Like most other parts, pieces and components making up your home, locks occasionally need to be replaced for one reason or another. Fortunately, the process of replacing locks is fairly simple and inexpensive. Some of the reasons why locks may need to be changed include:
Lost Keys
If for no other reason than some much-appreciated peace of mind, it’s best to change locks when keys are lost. Even if lost keys turn up later, there’s no way to be completely sure that it wasn’t copied by someone without your knowledge.
Moving into a New Home
While a real estate agent or the previous owner is likely to give you keys to a newly purchased home, there’s no way of knowing how many copies exist or who may still have a set of keys.
Worn or Damaged Locks
Locks can wear out over time, especially older locks that have been slowly rusting or deteriorating internally. Perform periodic inspections to look for signs of worn or damaged locks that need to be changed such as difficulty inserting keys or rusted metal. In addition to posing a safety hazard, worn or damaged lock can also fail when you’re trying to get into your home.
Not Getting Spare Keys Back
Keep track of who you gave keys to and whether or not you got the key back. If you’ve lost track of keys you’ve given to neighbors or friends while on vacation or keys you’ve given to repair people when you couldn’t be home for the appointment, opt for a lock change to be on the safe side. The same is true should you notice that you’re not getting spare keys back.
Separation/Divorce
The process of going through a separation or divorce sometimes involves issues over possessions. While you may be hesitant to resort to changing the locks, it’s a move that can provide some peace of mind as you go through the separation or divorce process.
Getting New Roommates
Even if you trust roommate(s), it’s best to have your locks changed if they move out since you have no way of knowing who they may have given keys to or if any copies were made without your knowledge. The last thing you want is to find out that your former roommate is still using your home or apartment whenever you’re away without your consent.
Following a Break-in or Attempted Break-in
It’s better to be safe than sorry, so it’s best to have your locks changed after you’ve experienced a break-in at your home. The same applies with attempted break-ins since you can’t be sure that your locks weren’t damaged during the attempt to enter your home.
When Giving Children Keys
It’s understandable to trust children with house keys. However, kids tend to lose things now or then, so it’s best to have your locks changed on a regular basis just to be on the safe side.
If you can’t remember the last time you had your locks changed, it’s a good idea to go ahead an opt for an update even if you’ve never had any issues. Technology changes over tine and newer locks are better designed for today’s needs. Additionally, some homeowner’s insurance policies include discounts for making improvements like updating locks since it makes your home more secure.
