Moving into a new home is exciting, but it comes with a security question that many new homeowners overlook: who else has a key to your front door? Previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, neighbors, and even short-term guests may still have copies of the original keys. Knowing when to rekey after moving is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your household. This guide explains what rekeying is, when it makes sense, and how to get it done through a verified local locksmith.

What Does Rekeying a Lock Actually Mean?

Rekeying is a process where a locksmith changes the internal pins inside your existing lock cylinder so that the old keys no longer work. The lock hardware stays in place, but a new key is cut to operate it. This is different from changing your locks entirely, which involves removing and replacing the full hardware.

For most new homeowners, rekeying is the faster and more affordable option. It gives you complete control over who holds a working key without the expense of brand-new hardware. You can learn more about the difference between these two approaches on the rekey vs. replace blog post on 1-800-Unlocks.

Should You Always Rekey When You Move In?

The short answer is yes, and you should do it as soon as possible. Even if the previous owners hand you every key they have, there is no way to verify that copies were never made. Keys are easy to duplicate at hardware stores, and a single unauthorized copy can put your home at risk long after move-in day.

Rekeying is especially important in these situations:

• You bought a previously occupied home or condo
• You moved into a rental property and the landlord has not confirmed rekeying between tenants
• The home was listed with a lockbox during the selling process
• The property sat vacant for an extended period before your purchase
• You are not sure how many people had access during renovations or staging

Our move-in day security checklist covers rekeying as part of a broader set of steps to secure your new home from day one.

Which Doors and Locks Should You Rekey?

You want to rekey every exterior entry point that uses a key. That includes the front door, back door, side door, and any door connecting your garage to the interior of your home. Do not overlook doors that are rarely used, like a basement entry or a door that leads to a utility space.

If your home has deadbolts and knob locks on the same door, a locksmith can often rekey both to work with the same key. This is called keying alike, and it simplifies your keychain without reducing your security. A residential locksmith can assess each entry point and recommend the right approach based on your lock hardware and security goals.

How Much Does Rekeying Cost After a Move?

The cost to rekey locks after moving depends on the number of locks, the type of hardware you have, and your location. Most homeowners pay somewhere between $80 and $200 for a full rekeying service that covers all exterior doors. High-security locks or specialty hardware may cost more.

A locksmith typically charges a service call fee plus a per-lock rate. You can review general pricing ranges on the locksmith prices page at 1-800-Unlocks to set your expectations before you call. Rekeying is almost always less expensive than replacing your locks, and it delivers the same core benefit: the old keys stop working the moment the job is done.

Watch Out for Scam Locksmiths When You Search Online

Searching for a locksmith online after a move can lead you to fake listings that advertise low prices and then charge far more once the work is done. New homeowners are frequent targets because they are unfamiliar with local service providers.

Here is what to watch for before you hire anyone:

• Unmarked vehicles with no company identification
• Refusal to provide a quote before starting work
• Pressure to replace locks rather than rekey them
• No physical address or verifiable business information

A legitimate locksmith will give you a clear quote before starting, arrive in a marked truck, and explain your options without pushing unnecessary upgrades. The locksmith fraud page on 1-800-Unlocks explains how these scams work in detail.

When Rekeying Is Not Enough

There are situations where rekeying alone may not be the right solution. If your current locks are older, worn, or low-grade hardware, a locksmith may recommend upgrading to a higher-security lock at the same time. Locks that show signs of damage, tampering, or excessive wear should be replaced rather than rekeyed.

If your new home has a master key system from a previous commercial use or a homeowners association, you may need to consult with a locksmith about how to handle that setup properly. Rekeying within a master key system is more complex and requires a locksmith with the right tools and experience.

How to Find a Verified Locksmith for Move-In Rekeying

Through 1-800-Unlocks, you can search by ZIP code or call 1-800-UNLOCKS to be connected with a verified local locksmith in your area. The locksmiths in our network are screened and listed because of their reputation for honest, professional service.

Do not wait until you have settled in to take care of this. Rekeying is one of the fastest and most affordable security upgrades you can make, and it gives you immediate peace of mind from the moment you move in.

Ready to secure your new home? Find a verified residential locksmith near you through 1-800-Unlocks, or call 1-800-UNLOCKS and enter your ZIP code to be connected right away. Get a fast quote and start your new chapter with confidence.