Locks and keys protect homes from potential intruders, and are essential for home security. Even if you have sensors, cameras and alarm systems are incredibly sophisticated, they won't be able to protect your family if the locks are compromised.

Many homeowners consider the front door lock to be one of the most essential components of any security system because it prevents unauthorised entry into their property. 

However, simply having locks at all entry points is insufficient because they may become worn out over time or may be faulty due to poor quality control.

How to identify locks that need either replacement, rekeying, or both. 

If your locks are damaged, either faulty or worn out, two options are rekey or change. Replacing your locks will be more expensive and take longer than rekeying, and rekeying is cheaper and only takes minutes to complete.

If you're replacing your locks, the locksmith replaces the entire lock. If you're rekeying, they take your old lock apart and replace the mechanism inside to match the new key.

When Should You Re-Key?

Rekeying is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to changing locks. This process involves replacing the original pins so that the original keys no longer works. Rekeying is cheaper and easier than replacing locks.

Re-keying may not always be an option if the door has been locked by someone else. The lock must be functional for it to be re-keyed. If your locks are broken or worn out, replacing them is the best course of action.

If you want to know whether it's time to replace your locks, take a look around your house and see if it needs replacing.

Signs It's Time To Upgrade Your Locks

If you see any of these signs, then you should call a residential locksmith to help upgrade your home lock system.

Your locks or keys are damaged

Like any other mechanical systems, keys and locks get so much wear and tear daily; heavy use can lead them to break down eventually. Locks can be difficult to open and close when they're damaged. If they are completely destroyed, they could make your house vulnerable.

Different types of locks are available on the market, which means you need to be careful when buying them. If the damage is minor, a locksmith can repair it by rekeying. But if the damage is extensive, then a lock-and-key replacement is best.

Locks that are low quality will be easy to pick and open with simple lock picking tools like bump keys. If you're looking for an upgrade from your traditional locks to a modern one, you might ask your locksmith about installing motion sensors, restricted key systems, master key systems, CCTV cameras or Alarms.

Faulty, ageing, or worn-out locks

It is easy to choose a rusty old lock that has been worn out by use. If your locks show signs of ageing or are faulty, they need to be replaced.

Moving house

Regardless of whether you're moving into a new home or one you've been living in for some time, you should always change your locks. Even if you're the first owner of a house, someone could have made an extra key while your house was being built.

Your Home Was Broken Into

If someone broke into your house through the front door, call a locksmith right away and have them change your locks. Even if they came into the house through a lockless door, they could have copied a spare key that you had left at home.

Your spare keys have been lost

If you cannot find the spare keys, you may want to consider changing your lock. Anyone could find them and gain entry into your house. It's especially bad if there is any information associated with the key that identifies you personally or the address of your home.

If you notice that your house, car or garage key has disappeared, you can assume that someone has broken into your property. This will require extra security.

A change in living situation

When children grow up, they may want to live on their own, so it can be more practical to convert your family home into a temporary residence. Before renting out your property, make sure to change the locks, and have them rekey every 10 years or so, just to be safe. If family breakups such as divorce, separation and domestic violence occur, you may need to change the locks or rekey your doors.

New tenants

If you own an apartment building, it is your responsibility as the owner to provide a safe environment. When new tenants move into an apartment building, the building owner or manager must change the locks and give them a new set of keys.

Keep an eye on who goes into and out of your house. You might be able let people in if they're trustworthy, but don't let anyone else inside without checking first. If you're renting your property for a short term, you could change the locks periodically as part of regular maintenance, or at least every five years.

Do you need to Upgrade Your Locks?

If you're moving into a new house, if you've had a break-in or lost a key, it's time to upgrade your home safety. If your locks are still in good working order, you may choose to have them rekeyed. If the locks are already worn or damaged, then you need to invest in a new set.

Home security is paramount. 

If your lock has been compromised, contact Shellharbour Locksmiths by via our contact form or calling us on 0403 388 757 at any time of any day! We can help you choose and implement the best security solutions for your home or business.