Is Your Lock Security Compromised?
Many homeowners and business owners don’t realize when their lock security has been compromised. Waiting until after a break-in is too late. Here are the 10 warning signs that indicate immediate rekeying is needed.
The 10 Critical Signs
1. You Just Moved Into a New Home
Why It Matters:
- Previous owners may still have keys
- Keys given to contractors, cleaners, neighbors
- Real estate agents may have copies
- You have no idea how many keys exist
Our Recommendation: Rekey within the first week of moving in. It’s a small investment for significant peace of mind.
2. You Lost Your Keys (Or They Were Stolen)
Why It Matters:
- Lost keys can end up in anyone’s hands
- Stolen keys mean someone specifically has access
- Your address may be identifiable (if attached to wallet, etc.)
- Insurance may not cover break-ins if keys were lost
Our Recommendation: Rekey immediately, especially if ID or mail with your address was also lost.
3. An Employee or Roommate Left on Bad Terms
Why It Matters:
- Disgruntled individuals pose security risks
- They may have made copies
- Keys may be shared with others you don’t know
- Peace of mind for remaining occupants
Our Recommendation: Rekey within professionally of departure.
4. Your Contractor or Service Provider Had a Key
Why It Matters:
- Keys may have been copied for convenience
- Multiple workers may have had access
- Companies have employee turnover
- Professional standards vary widely
Our Recommendation: Rekey after major renovation or property management changes.
5. A Break-In Occurred (Even Unsuccessful)
Why It Matters:
- May indicate someone is targeting your property
- Lock damage may not be visible
- Psychology: criminals often return
- Police generally recommend rekeying
Our Recommendation: Rekey all entry points, consider upgrading to high-security locks.
6. Your Locks Are Showing Age
Signs of Lock Wear:
- Difficulty turning key
- Key sticking or catching
- Visible rust or corrosion
- Loose or wobbly hardware
- Deadbolt not extending fully
Our Recommendation: Rekey or replace depending on hardware condition.
7. You Don’t Know Who Has Keys
Common Scenarios:
- Inherited property
- Long-term rental ownership
- Keys given out over many years
- Previous security breaches
Our Recommendation: Complete rekey to reset key control entirely.
8. Going Through a Divorce or Separation
Why It Matters:
- Legal protection during disputes
- Emotional situations can escalate
- Protection of personal property
- Peace of mind for all parties
Our Recommendation: Rekey as soon as practical, inform your attorney.
9. You Want All Locks on One Key
Benefits of Single Key:
- Convenience - one key for everything
- Easier to manage spare keys
- Less bulk on keychain
- Cleaner key control
Our Recommendation: Rekey all locks to a single key configuration.
10. It’s Been More Than 5-7 Years
Why Time Matters:
- Keys accumulate over time
- Wear affects lock security
- Technology and standards evolve
- Regular maintenance is prudent
Our Recommendation: Consider periodic rekeying as part of home maintenance.
Rekeying vs. Replacing: Which Is Right for You?
Choose Rekeying When:
- Hardware is in good condition
- You want a faster, more efficient solution
- Quick turnaround is needed
- Current locks meet your security needs
Choose Replacement When:
- Locks are damaged or worn
- You want to upgrade security grade
- Aesthetic update is desired
- Smart lock conversion planned
Why Choose Kwikey for Rekeying?
- Professional service throughout Delaware and PA suburbs
- Transparent diagnostic approach - know what to expect before we start
- Mobile service - we come to you
- All locks rekeyed to one key - convenience reliably provided
- High-security options - if upgrade is needed
- Background-verified and insured - professional work reliably delivered
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your home or business with professional rekeying from Kwikey Locksmith.