Why You Should Rekey Locks After Moving Into A New Home
Hey there, new homeowner! Or maybe you’re just daydreaming about that fresh-start feeling of unlocking your front door for the first time. Either way, let’s talk about something most of us forget in the chaos of moving: rekeying those locks. Sure, you’ve got boxes to unpack, walls to paint, and a fridge that’s mysteriously humming like it’s plotting something. But trust us—skipping the rekey is like leaving your Netflix password on a Post-it for the previous owners. Awkward? Definitely. Risky? Oh yeah.
At LALA Locksmiths here in Los Angeles, we’ve seen it all. From folks who accidentally locked themselves out while yelling at movers (we’re looking at you, DIY warriors) to landlords scrambling for eviction locksmith services after a tenant “forgot” to return their keys. Let’s break down why rekeying should be your first move—literally—and how it’s way less hassle than you think.
Why Rekeying Should Be at the Top of Your Moving Checklist
Picture this: You’re sipping coffee in your new living room when…jingle. Someone’s at the door. It’s the previous owner’s cousin’s dog walker, here to “grab something they left behind.” Awkward? Sure. Dangerous? Absolutely. Rekeying your locks ensures that you’re the only one with access—no surprise guests, no “oops, I forgot I gave a key to the gardener in 2012.”
Here’s the kicker:
- Previous owners or tenants might’ve handed out keys like candy.
- Contractors, cleaners, or realtors could still have copies.
- That “hidden” key under the fake rock? Yeah, everyone knows about it.
FYI, rekeying doesn’t mean replacing the entire lock. A pro door lock technician just tweaks the internal pins so old keys no longer work. It’s faster, cheaper, and way less drama than swapping hardware.
The Risks of Skipping the Rekey (Spoiler: It’s Not Just About Burglars)
“But the sellers seemed nice!” Sure, and maybe they were. But what about the other people who had access? Let’s get real:
- Liability issues: If someone uses an old key to wander in and trip over your unpacked boxes, you could be on the hook.
- Squatter surprises: Ever heard horror stories about evictions? An eviction locksmith isn’t cheap, folks.
- That one neighbor who “just wants to borrow sugar” but somehow has a key from 1998.
We once helped a client in Los Angeles who found out the hard way—their Airbnb tenant made copies before checkout. Cue a frantic call for emergency locksmith services at 2 a.m. Don’t be that person.
How Rekeying Works (No, It’s Not Magic…But Close)
Rekeying is like a secret handshake for your lock. Here’s the breakdown:
- A door lock mechanic removes the lock cylinder.
- They reset the pins inside to match a new key.
- Voilà! Old keys become useless, and you get shiny new ones.
Bonus: You can keep your existing hardware (goodbye, ugly brass from the ’80s). Most jobs take under 30 minutes per lock. Need a mobile locksmith? We’ll come to you—coffee in hand.
DIY vs. Pro: Why You Probably Shouldn’t YouTube This One
Look, we get it. You’ve mastered IKEA furniture and even fixed the Wi-Fi router. But rekeying? IMO, it’s like trying to cut your own hair. Possible? Sure. Advisable? Hard pass.
Why hire a pro?
- Tools: Specialty kits cost more than just hiring us.
- Time: One wrong pin, and you’re locked out.
- Guarantees: If our residential lockout service rescues you, we’ll laugh with you, not at you.
Rekeying vs. Replacement: Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Rekeying | Lock Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $20–$50 per lock | $80–$300+ per lock |
| Time | 15–30 minutes per lock | 30–60 minutes per lock |
| Security | Updates existing system | Fresh hardware = stronger security |
| Best For | Trustworthy existing locks | Outdated or damaged locks |
Still unsure? Hit up LALA Locksmiths for honest advice. No upsells, just solutions.
“But Wait, What About…?” Your Top Questions, Answered
Q: Is rekeying cheaper than replacing locks?
A: 99% of the time, yes. Unless your lock looks like it survived a zombie apocalypse, rekeying’s the wallet-friendly pick.
Q: Can I rekey myself?
A: Technically, yes. But unless you’ve got a PhD in lock-pinning, expect frustration. And possibly a call to our emergency locksmith team.
Q: How long does it take?
A: For a pro? Less time than it takes to binge one episode of your favorite show.
Beyond Homes: Don’t Forget These Spots!
Rekeying isn’t just for houses. Check these often-overlooked spots:
- Garages, sheds, or gates: Burglars love “hidden” entry points.
- Office spaces: Commercial lock repair keeps your business safe too.
- Cars: Old key fobs still work? Let’s talk auto door lock repair.
The LALA Locksmiths Promise: No Drama, Just Solutions
We’re a Los Angeles staple for a reason. Whether you need door lock repair services, a safe locksmith, or just peace of mind, our team’s got your back. Fun fact: We’ve even rekeyed locks for a movie set (no spoilers, but someone kept stealing prop coffee mugs).
Final Thought: Be Smarter Than the Fake Rock
Rekeying isn’t paranoia—it’s practicality. Why gamble with your safety when a quick fix lets you sleep soundly? So, next time you’re Googling “locksmith near me,” skip the randos. Call LALA Locksmiths instead. We’ll handle the locks. You handle the unpacking. Deal?
P.S. If you’re reading this at 3 a.m. because you just realized your locks are older than your new avocado-green fridge…we’re here for you. 24/7. No judgment :).
