After all the paperwork, inspections, and waiting on escrow, it feels satisfying when you are finally handed the keys to your new home. And yet, in spite of the symbolic gesture, locks are not typically changed before a new owner takes over, and even if they are, you don’t know how many other people may have a set. Therefore, for your family’s safety and the security of your belongings, consider calling a locksmith to come out and rekey the locks in the house.

How Rekeying Works

You are faced with two decisions after purchasing a new home—purchasing new locking hardware or rekeying the locks.  Changing the locks involves new handles, new plates, and possibly altering the door frame to make room for the new hardware while rekeying just involves the locking mechanism. A locksmith takes the lock from the handle and removes the old pins. New pins are added to match a new key, and the old lock is placed back into the handle. As a result, this process is more affordable and less time consuming than switching out the hardware, while providing just as much security.

Reasons to Rekey the Locks

Although you now own the house, there’s no telling who has access. The past owners may have given copies out to family members, the dog walker, friends, a babysitter, and who knows who else. Also, when a locksmith rekeys the locks, it may be possible to make them all match one key. This way you don’t have multiple keys to fumble with.

If you need a locksmith to rekey your new home, call Lincoln Lock & Safe. Since 1965, our professionals have helped area residents by offering lock repair, new installations, and rekeying services. We respond to emergencies 24/7 and have an extensive showroom of safes to protect your valuables. To schedule a visit, call us at (402) 475-0002 or go online.