The Ultimate Guide to Changing Locks

Are you moving house? See what Shain’s Local Locksmith in Brisbane, Ipswich and on the Gold Coast has to say about securing your new home.

When it comes to moving house, regardless of whether you’ve bought or you are renting, there could be a chance that a house key has gone astray. Do you know how many keys exist that can unlock your doors? Previous real estate agents, tenants, families of tenants, tradesmen and owners may have access to your home. Rogue house keys in the wrong hands could be risking the safety of your family and the security of your contents.

Shain’s Local Locksmith discuss the legal obligations for renting tenants when considering changing the locks or rekeying, the recommendations for home-owners and also some alternative means of securing your home.

Renters

If you are concerned that someone may have access to your home, it is important that you consider the legalities of changing the locks as a renter. After all, you don’t want to change all the locks and then find that you have crossed some legal boundary.

According to the Residential Tenancy Authority Queensland (RTA), ‘locks can be changed if both parties agree, in an emergency or by order of the tribunal.’ Before calling Shain, take time to contact your landlord or agent and make sure that they are on board with the change. You will most likely need to supply them with a copy of the new key as well for emergency purposes.

Home owners

As a home owner, updating your locks and keys should be seen as a necessity. Changing the locks to your house is almost a rite of passage; think of it as the final hand-over to symbolise the independent ownership of your home.

If you plan to live in your home, the added security of new locking systems will ensure that your family and contents remain safe; not only from people who have old keys, but from strangers who may attempt to get in through dodgy old locks.

If you plan to rent your house out, updating the locks could save you on damage to the property later on. New keys and locks haven’t been worn down by years of use which is why changing the locks or rekeying will help to keep burglars out for future residents, as well as yourself.

Changing locks and rekeying – what’s the difference?

A common misconception for our clients is that locks need to be completely replaced in order to have a set of keys all to yourself. This isn’t the case. Rather than replacing the entire lock, you can replace the lock barrel and key. This process, known as rekeying, is a lot cheaper than replacing an entire lock.

For some locks (such as antiques) rekeying may not be the best course of action. When you meet with Shain or a member of the team, we will assess your locks and advise you on the most appropriate solution.

I can’t change my locks, what are my options?

Shain’s Local Locksmith also provides other means of securing your home and contents:

  • Alarm systems and installation
  • Safe sales and installations 
  • Security screens

Changing locks on your new home? Call Shain’s Local Locksmith in Brisbane, Ipswich and on the Gold Coast

For more information, or for free advice from Shain and his team of qualified locksmiths here in Brisbane, contact Shain’s Local Locksmith today.