Top Reasons to Hire a Locksmith

A home's locks are the key to its security. However, many people don't know when they need to change the locks on their home. While this process isn't an upgrade that every homeowner needs to make right away, take a look at the top times when changing or re-keying your home's locks is necessary.

You're Moving In

Unless you're building a new construction, moving into a new home comes with some of the previous owner's baggage. If the sellers retained a set of keys or gave copies to friends, families, contractors, or anyone else, your safety is potentially in jeopardy.

While it's not guaranteed that someone else would use a copy of an existing key to break in, taking that chance is something that many new homeowners aren't willing to do. After the closing, contact a qualified locksmith to replace all entry locks.

You're In-Between Renters

Home safety is important to everyone who lives in a home - and not just owners. Home renters want to know that they have a safe, secure environment. If you're a landlord, replacing the locks in between tenants adds an extra layer of security.

Again, you don't know who has a copy of the existing key. While you may have specifically said (or added to your lease contract) that the renter can't copy the key, they may have done so anyway. Avoid potential liability issues, and hire a locksmith to switch out the locks before your new tenant moves in. This step also protects you during the time the rental remains vacant.

Your Home Was Burglarized

In 2017 there were more than 7.6 million property crimes, according to the FBI. Increasing your home security following a burglary is a priority. Depending on the crime and the level of vandalism, this security update may include replacing damaged doors and locks. A locksmith can remove and replace damaged entry locks.

Even though entry damage is a major reason for hiring a locksmith post-burglary, it isn't the only one. Upgrading your home's security with a new locking system or a deadbolt can add comfort and a higher degree of security.

You Lost Your Keys

Losing your keys presents a two-fold problem. You can't gain entry to your home without a key, but whoever finds or stole them can. Never attempt to force open your door. This could cause damage to the doorknob or the door itself.

A locksmith can help you to get back into your home by replacing the entry locks in a pinch. Beyond giving you entry back into your home, the locksmith can change the locks. This service makes it impossible for someone who found or stole your keys to use them.

You're Remodeling Your Home

If your home upgrade includes replacing or renovating the entry doors, you'll need new locks too. Unless you're experienced in home remodeling, you'll need to hire a contractor for your new doors. If you hire a professional to replace the doors, it makes sense to also hire an expert to add new locks.

Schedule a locksmith service to replace locks, add deadbolts, or help you to install additional security solutions. Coordinate the lock installation with the door installation to keep your home security constant.

Your Locks Have Excessive Wear

Locks won't last forever. Over time the lock may wear with use, rust, or simply stop working correctly. If your lock doesn't look or work well, replace it.

It's ideal to replace a lock before excessive wear completely breaks it down. However, if your lock suddenly stops working, a locksmith can remove your old, worn lock and install a brand-new one.

Do you have one of these common lock-related issues? Contact 1st Quality Lock & Key for more information on an upgrade.