Why You Should Rekey Your Locks When You Move

You’ve signed the papers and the boxes are in. Before you settle in, ask yourself one question: who else has a key to this place?

Who else might have a key

Even when a seller or landlord says every key was handed over, copies tend to drift. Past owners give spares to neighbors, dog walkers and family. Listing agents, inspectors, cleaners and contractors pass keys around during a sale. In a rental, previous tenants may have cut copies of their own. You can’t collect what you don’t know exists.

What rekeying actually does

A pin-tumbler lock has small pins that line up when the right key is inserted. Rekeying replaces those pins with a new set, so a new key works and every old key doesn’t. The lock body, handles and finish stay exactly as they are. It usually takes a few minutes per lock.

Cost compared with new locks

Because you keep the hardware, rekeying costs much less than replacing. The Bradenton price list shows rekeys starting at $19.00 per lock and basic lock changes starting at $25.00, plus the $29 trip charge. The coupon sheet also offers a fifth rekey free when you rekey four. A move-in is when most people use it.

One key for every door

If your exterior locks share a brand and keyway, they can all be rekeyed to the same key. Front door, garage entry, back door and side gate on one key ring. Mixed brands can often be fitted with matching cylinders.

If you rent

Florida law doesn’t require landlords to rekey between tenants, but many do when asked. Ask before you move in, and offer to split the cost if needed. Don’t change locks without permission. Your lease may require the landlord to hold a key.

When to replace instead

Rekeying is right when the locks work smoothly and you’re happy with them. Replace when a lock is worn, loose, damaged, a light builder-grade model, or when you want a keypad or smart lock. If you’re replacing anyway, choose an ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt for exterior doors.

Other times to rekey

• After renovation work, once contractors are finished
• When a roommate or partner moves out
• After you lose a key that has your address on it
• When a cleaner, sitter or property manager stops working for you

Rekeying is quick and cheap, and you’ll know exactly who can open your door. Call 941-676-3448 to book, or see the residential locksmith page.