Moving into a new home is exciting, but between unpacking boxes, arranging utilities, updating addresses and getting settled, there is one important security job that can easily be forgotten:
Should you change the locks when you move house?
In many cases, it is worth considering.
When you move into a previously occupied property, you simply don't know how many copies of the existing keys may still be in circulation. Previous owners or tenants may have given spare keys to relatives, neighbours, cleaners, tradespeople or other people over the years.
Changing or reviewing your locks gives you greater control over exactly who can access your new home.
If you've recently moved house in Colchester or the surrounding area, a local locksmith can inspect your existing locks, advise whether they need changing and identify any other obvious security concerns.
Should I Change the Locks When I Move Into a New House?
Changing the locks is one of the simplest ways of taking control of your new property's security.
Even when the previous owner has handed over every key they have, there is no easy way of knowing whether additional copies were made in the past.
Spare keys could potentially have been given to:
Family members
Friends
Neighbours
Cleaners
Dog walkers
Builders and tradespeople
Previous tenants
Managing agents
Contractors
House sitters
That doesn't mean there is necessarily a security problem. However, replacing or updating the locks means you know exactly who has keys from that point onwards.
How Soon Should You Change Your Locks After Moving?
Ideally, checking your locks should be part of your moving-in checklist.
Some homeowners arrange for a locksmith to visit shortly after collecting their keys, while others have the locks inspected during their first few days in the property.
If you're unsure about the condition or security of a particular lock, it makes sense to have it assessed sooner rather than later.
This is particularly important if:
You haven't received as many keys as expected
A lock is difficult to operate
A key sticks or is difficult to turn
A door doesn't close or lock properly
The locks appear particularly old
You've moved into a previously rented property
There are doors for which you haven't been given a key
A locksmith can assess the existing locks and explain what, if anything, needs attention.
Do I Need to Replace the Whole Lock?
Not necessarily.
People sometimes assume changing the locks means replacing the entire door locking system, but this isn't always the case.
Depending on the type and condition of the lock, it may be possible to replace an individual cylinder or another component rather than the complete mechanism.
This is particularly relevant with many modern UPVC and composite doors.
A professional locksmith can identify the type of lock installed and recommend the most appropriate solution rather than automatically replacing everything.
Which Locks Should I Check When Moving House?
The front door is the obvious place to start, but it shouldn't be the only one.
When moving into a new home, it is worth checking every accessible entrance.
Front Door
Check that the lock operates smoothly, the keys work correctly and the door locks securely without needing excessive force.
Back Door
Back doors can sometimes receive less attention than the main entrance despite providing direct access to the property.
Make sure you've received the keys and that the locking mechanism works properly.
UPVC and Composite Doors
Many properties around Colchester have UPVC or composite entrance doors using multi-point locking systems.
If the handle feels unusually stiff, the key is difficult to turn or you have to lift, push or pull the door excessively to make it lock, it may be worth having the mechanism inspected.
Patio and French Doors
Check all patio, sliding and French doors carefully.
Make sure they close correctly, lock securely and that you have keys for any locks fitted.
Garage Doors
If the garage provides access to your house, its security is particularly important. Check any locks and make sure previous keys or remote controls are accounted for.
Side Gates and Outbuildings
Don't forget garages, sheds, workshops and other external buildings containing tools, bicycles or other valuable belongings.
What About Window Locks?
While you're checking your new home's security, it's sensible to inspect the windows too.
Check that accessible windows close and lock correctly and that you have keys where required.
A window that won't lock properly shouldn't simply be ignored, particularly on the ground floor or in an easily accessible location.
If you have faulty UPVC window locks or mechanisms, a locksmith may be able to repair them without requiring replacement of the complete window.
What If My New UPVC Door Won't Lock Properly?
This is a common problem in both older and newer properties.
A UPVC or composite door that is becoming difficult to lock could have several potential causes, including:
Door misalignment
A worn cylinder
Problems with the multi-point locking mechanism
A failing gearbox
Worn handles
General wear and tear
Avoid repeatedly forcing the key or handle.
