Call us at (240) 205-9039
Nothing can match the thrill of signing closing papers for a new house. You can’t ignore changing the locks on your list of things to do when you’re closing the deal on a brand-new house.
You can’t be sure how many copies the previous owner made of your keys. It’s vital to change the locks. A locksmith can do the job quickly and securely while you take care of other tasks.
Why You Should Change Your Locks
We recommend changing locks or rekeying locks whenever safety and security is at risk. The most frequent situations that require the locks to change are:
- You have just purchased a house.
- You may have been the victim of a burglary or break-in.
- You can rent out your property for vacations.
- When a key is stolen or missing.
- When an employee is terminated because they are disgruntled.
- You need to be prepared when you have a messy divorce.
- If the lock is damaged.
- If a new owner of a building wants to restrict or hinder access for those who have old keys.
- If the locks are not changed in years, particularly for retail spaces and businesses where duplicate keys are often exchanged.
Change the Locks on Your New House
When planning to hire a locksmith to change the locks in a home that is new to you or a new one, there are a few things to consider.
Plan the Lock Change in Advance
You can save both time and money by scheduling a lock change appointment in advance. Calling ahead allows the locksmith to prepare new locks and make new keys in the shop prior to our arrival. It is often cheaper and quicker to prepare the locks and new keys in the shop than on-site.
Wait a Day After Closing
New homeowners want to change their locks as soon as they can, but we suggest waiting until a day or two after the closing. We hope that our customers closings are smooth, but it is not unusual for issues to delay the process. To ensure that the sale is completed, it’s best to book the locksmith for the next day.
Call us at (240) 205-9039
Keep the Right Information Handy
To help you streamline the process, here’s what you need to provide the locksmith when you make the call.
Change the number of locks
How many doors lead into the house? Think about the back and side doors, sliding windows, and garage.
Types of Lock
What type of lock is currently installed? Does the lock come with the knob? Does the deadbolt have a?
Budget
Are you looking for a more affordable solution? Do the keys only change hands temporarily? Consider rekeying existing locks instead of replacing them.
Security
Does the level of security in your home meet your needs? Ask the locksmith for a recommendation on a suitable solution. Installing deadbolts, or upgrading to a smart security system may be an option.
This information will help you hire a professional locksmith to replace the locks in your new house.
The Cost of Changing Locks Is Affected by Several Factors
Professional locksmiths are able to replace lock systems in homes and businesses with ease. There are many factors to take into consideration when estimating the total cost of this service.
- Purchase New Locks – The property owner can select and buy their own locks and hardware, and the locksmith only charges for installation. You can also consult a locksmith to get advice on the best hardware for securing a building, and then have them order or provide the materials. This option will clearly include the price of the parts that are installed.
- The Complexity of the Lock There are many locks and hardware options available. The price of locks varies depending on the type of material, manufacturer, and complexity. The cost of a lock depends on its type, whether it is a mortise or interchangeable core cylinder lock or if you choose ‘high-security lock.
- Modifications of the Door – If the work includes modifying the frame or door, there will be additional labor costs. You may need to do extra work to fit the new lock model if you choose to change the style of the door. The same dimensions and design of the lock should not require additional labor.
- Locks under Warranty– Professional installation, repairs, and replacements, unlike a DIY project, are guaranteed. A reliable locksmith can extend the warranty of the hardware manufacturer and guarantee their work. It gives businesses and homeowners extra peace of mind if there are any problems with the locks in the future.
- The Number of Locks– Logically, each lock that is used should be replaced. The price of the job will depend on how many locks are replaced. Note the types of locks involved. In general, not all residential or commercial doors use the same type of lock.
- The number of copies of keys required In a commercial office or business, there are many people who need to access the building. The number of copies and keys required will have to be added to the total.
Call us at (240) 205-9039
Rekeying vs. Replace the Lock
Rekey or replace? It’s ultimately your decision. You might think it’s cheaper to buy replacement locks at the hardware store, install them yourself, and then go back and get more. But that isn’t always the case. Costs of rekeying versus changing locks will vary depending on the type and grade of locks you require, as well as the number of locks to be replaced.
Rekeying is a good option for commercial properties, office buildings, rental apartments, condominiums, and apartment complexes. A locksmith can replace the mechanical locking system instead of replacing the lock or hardware. This will prevent the old keys from unlocking the door. After that, the lock will be reset so it can work with a different key. Rekeying is the most cost-effective way to modify multiple locks.
The cost of rekeying depends on a number of factors, including the type of hardware chosen, the complexity of the lock mechanism, and the number of locks that need to be rekeyed.
Rekeying your doors is another option. This will allow you to create a master key. A master key system allows building managers and landlords to open multiple locks using one master key.
Do I Have to Hire a Locksmith?
Many people choose to replace their door locks themselves. However, this can be an expensive, difficult, and time-consuming process. Rekeying might be a better option. Rekeying, on the other hand, is when changes are made to a lock’s internal configuration in order for a new type of key to open it. This renders the old key obsolete.
Rekeying Kits are available at your local hardware shop. They come with instructions and are specific to the brand. When using a rekeying set, it’s essential to have the old key in order to remove the lock cylinder.
Additional Post-Purchase To-Dos
You may feel overwhelmed with the amount of work you have to do after you’ve closed on your home.
- Copy the closing papers, and keep them in a secure place.
- Transfer utilities,
- Change your address for credit cards and major accounts
- New driver’s license.
- Inform your auto insurance company, especially if you are moving to a new state.
- Confirm that the local office of property records has received your deed.
- Install shades or curtains before you move in as a measure of security.
- Consider the maintenance needs, such as changing the HVAC filters, painting the house, cleaning your gutters, or hiring an exterminator.
- Enjoy your new neighbors!
Lock Services for Newly Purchased Homes
Congratulations if you have closed or plan to close on your home. Closing is only the beginning. There’s still a lot to do after signing the papers and handing over the keys.
Keypad Locksmith will help you to lighten the load. Keypad Locksmith provides locksmith services for new homeowners in Maryland, including Rockville, Silver Spring Bethesda Lanham, and Bowie. Contact Keypad Locksmith at 240-205-9039 for more information about changing the locks in your home.
