5 Reasons To Have Your Locks Re-keyed Immediately
The technique of changing a lock so that it can use different keys is referred to as a house re-key. It is considered different than just changing a lock because changing a lock means that the whole lock and its hardware is swapped. However, in re-keying, the only thing that is changed is the lock mechanism, and new keys are made. Usually, re-keying a lock is much more cost effective than replacing the whole lock. Moreover, if both the lock and hardware are still in a good state then there is no need whatsoever to replace them. The main reason why you should ever desire to re-key your house is to upgrade the security there.
Definitely, there is nothing as meaningful as taking care of your home and possessions from harm and trespassers. The traditional lock and key setup enable you to protect and maintain the safety of your family and assets. Regrettably, the keys used in this conventional setup can be obtained by unwanted intruders and it can be a hard task to identify the parties that uses them and the time that they are correctly used. Basically, keys are easily duplicated, and this creates a practically unnoticeable security threat. This is why re-keying all your locks is the most effective and beneficial way to protect your family and belongings.
Why is it Necessary to Re-key Your Locks?
Relocating to a New Residence
When moving to a new home, office or apartment, it is highly advisable to re-key the house mainly for security reasons. The previous occupants or the tenants may have made key duplicates which gives them easy access to your personal space. Furthermore, even if the prior residents of the house had returned the keys, it is still hardly possible to know for a fact if they gave a copy of the key. This exposes your family and assets to potential risks by intruders.
Misplaced/Lost Keys
In case you have ever lost or misplaced your keys, re-keying is recommended for you. It is particularly important if you have lost your bag or purse that had not only the keys but also your personal information such as your home address details. The security of your loved ones and your belongings could be at risk if the keys fall into the hands of a dubious character.
Past Relationships
This includes ex-spouses, fiancées’ and lovers. Another reason why you should have your keys re-keyed is a fall out between someone you were romantically involved with. It does not matter if your ex returned the key, they could have made duplicates. It is very common for revengeful ex’s to break into their spouses’ house. As soon as the breakup takes place, your first priority should be to re-key your locks. It is much cheaper to seek the services of a locksmith to re-key your locks than having to handle all the expenses that come with replacing all your stolen items by a spiteful ex. The charges for re-configuring a lock are pretty reasonable. At least you are guaranteed of protection because locksmith companies are insured and bonded.
Hateful and Bitter Employees
This applies to someone who has recently fired an employee that had access to the office keys. It is very necessary to have the office/building keys re-keyed. It is usual for a hostile employee to use the keys to break into the company and access confidential informational that could lead to big losses and damages, all simply out of revenge for being fired.
Personal Services (e.g. cleaning services)
It is common to forget to ask for your keys back from a home service company once you are done seeking their services. If you have ever used the services of a cleaning company, babysitter, etc. it is essential to have your house re-keyed. Even if it is a trustworthy company, you should not take any risk when it comes to your safety.
In case you do not feel comfortable with your buildings conventional lock system, you have only two options: Replace your locks or re-key them. Replacing the entire key system is only recommended when you feel that the current locks are not trustworthy and you need to upgrade to more secure and convenient locks.
On the other hand, if you happen to be satisfied with the lock system in your home but wish to take extra precautions, then you ought to reconsider re-keying the locks. Once the lock system has been re-keyed, the new key will be able to work on all lock and the old key will become void.
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This depends on few factors. First, and most important one is the type of locks that are to be rekeyed. Most standards locks used in houses may need a minimum key recharge, but there are exceptions to some types of locks. Some commercial buildings have exit devices, restricted keyways, high security locks and other devices for which you may have to pay more. In most cases, it’s just few dollars more per lock for these devices. It’s possible to rekey most of these locks and is the most economical way to restrict access to any location that may have keys in the wrong hand.