accommodate both. Make sure your new lock matches your door's existing backset before proceeding.

Step 4: Install the New Latch Bolt

Insert the new latch bolt into the edge of the door, with the angled face of the bolt pointing toward the direction the door closes. Secure it with the provided screws. The faceplate should sit flush with the door edge. If it doesn't, you may need to chisel a slightly deeper mortise.

Step 5: Install the Exterior Cylinder

Insert the new exterior lock cylinder through the large hole from outside. The tailpiece (the metal bar extending from the cylinder) should slide through the latch bolt mechanism. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions, as configurations vary by brand.

Step 6: Attach the Interior Assembly

On the interior side, align the thumb-turn assembly so the mounting holes line up with the exterior cylinder's holes. Insert the two long mounting screws through the interior rose and tighten them firmly — but don't overtighten, as this can cause the lock to bind. Test the thumb-turn to make sure the bolt extends and retracts smoothly.

Step 7: Install the New Strike Plate

Remove the old strike plate and install the new one. For maximum security, use the 3-inch screws that come with your kit so they penetrate the door frame stud, not just the jamb. This dramatically increases resistance to forced entry — studies show it can increase kick-in resistance by up to 300%.

Step 8: Test Everything

Close and latch the door, then test the lock with both the new key and the thumb-turn several times. Make sure the bolt extends cleanly into the strike plate opening and retracts smoothly. If there's any sticking or resistance, check alignment and screws before calling the job done.

Lock Upgrade Options for New Homeowners

Moving into a new home is the perfect opportunity to evaluate your entire security setup. Here are some upgrades worth considering beyond the standard deadbolt:

Smart Locks

Smart locks allow keyless entry via a keypad, smartphone app, or biometric fingerprint reader. They're ideal for families with kids, frequent guests, or rental properties. Many models integrate with home automation systems like Google Home or Amazon Alexa. You can issue temporary access codes and revoke them remotely.

High-Security Deadbolts

Brands like Medeco and Mul-T-Lock offer pick-resistant, bump-resistant cylinders with patented keyways that make key duplication nearly impossible without authorization. These are excellent for homeowners who want maximum mechanical security without going keyless.

Sliding Door & Window Locks

Don't forget secondary entry points. Sliding glass doors are frequently targeted by burglars. Add a secondary lock bar and upgrade the cylinder lock on any sliding patio doors. Pin all sliding windows as well.

Door Reinforcement Kits

Even the best deadbolt can fail if the door frame is weak. Door reinforcement kits add heavy-duty strike plate boxes and door edge guards that massively improve kick-in resistance. Pair this with your new deadbolt for a truly secure entry.

Our team at Colourflly Locksmith specializes in smart lock installation and can help you choose and install the right system for your new home.

When to Hire a Professional Locksmith

While many homeowners can handle a basic lock change, there are situations where calling a professional is the smarter move:

• Multiple doors to secure at once: A locksmith can rekey all your locks to work on a single key in one visit
• Damaged or non-standard lock hardware: Older homes may have unusual configurations that require specialized tools
• Smart lock installation: Improper installation can cause connectivity issues or security gaps
• You're unsure about the security level of your current locks: A professional can assess and recommend the right solution
• You've just moved in and don't have time: A locksmith can handle everything in one efficient visit

At Colourflly Locksmith, we specialize in fast, reliable lock changes for new homeowners across the area. Our licensed technicians arrive promptly, assess your existing hardware, and either rekey or replace your locks efficiently. We also provide a full home security assessment at no extra charge. Learn more about our emergency and same-day locksmith services available 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to change locks in a new home?

DIY lock replacement kits typically cost between $25–$150 per lock depending on quality. Professional rekeying usually runs $20–$50 per lock plus a service call fee. Full replacement by a locksmith ranges from $80–$300+ per lock depending on the hardware selected. Rekeying all locks in one visit is typically the most cost-effective option if the existing hardware is in good condition.

Should I change locks before or after moving in?

Ideally, you should change locks on the day you take possession — before you move any belongings in. If that's not possible, do it on your first day in the home. The longer you wait, the longer your home remains potentially accessible to unknown parties.

How many locks should I change in my new home?

At minimum, change or rekey every exterior door lock: front door, back door, side door, and garage entry door if attached. If you have a detached garage with a door leading to the yard or home, secure that as well. Interior locks are generally lower priority unless there are specific safety concerns.

Is rekeying as secure as replacing the lock?

Yes — if the existing lock is in good condition and of adequate quality, rekeying provides the same level of security as full replacement. The new key is the only one that will operate the lock. However, if your locks are old, worn, or low-grade, full replacement with higher-quality hardware is the better investment.

Can I rekey my locks myself?

With a rekeying kit (available at hardware stores for around $20) and some patience, yes — it's possible for handy homeowners. However, the process requires removing the cylinder, using a follower tool, and replacing the pin tumblers correctly. Many homeowners find it easier and more reliable to hire a locksmith, especially when multiple locks need rekeying to the same key.

Do I need to notify my landlord before changing locks?

If you're renting, check your lease first. In most jurisdictions, you can change your locks but may be required to provide your landlord with a copy of the new key. If you own your home outright, there is no obligation to notify anyone.

Final Thoughts: Make Lock Changes Your First Move

Moving into a new home is one of life's biggest milestones. Don't let excitement overshadow a critical security step. Changing locks after moving into a new home is fast, affordable, and absolutely essential for your peace of mind. Whether you tackle it yourself with a new deadbolt from the hardware store or call in a professional to rekey everything in one visit, the important thing is that you do it — and do it right away.

Your home should be your sanctuary. A few hours and a modest investment is all it takes to make sure only the people you trust can walk through the door.

Ready to secure your new home the right way? The licensed professionals at Colourflly Locksmith are available 24/7 to help new homeowners get their locks changed quickly, correctly, and affordably. We serve the local area with fast response times and a commitment to your security. Don't wait — get in touch today.

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