Should You Change Locks On New House After Moving? – Experts Tips For All Homeowners

Have you recently moved into a new home, be that a new build or an older property, & want to know if you should change the locks?  Find out everything you need to know on the subject of changing locks when moving home.

As the UK’s largest locksmith association, our expert advice will help you decide whether changing locks in a new or old home is the right option for you, along with the reasons why.

1. Should you change locks when you buy a new house?
2. Do you need to change locks on a new build?
3. When should I change locks after moving house?
4. Will not changing my locks invalidate my home insurance?
5. Do I need to install a certain type of lock when changing locks in a new home?
6. Different types of locks to consider If changing locks when moving house
7. Should I hire a locksmith or change locks myself?

1. Should You Change The Locks When You Buy a House?

Quite simply, yes changing the lock when you buy a new house or move house is the only way to be completely in control of who has keys to your property.

And it’s not just previous occupants to consider. Cleaners, babysitters and estate agents could all have a spare key to your new home.

Locks in an Older Property Could be Outdated

If you move into an older property, the locks may be outdated and not offer the level of security a newer lock would. It’s always a good idea to have your locks regularly checked and upgraded if necessary.

Despite this, Yale found that 65% of people haven’t upgraded their home security in the last two years [1].

2. Do you need to change locks on a new build?

Even if you’re moving into a new build home then tradesmen, site staff and estate agents have all had access to your house keys so it’s worthwhile changing the locks.

You could use the opportunity to have your entire property keyed alike which means one key will open all your doors.

3. When should I change locks after moving house?

If you are buying a new build home or moving into an older home there are a number of reasons why changing the locks is worth doing, below is why:

Reasons you should change locks after moving house

✔ The previous homeowners or tenants could have keys to home
✔ Current locks could not meet insurance policy requirements
✔ There could some incorrectly fitted or damaged locks
✔ Have the window locks ever been changed in the past?
✔ If moving into a new build home do the builders have the keys?

4. Will not changing my locks invalidate my home insurance?

When looking to change your locks in a new home, always check your home insurance policy first, as insurance companies may require a minimum standard of lock, so fitting the incorrect lock could invalidate your home insurance.

Why not changing your locks could invalidate a claim

Insurance companies typically require proof of forced entry before they will approve a claim.

This means if you have not changed your locks an individual with an old key could potentially enter without any signs of forced entry, which may result in your claim being denied.

5. Do I need to install a certain type of lock when changing locks in a new home?

Insurance companies often require front and back door locks to be British Standard or have met the Sold Secure SS312 Standard to comply with their policies.

We highly recommend upgrading your locks to meet the British Standard or SS312 to ensure that your property is properly secured, protected and insured.

Locks on New build Homes

New builds should have British Standard or Sold Secure approved locks in order to meet building regs and should therefore be replaced with similarly approved locks.

There are some insurance providers who insist fitting a certain type of lock and could even offer a discount if you have high security locks in your home.

Changing Locks in an Older Property When Moving

Fitting new locks to a certain standard is usually required when moving into an older property, as the current locks may not be up to the necessary standard.

6. Different Types of Locks to Consider If Changing Locks When Moving House

When it comes to installing locks, there are different types of lock available in the market, each with its own unique features and benefits.

The type of lock you need to install depends on several factors such as the level of security you require, the location of the lock, and the type of door or window you want to secure.

Wooden Door – Changing Locks in New Home

For instance, if you want to secure your wooden front door in your new home, you may consider installing a deadbolt lock which provides an additional layer of security compared to a standard lock.

uPVC or Composite Door – Changing Locks in New Home

If you have a UPVC or composite door then you may want to change the lock cylinder to provide additional security and combat things like lock snapping.

best lock cylinder for upvc door
uPVC door security guide

When changing locks on a new home each lock has specific requirements

If you want to secure your sliding glass door, you may opt for a keyed patio door lock or a sliding door lock. It is important to choose a lock that suits your specific needs and offers the level of security you require.

7. Should I hire a locksmith or change locks myself?

If you are considering changing the locks on your new home or business, you may be wondering if it is something you can do yourself.

The answer is that it depends on your level of experience and knowledge with locks and doors.

If you have experience with DIY projects and are comfortable with basic tools, you may be able to change your locks on your own however the difficulty is in choosing the correct specification and size of lock.

We would always recommend it as being best to hire a professional locksmith to ensure that the job is done correctly.

References

[1] Nearly half of Brits don’t lock their doors and windows when they’re home, a new study from Yale shows, putting UK homes at risk (2022, April 22nd)
https://pressreleases.responsesource.com/news/102668/nearly-half-of-brits-don-t-lock-their-doors-and/