Your home’s locks are the first line of defense between your family and the outside world. They guard your valuables, your privacy, and your peace of mind. Yet most homeowners don’t think about replacing their locks until something goes wrong. The truth is, locks don’t last forever, and knowing when to replace them can save you from security risks, costly emergencies, and inconvenient lockouts.
So, how often should you call a residential locksmith and replace your home locks? Let’s discuss this in detail:
Why Lock Replacement Matters?
Replacing locks isn’t just a maintenance chore; it’s a security investment. While locks appear sturdy, internal components degrade with time. Springs weaken, cylinders wear down, and keys become loose in their slots. A worn-out lock takes longer to engage, jams more easily, and becomes vulnerable to forced entry.
Criminals often target homes with outdated locks simply because they’re easier to manipulate. A fresh lock upgrade strengthens your home’s resistance and gives you better control over who has access.
The General Rule: Replace Home Locks Every 5-7 Years
Most locksmiths agree that residential locks should be replaced every five to seven years, even if they appear functional. This timeframe accounts for natural wear, environmental exposure, and the limitations of older lock technology.
If you live in a humid climate, use your doors frequently, or have cheaper builder-grade locks, you may need replacements sooner. High-quality deadbolts from reputable brands can last longer, but they still need periodic updates to keep up with modern security standards.
Replace Locks Immediately After Moving Into a New Home
If you recently purchased or rented a home, replacing the locks should be at the top of your to-do list, before you even unpack.
You cannot be sure how many spare keys exist or who might still have access. Previous tenants, contractors, cleaners, babysitters, or neighbors helping with chores may have copies. Installing new locks ensures you are the only person with working keys, eliminating risks tied to old keyholders.
Change Locks When Your Keys Are Lost, Stolen, or Unreturned
Misplaced keys are not just an inconvenience; they’re a security vulnerability. Even if you think they’re simply lost, there’s no guarantee someone won’t use them.
Likewise, anytime a roommate moves out, a contractor fails to return a key, or an ex-partner used to have access, you should replace the locks.
Rekeying can sometimes solve the issue, but if you want full peace of mind or your lock is already aging, replacement is the smarter choice.
Also read: How Locksmiths Ensure the Safety of Your Property
Replace Locks After a Break-In or an Attempted Break-In
If your home was burglarized or someone tried to tamper with the lock, replacement is crucial. Even minor manipulation can damage internal parts and compromise the lock’s strength.
Criminals often return to homes they’ve successfully targeted once they assume the security measures haven’t changed.
Installing high-security deadbolts, reinforced strike plates, or smart locks immediately helps deter repeat attempts.
When Your Lock Starts Showing Signs of Wear and Tear
Locks give warning signs before they fail. If you notice any of the following, replacement is necessary:
- The key sticks or requires force to turn
- The door doesn’t latch properly unless slammed
- Cylinder spins loosely
- Rust, corrosion, or visible damage on the lock body
- Key works inconsistently
- You need to jiggle the key to get the lock to engage
These issues indicate internal deterioration. At this point, the lock is not performing at its intended strength, leaving your home more vulnerable.
Upgrade Your Locks When Technology Changes or Crime Trends Shift
Security technology evolves, and criminals adapt to outdated systems. If your locks were installed years ago, they may lack the features modern locks offer, such as lock rekeying, bump resistance, pick resistance, drill resistance, and reinforced hardware.
Upgrading becomes even more important if crime rates rise in your neighborhood. Newer locks offer higher-grade materials, anti-tamper features, and advanced designs that significantly improve protection.
Replace Locks During Major Life Changes
Life events can affect your home’s security. Consider replacing your locks if:
- You’ve recently gone through a divorce or separation
- You started renting out parts of your home
- You hired long-term help, such as caregivers or housekeepers
- You added new roommates or removed old ones
- A burglary occurred nearby
Installing new locks during these transitions ensures your access control stays updated and prevents unauthorized entry from people who may still hold old keys.
Consider Replacing Locks When Renovating Your Home
Home renovations aren’t just about improving aesthetics; they’re also an opportunity to upgrade infrastructure.
If you’re installing new doors, updating the exterior, or improving your home’s energy efficiency, replacing old locks makes sense. Modern locks complement updated doors, and smart locks can integrate with home automation systems for a cohesive upgrade.
Need Help With Lock Replacement?
Do you want to replace your locks? Multi Locksmith is just a call away. Our professional house locksmiths will replace your lock in no time. They have the best tools, knowledge, and expertise to efficiently rekey or replace any lock.
Call us today and talk to us.