If something doesn't feel right, having it inspected early may prevent the mechanism from failing completely and leaving you unable to lock the door—or potentially locked out.
Should Landlords Change Locks Between Tenants?
Landlords and letting agents may also want to consider the security of locks when tenants change.
Keys can accumulate over the lifetime of a rental property, particularly when several tenants have occupied it.
Reviewing the locks between tenancies can help landlords understand who has access to the property and identify worn or unreliable locks before the next tenant moves in.
A locksmith can inspect the property's locks and recommend appropriate changes where required.
What If I've Just Moved In and I'm Already Locked Out?
Unfortunately, moving day can be chaotic.
Keys get misplaced, doors close unexpectedly and unfamiliar locking mechanisms can cause problems.
If you find yourself locked out of your new home, avoid forcing the door or attempting to break the lock yourself.
An emergency locksmith may be able to gain access while minimising unnecessary damage and can inspect the lock afterwards if there appears to be an underlying fault.
Is Moving House a Good Time for a Security Check?
Yes.
Moving home provides an ideal opportunity to look at the property with fresh eyes.
A locksmith security consultation can help identify issues you may not have noticed during viewings, such as:
Old or worn locks
Poorly operating doors
Inadequate locking mechanisms
Faulty window locks
Vulnerable access points
Doors that don't close or align correctly
Locks that may benefit from upgrading
Not every lock necessarily needs replacing.
The objective should be to understand what you currently have, identify potential weaknesses and decide which improvements are worthwhile.
New Home Security Checklist
If you've recently moved, it's worth taking a few minutes to check:
Have you received keys for every external door?
Do all doors lock and unlock smoothly?
Do you know how many copies of each key exist?
Do patio and French doors lock securely?
Are accessible windows locking correctly?
Are garage and outbuilding locks working?
Are any keys bent, cracked or badly worn?
Are any doors difficult to close or align?
Are there locks you're unsure how to operate?
Would you benefit from a professional security assessment?
Finding a problem now is usually preferable to discovering it when you're trying to leave the house, secure the property at night or deal with an emergency.
Local Locksmith for New Homeowners in Colchester
GPM Locksmith provides professional locksmith services for homeowners, landlords and businesses across Colchester and the surrounding areas.
If you've recently moved and would like your locks checked, repaired or replaced, we can assess your existing security and recommend appropriate options for your property.
We provide locksmith services across areas including:
Colchester
Wivenhoe
Ardleigh
Dedham
Great Horkesley
Manningtree
Tiptree
Brightlingsea
Harwich
Clacton
And surrounding villages across North Essex
Whether you need a straightforward lock change, help with a faulty UPVC door mechanism or advice about your property's overall security, we're here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Locks After Moving House
Should I change my locks when I buy a house?
It's worth considering because you may not know how many copies of the existing keys have been made previously. Having the locks reviewed or changed gives you greater control over who has access to your property.
Do I need to change every lock?
Not necessarily. A locksmith can inspect your existing locks and advise which are suitable to keep and which may benefit from repair, upgrading or replacement.
Can a locksmith change the locks on a UPVC door?
Yes. Depending on the problem and type of locking system, it may be possible to replace the cylinder or another component without replacing the complete door.
Can I have my locks changed on moving day?
Depending on availability, a locksmith may be able to arrange a visit around your move. If security is a priority, it's worth organising this in advance where possible.
Should I change locks after buying a previously rented property?
It can be particularly worthwhile considering because multiple tenants and other people may have had keys over the years.
Can a locksmith check the security of my whole property?
Yes. A security consultation can help identify issues with doors, locks, windows and other access points and provide recommendations based on the property.
Just Moved House in Colchester? Talk to GPM Locksmith
If you've recently moved into a new home in Colchester or the surrounding area, don't overlook your locks.
A straightforward security check can help identify worn or faulty mechanisms and give you greater confidence about who has access to your new property.
Contact GPM Locksmith today to discuss changing your locks, repairing an existing lock or arranging a security consultation for your new home.
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