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When Should You Change Your Locks?
Locks do not need changing on a schedule, but there are clear moments when they should be. Here are the common ones in Durham, NC and what to do for each.
Times it makes sense to change or rekey your locks
The simple test is this: could anyone you do not know about open this door? If yes, it is time to rekey or change the lock.
Rekeying is often enough. Replace the lock if it is damaged or weak. See rekey or replace your locks for how to choose.
Eight common reasons
Any of these is a good reason to call.
You just moved in
You do not know who has a key: the previous owner, tenants, agents or contractors. Change or rekey every exterior lock.
A key was lost or stolen
Rekey so the missing key no longer works.
A break-in or attempt
Replace damaged locks and doors. Rekey the rest.
A breakup or roommate moves out
Rekey so former partners and roommates cannot get in.
Tenants change
Rekey between tenants. Landlords commonly do this at every turnover.
An employee leaves
For businesses, re-key or change locks when staff with keys leave. See business lock re-key.
The lock is worn out
If it sticks, jams or is hard to turn, replace it before it fails.
You want better security
Upgrade to a stronger deadbolt or a keypad. See high-security locks.
Not sure whether yours counts? Call and describe it. We will tell you honestly.
What to do each time
A short plan that works for homes and businesses.
Count your doors
Exterior doors, garage entry, patio doors and any shed or gate. Tell us how many.
Decide on one key
Many locks can be set to the same key so you carry one, not five.
Pick the hardware
Keep the hardware and rekey, or replace it. See house lock change.
Keep track of copies
Know who has keys. Fewer copies means fewer surprises.
Other times to check your locks
These are not emergencies, but they are good prompts:
- A contractor, house sitter or cleaner had a key and you want it back to just you.
- A key was copied somewhere and you do not know where the copy is.
- You are selling the home and want the new owner to start fresh.
- The lock has simply been in place for many years.
Our services: house lock re-key, house lock change, business lock re-key, business lock change.
Lock change and rekey service by town
We come to you in Durham, Chapel Hill and nearby Wake County. Find your town:
Changing Your Locks: Questions
How often should I change my locks?
There is no set schedule. Change or rekey them when the situation changes: moving in, lost keys, a break-in, a breakup, new tenants or worn hardware.
Should I change my locks when I buy a house?
Yes. You do not know who has a key to a home you did not live in before. Rekeying is a simple and common fix.
Can I change my own locks?
Some locks are easy to swap yourself. A locksmith makes sure the bolt lines up, the keys match and the lock is tested before we leave.
Can you do several doors in one visit?
Yes. Tell us how many doors and we will quote the whole job before we start.
How much will it cost?
The price depends on the job, your vehicle or lock, and where you are. Call (919) 769-3432, tell us what is going on, and you will hear the price before we start work.
What are your hours?
We work 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, seven days a week.
Do you serve my town?
Durham Locksmith serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Morrisville, Research Triangle Park, Cary and Apex, plus Knightdale, Wake Forest, Fuquay-Varina, Clayton, Zebulon and Garner in NC.
Ready to Change Your Locks?
Call Durham Locksmith, tell us how many doors, and we will quote the job before we start.
(919) 769-3432