Your home is your sanctuary—where you and your loved ones should feel safe and protected. But that sense of security can be compromised if your door locks are outdated, damaged, or potentially accessible to someone who shouldn’t have a key. Many homeowners don’t think about changing their locks until something goes wrong. However, knowing the signs can help you take proactive steps before your security is at risk.
5 Clear Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Change the Locks at Your Home
Here are five clear signs that it’s time to change—or at least rekey—the locks on your home.
1. You’ve Lost Your Keys or They’ve Been Stolen
This is one of the most common and urgent reasons to change your locks. If your keys are lost or stolen, you simply can’t be sure who might have them. Even if you believe they’re just misplaced, there’s always the risk that someone finds them and knows which property they belong to.
In such situations, you have two main options:
- Rekeying the locks: This involves changing the internal mechanism of the lock so the old key no longer works.
- Replacing the locks: A new lock altogether is installed, often an opportunity to upgrade your security.
Both options provide peace of mind and eliminate the risk of unauthorized access.
2. You’ve Moved into a New Home
Whether it’s a newly built property or one with previous owners, changing the locks when you move in should be a priority. Even if the former residents or construction teams seem trustworthy, there’s no way to know how many duplicate keys may be out there—or who might have access.
Real estate agents, contractors, maintenance workers, or former tenants could still have copies of your keys. Replacing or rekeying the locks is a simple step that ensures only you and your family control access to your home.
3. You’ve Experienced a Break-In or Attempted Burglary
A break-in is a clear violation of your space and safety. Even if the burglar didn’t use a key to enter, your locks may have been picked, forced, or otherwise compromised. After such an event, it’s not only about repairing physical damage but also restoring your peace of mind.
Changing the locks by hiring professional locksmiths in Bishop’s Stortford reassures you that your home is secure again. In some cases, upgrading to high-security or smart locks can provide added protection and better control over who enters your home in the future.
4. Your Locks Are Worn Out or Difficult to Use
Over time, even high-quality locks can wear down. Exposure to the elements, frequent use, and lack of maintenance can lead to issues such as:
- Difficulty inserting or turning the key
- Rust or visible wear
- Loose or broken components
- Keys that only work intermittently
These signs not only make everyday access frustrating but also signal potential vulnerabilities. Worn-out locks are easier for intruders to manipulate or force open. If your locks are no longer functioning smoothly, it’s time to replace them before they become a serious liability.
5. You’ve Had a Change in Occupancy or Relationships
There are many situations in which someone who once had access to your home no longer should:
- A roommate has moved out
- A relationship has ended
- A tenant has vacated your rental property
- A caregiver or employee is no longer in your service
Even if things ended on good terms, it’s best to be cautious. You can’t always be certain whether someone made a spare copy of the key. In these cases, rekeying your locks is a quick and affordable way to restrict access without needing entirely new hardware—though a full replacement is also an option if you’re looking to upgrade.
Bonus Tip: When to Upgrade Your Locks Instead of Rekeying
Rekeying is usually faster and more cost-effective, but it doesn’t address outdated or low-security locks. You should consider full lock replacement if:
- Your current locks are over 10–15 years old
- You want to switch to keyless or smart locks
- You’re upgrading other aspects of your home’s security system
Modern locks offer features like keypad entry, smartphone control, and even biometric access. These options enhance security and make life more convenient, especially for busy households or those who frequently have visitors or service providers.
Final Thoughts
Changing the locks on your home isn’t just about reacting to emergencies—it’s about staying one step ahead and making informed choices to protect your property and loved ones. Whether you’ve lost a key, moved into a new home, or simply want greater control over access, replacing or rekeying your locks is a smart investment in your home’s safety.
If you’re unsure whether your locks need to be changed or rekeyed, consult a certified local locksmith in Harlow. They can assess your current setup, recommend the best solution, and help you feel confident in your home’s security again.