Few activities are more exciting than finalizing the purchase of a new home. It’s likely you’ll want to start unpacking and decorating right away; however, before moving day arrives, it’s essential to rekey the property. A locksmith will change the pattern of the pins in the locks, so old keys will no longer work in them. This is one of the most effective ways to increase your home security, and it offers other benefits as well. Here are some of the top reasons to have a home rekeyed after you buy it. 

Why You Should Rekey the Locks Before Moving Into a New House 

1. Many People Might Have Keys 

Whether you purchase from previous owners or move into a custom home, there is the possibility that any number of people could have keys to the property. The last residents may have given out multiple copies to relatives, friends, and neighbors. Keys are also given to subcontractors while a home is being built. You don’t want to risk a stranger having access to your home at any time.  

2. It Offers Convenience & Saves Money

Aside from making your home safer, rekeying the locks provides added convenience. You can have all of your exterior locks rekeyed to open with the same key. This prevents you from having to carry around a weighty key ring, and you will only have a single key to keep track of. Also, rekeying your locks will cost far less than completely replacing them. 

3. You’ll Avoid a Denied Home Insurance Claim

If you need to file a home insurance claim due to a break-in, there’s a good chance your provider will investigate to determine if the loss was avoidable. Typically, they frown upon policyholders who neglect to rekey a home before moving in. If there are no signs of forcible entry, they may assert your negligence was the underlying cause of the theft and decide to deny your claim.

Rekeying the locks should be standard procedure before getting settled into any new residence. If you need a reputable locksmith to help protect your property and family, contact A-Okay Lock & Key. They have more than three decades of experience providing homeowners throughout St. Charles County, MO, with a full range of lock and key solutions. They are also available 24 hours a day to assist in emergency situations. Call (636) 441-1190 to schedule a time to rekey your home, or visit their website for more information on the various services they offer.