Rekey or Replace Your Locks? What to Do After Moving In

You just got the keys to a new home. It's exciting, but there's a question worth asking: who else has a key? Previous owners, their family, contractors, a dog walker, a neighbour who watered the plants. Changing who can open your doors is one of the first things security experts recommend after a move.

You have two options: rekey the existing locks or replace them. Here's how to choose.

What rekeying means

Inside most household locks is a set of small pins sized to match a specific key. Rekeying means a locksmith takes the lock cylinder apart and replaces those pins with a new set that matches a new key.

• The lock hardware stays on your door
• Old keys stop working
• You get new keys
• Several locks can be rekeyed to work with one key

What replacing means

Replacing means removing the lock hardware entirely and installing a new deadbolt, handle, or lockset.

• You can upgrade to stronger or better-looking hardware
• You can switch styles, such as a lever instead of a knob
• It's a good time to add a smart lock

When rekeying makes sense

• The locks are in good working condition
• You like the look of the hardware
• You want old keys to stop working quickly
• You'd like one key for the front door, back door, and garage entry door
• You're a landlord changing tenants

When replacing makes sense

• Locks are worn, sticky, loose, or damaged
• You want stronger security, such as a better-grade deadbolt
• The hardware doesn't match your style
• You want keyless entry or a smart lock
• A lock was damaged in a break-in attempt

Choosing stronger hardware

If you replace, look for:

• A proper deadbolt on every exterior door, with a full-length bolt throw
• Quality ratings. Locks carry an industry grade (ANSI/BHMA Grade 1, 2, or 3). Grade 1 is the toughest.
• Reinforced strike plates fastened with long screws into the door frame, not just the trim
• Matching key types so one key can work several doors

A lock is only as strong as the door and frame it's mounted in. Loose frames and short screws are common weak points.

Don't forget these doors

When rekeying or replacing, think about every way into the house:

• Front and back doors
• Side doors and the door between the garage and the house
• Patio doors (often a weak point; consider an auxiliary lock or bar)
• Sheds and detached garages
• Garage door opener remotes and keypad codes: reset or reprogram them after a move

Our home security checklist covers the rest.

For landlords

Rekeying between tenants is standard good practice. It's quicker and usually more economical than replacing hardware, and it ensures former tenants' keys no longer work. Pair it with cameras in common areas; see our guide to cameras for rental properties.

How we can help

Our locksmith service handles rekeying, lock changes, deadbolt installation, and hardware upgrades for homes, rentals, and businesses across Durham Region. We'll look at your doors and give you a straight recommendation rather than selling you hardware you don't need.

Frequently asked questions