Moving into a new home is exciting, but the keys you receive at settlement do not tell you how many copies may still exist. Previous owners, tenants, cleaners, tradespeople, neighbours or family members may have been given keys over the years. Even when everyone acts honestly, old copies can remain forgotten in drawers, toolboxes and key cabinets.
For that reason, it is sensible to review the locks soon after moving. In many cases, the existing locks can be rekeyed so the old keys stop working. Replacement is more appropriate when the hardware is worn, damaged, unsuitable or no longer provides the function you need.
Should you change the locks after buying a house?
You should at least have the external locks assessed after moving into a property. The aim is to restore key control, confirm that the doors and locks work properly, and identify any obvious security weaknesses.
Changing the locks does not always mean replacing every lock body. A locksmith may be able to rekey compatible cylinders, repair serviceable hardware, key suitable locks alike or recommend replacement only where it is genuinely needed.
Why the existing keys may not be fully accounted for
During the life of a property, keys may have been issued to:
- Previous owners or tenants
- Real estate agents and property managers
- Cleaners, gardeners and maintenance contractors
- Builders, painters and other tradespeople
- Friends, relatives and neighbours
- House sitters or pet carers
Receiving three or four keys at settlement does not prove that only three or four copies exist. Rekeying removes that uncertainty because the old keys no longer operate the locks.
Rekeying versus replacing after settlement
Rekeying changes the internal combination of a compatible lock so a new key operates it. The existing hardware remains on the door.
Replacement means fitting a new lock, cylinder, deadbolt, digital lock or other hardware.
Rekeying is often suitable where the locks are in good condition and provide the right function. Replacement is more likely where locks are worn, damaged, unreliable, incompatible or unsuitable for the door.
For a deeper comparison, read Should You Rekey or Replace Your Locks?.
Which doors should be checked?
Front and rear external doors
These are the obvious starting points. Check that each door closes cleanly, the latch engages without needing to be forced, the deadbolt or deadlatch operates smoothly and the frame is sound.
Garage access doors
A door from an attached garage into the house is an important security point. It may be less visible than the front door but still provides direct access to the home.
Side and laundry doors
Secondary external doors are sometimes fitted with older or lower-quality hardware. They should receive the same attention as the main entry.
Gates and sheds
External gates, sheds and storage areas may use separate keys. Decide whether they should remain separate, be keyed alike where compatible, or be upgraded.
Sliding doors and screen doors
These may use different lock types and should be checked for wear, alignment and reliable operation. The complete door and frame matter, not only the cylinder.
What should be inspected besides the key?
- Whether the door closes and latches without force
- Whether handles and furniture are loose
- Whether the frame or strike plate is damaged
- Whether the lock feels stiff, worn or unreliable
- Whether the key is bent, worn or difficult to insert
- Whether all external doors provide appropriate security
- Whether several compatible locks could use one key
A new key combination will not fix a warped door, loose hinge, damaged frame or failing lock body. Those issues should be addressed at the same time.
Can all the locks use one key?
Possibly. Compatible locks can sometimes be keyed alike so one key operates several doors. This can reduce the number of keys you carry and simplify everyday use.
Keyed alike is different from a master key system. In a normal home, keyed-alike locks may be enough. Larger properties, home offices or multi-user sites may benefit from a more structured master key system.
Should you consider restricted keys?
A standard key may be copied without the property owner knowing. A restricted key system adds an authorisation process for additional keys. This can be useful for larger homes, managed properties, home businesses or situations where key duplication needs tighter control.
Should you install a digital lock after moving?
A digital lock can be useful where keypad, fingerprint, card or app access suits the household. It may reduce reliance on physical keys and make it easier to change access for guests, cleaners or family members.
However, the door must be suitable for the selected lock. Backset, thickness, existing preparation, weather exposure, handing and mechanical condition all matter. See our digital and smart lock guidance before choosing by appearance alone.
What about rental properties?
Tenants should follow the property’s approval and tenancy processes before altering locks. Landlords and property managers should also consider legal and administrative requirements when changing access between tenancies. A locksmith can advise on the hardware, but tenancy obligations should be confirmed with the relevant authority or professional.
Common mistakes after moving house
- Assuming all old keys were returned
- Replacing good hardware without first considering rekeying
- Ignoring garage, side or laundry doors
- Choosing a digital lock before confirming door compatibility
- Focusing on the lock while ignoring a weak frame or poor alignment
- Keeping several incompatible key systems when they could be simplified
- Forcing stiff locks instead of having them inspected
A practical moving-house lock checklist
- List every external door, gate, garage and shed lock.
- Collect all keys provided at settlement.
- Identify which keys operate which openings.
- Check every door for smooth closing and latching.
- Note loose, damaged or unreliable hardware.
- Decide whether one key for several compatible locks would help.
- Consider whether any user needs separate or controlled access.
- Arrange rekeying, repair or replacement based on condition and risk.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to replace every lock after moving?
No. Serviceable locks may be rekeyed so old keys stop working. Replacement is more appropriate where hardware is worn, damaged or unsuitable.
How soon should I change the locks?
Ideally, review the locks as soon as practical after settlement or before moving valuable belongings into the property.
Can a locksmith rekey all the doors to one key?
Possibly, if the locks and cylinders are compatible. An inspection will confirm what can be keyed alike.
What if I have lost one of the settlement keys?
Consider rekeying the affected locks, particularly if the missing key could be linked to the address.
Should I change the garage remote as well?
Garage remotes and opener settings are separate from door locks. Review the garage system and follow the manufacturer’s process for removing old remotes or codes.
Can I keep the existing locks and just cut new keys?
Cutting new copies of the same key does not stop old keys from working. Rekeying changes the lock combination.
Need a new-home lock review?
Abetta Mobile Locksmith can inspect the external locks, explain what can be retained and recommend whether rekeying, repair or replacement is appropriate for your Sunshine Coast home.
View our residential locksmith services or request an estimate.