As a homeowner, you have to take measures to prevent break-ins. Additionally, you need to familiarize yourself with the most subtle and obvious signs that your home was burglarized. Here’s a quick guide to help you spot if someone has tampered with your locks and if you need a locksmith to replace them.

How to Tell If Your Lock Has Been Tampered With

1. Difficulty Turning the Key

If your key was able to lock your doors with ease upon leaving your home but struggled to unlock them on your return, it might be a sign of pin deformation. This is a common occurrence when burglars try to break the lock with a bump key, which is a sawed-down key. Experienced thieves leave little visible trace with this method, but sometimes, they produce scratches or metal wear around the edge of the keyhole. This damage appears like typical key wear to most homeowners, but a professional locksmith can tell the difference.

2. Visible Marks

Usually, scuffs and dents around the keyhole are the quickest giveaways that someone attempted to pick your lock or was successful breaking in. If the burglar was heavy-handed with the break-in, it’s possible there may be wood splintering or warping around the frame. If the lock was moved, you might also spot paint circles and a bent deadbolt or latch.

3. Missing Spares

If you came home and felt like objects had been moved, or some things were missing, but noticed no signs of forced entry, your lock may have been accessed by a spare key. Check the spare’s hiding spots, and contact individuals who have a copy to see if one or more are missing. If you have a compromised key, contact a locksmith to immediately re-key or replace the locks around your home.

 

If you suspect your door locks were tampered with, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at Ultra Lock and Key in Honolulu, HI. These 24-hour locksmiths provide residential, commercial, and automotive services to customers throughout Oahu. They use the latest industry tools and techniques to ensure accurate and effective performance at every job. Call (808) 675-1522 for lock repairs, or visit their website to learn more about their residential services.