How Often Should You Change Your Home’s Locks?

There’s no single timeline for changing your home’s locks, but you should update them anytime security is compromised or access changes. Most locksmiths recommend rekeying or changing locks after moving into a new home, losing keys, experiencing a break-in, or when locks show signs of wear. In fact, home security surveys show that nearly 70% of homeowners have no idea how many copies of their house keys are in circulation, which is why proactive lock updates are one of the simplest ways to improve safety.

“Locks don’t expire on a calendar, but access does. Anytime you’re unsure who might have a key, it’s time to rekey or replace your locks.” - KeyMe Locksmiths

Why Lock Changes Matter More Than You Think

Your locks are the first line of defense for your home. Over time, keys get copied, hardware wears down, and life changes introduce new access risks.

According to crime prevention studies, a significant percentage of residential break-ins involve no forced entry, meaning the door was unlocked or the intruder had a key.

When You Should Change or Rekey Your Locks

1. After Moving Into a New Home

This is the most important time to change or rekey your locks.

Why It Matters

• Previous owners
• Real estate agents
• Contractors
• Cleaners
• Neighbors

Any of them could still have a copy. Nearly 8 in 10 locksmiths recommend rekeying immediately after moving, even if the locks appear new.

Best option: Rekey all exterior doors.

Learn about rekeying services: https://key.me/locksmiths 

2. When Keys Are Lost or Stolen

If you can’t account for a missing key, your security is compromised.

What Locksmiths Recommend

• Rekey locks as soon as possible
• Replace locks if damage is suspected

Waiting increases the risk of unauthorized entry, especially if the lost key is labeled or connected to your address.

3. After a Break-In or Attempted Break-In

Even if the intruder didn’t use a key, the lock may be weakened.

Why Replacement Is Often Best

• Internal pins may be damaged
• The lock’s integrity may be compromised
• Security standards may no longer be met

“After a break-in, replacing the lock, not just rekeying, restores confidence and physical security.” - KeyMe Locksmiths

4. When Tenants, Roommates, or Contractors Leave

Shared access situations are common risk points.

Recommended Action

• Rekey locks whenever someone with a key moves out
• Especially important for rentals and shared homes

Property managers who rekey between tenants reduce unauthorized access incidents by over 50%.

5. When Locks Are Old, Loose, or Hard to Turn

Locks wear out, even if keys still work.

Warning Signs

• Keys stick or jam
• Lock feels loose or wobbly
• You need to jiggle the key
• Door doesn’t latch smoothly

These issues increase the chance of lock failure or lockouts.

Lock repair & replacement services: https://key.me/locksmith-repair-install 

6. When Upgrading Home Security

Sometimes, it’s not about necessity, it’s about improvement.

Common Upgrade Reasons

• Switching to smart locks
• Adding keypad access
• Installing high-security deadbolts
• Improving resistance to picking or forced entry

Upgrading locks can significantly improve convenience and control, especially for families or short-term rentals.

How Often Do Locksmiths Recommend Updating Locks?

While there’s no strict rule, general guidance includes:

• Every move-in: Rekey
• Every lost key: Rekey immediately
• Every 5–7 years: Inspect locks for wear
• Any sign of damage or tampering: Replace

Homeowners who proactively rekey or replace locks experience fewer emergency lockouts and security incidents over time.

Rekeying vs. Replacing: Which Do You Need?

Rekeying is typically 40–60% less expensive than full lock replacement.

Can You Change Locks Too Often?

No, security updates never reduce safety. However, unnecessary replacements can increase costs.

That’s why locksmiths often recommend rekeying first, replacing only when hardware is damaged or outdated.

When to Call a Professional Locksmith

A professional locksmith can:

• Evaluate your current locks
• Rekey or replace multiple doors efficiently
• Install deadbolts or smart locks
• Improve door alignment and strike plates
• Ensure everything operates smoothly

Residential locksmith services: /residential-locksmith/
Lock installation & repair: /lock-installation/

FAQs

Should I change locks even if I trust the previous owner?

Yes. You can’t know how many copies exist.

How long does rekeying take?

Most homes can be rekeyed in under an hour.

Do smart locks still need rekeying?

Some do; others reset digitally. A locksmith can advise.

Is rekeying enough for home security?

In most cases, yes—if the lock hardware is in good condition.

Final Thoughts: Change Locks When Access Changes

The safest rule of thumb is simple: change or rekey your locks anytime access changes or security is uncertain. It’s one of the fastest, most affordable ways to protect your home and gain peace of mind.

Need help deciding? Call KeyMe Locksmiths 24/7
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