Moving into a new home is an exciting fresh start, but amidst unpacking and decorating, a crucial security measure is often overlooked: changing the door locks. While it may seem minor or an unnecessary expense, replacing the locks on your new property is a really important step to secure your home and ensure peace of mind moving forward.
It’s tempting to assume that once you have the keys to your new home, that they are exclusively yours. However, this is rarely the case. Your property has a history, and with that comes a list of individuals who may have held keys at some point.
Previous Owners & Occupants: Former residents, whether owners or tenants, may still have old keys. Perhaps they kept a spare set, or gave one to a family member or trusted neighbour. You simply cannot account for every key that was ever cut.
Tradespeople & Service Providers: Surveyors, builders, cleaners, or even garden maintenance services might have been given keys for access prior to your purchase.
Lost or Stolen Keys: The previous owner might have lost a set of keys, or had them stolen, and never replaced the locks. You could be unknowingly inheriting a significant security vulnerability.
The reality is, without changing the locks, you have no absolute guarantee that your new home is truly secure. This lack of control over who possesses keys to your property presents an unacceptable risk.
Changing locks doesn’t just fix the problem of ensuring nobody has access to your property anymore, but upgrading to new, high-quality, insurance-approved locks significantly enhances your home's resilience against forced entry.
How much does it cost to change locks on a property?
The cost of changing locks is often perceived as a barrier for new homeowners. However, when weighed against the potential financial and emotional cost of a break-in, it represents itself as a worthwhile investment.
The costs for replacing locks in and around your new home can vary due to a number of factors. But a basic cylinder lock for a uPVC door might cost £20-£50, whereas a more robust multi-point locking system or a high-security mortice lock for a timber door could range from £80 to £200 or more per lock. For properties with multiple external doors, the total cost can accumulate, but many homeowners prioritise replacing locks on primary entry points first.
When it comes to changing your locks, you generally have two options: a do-it-yourself approach or hiring a professional tradesperson.
For individuals with basic DIY skills and common tools, replacing certain lock types, such as Euro cylinder locks prevalent in uPVC doors, can be a straightforward task. Numerous online resources and tutorials can guide you through the process, which typically involves removing a retaining screw, sliding out the old cylinder, and inserting the new one.
This method is cost-effective, as you only pay for the new locks. However, it's crucial to ensure you purchase the correct size and type of cylinder. Incorrectly fitted locks can compromise security or even damage the door mechanism, which will cost you more in the long run!
For more complex lock types, such as mortice locks on wooden doors, multi-point locking systems, or if you lack confidence in your DIY abilities, engaging a professional locksmith is advisable.
A reputable locksmith possesses the expertise to assess your current security, recommend appropriate locks for your specific doors and windows, and ensure proper, secure installation. While you will incur labour costs, typically ranging from £60-£150 per hour, the assurance of a professionally installed, high-security locking system around your property is invaluable.
For residents in the local area, Kew Locksmith Southport comes highly recommended as a trusted local locksmith who can assist with all your lock replacement needs. Nick can help with your locksmithing needs no matter how big or small the job is.
Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but overlooking the security of your new property is something here at Anthony James Estate Agents we urge that you don’t do. The need to upgrade your security is really important, given the uncertainty surrounding previous key holders in addition to the potential for existing locks to be outdated or compromised.
Whether you choose a DIY solution for simpler locks or hire a professional locksmith for more complex systems, investing in new locks is an investment in your safety, security, and ultimately, your peace of mind in your new property.
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