Home security is a top priority for any homeowner, and ensuring your property is protected from potential threats often requires more than just basic measures like locking your doors.

Over time, technology advances, wear and tear set in, and the need for a more secure home arises.

That’s where professional locksmiths come in. Residential locksmith services go beyond unlocking doors—they offer comprehensive security solutions that can significantly enhance your home's safety.

So, when should you call a locksmith for home security upgrades? Here are several situations that may require their expertise.

1. After Moving into a New Home

One of the most critical times to upgrade your home security is immediately after moving into a new house.

Even if the previous owners or tenants handed over the keys, there’s no way of knowing how many copies exist or who might still have access.

Former occupants, cleaning services, maintenance workers, or real estate agents could potentially still possess copies of the keys.

A locksmith can rekey or replace all the locks in your home, giving you peace of mind that you are the only one with access.

In addition to rekeying, this is an excellent opportunity to upgrade to more advanced locking systems, such as smart locks, that offer higher levels of security and convenience.

2. When Your Locks Are Outdated or Damaged

Locks, like any mechanical device, experience wear and tear over time. Old or damaged locks can become easy targets for burglars.

If you notice that your locks are becoming rusty, difficult to turn, or loose, it’s time to consider a security upgrade.

Outdated locks may also be less resistant to modern burglary techniques, such as lock picking or bumping.

A residential locksmith can assess the condition of your locks and recommend replacements or repairs.

For increased security, you might consider upgrading to high-security deadbolts or electronic locks that are more resistant to tampering and forced entry.

3. If You’ve Experienced a Break-In or Attempted Burglary

If your home has been broken into, or there has been an attempted burglary, upgrading your security system should be your top priority.

Even if the burglars didn’t manage to get inside, a failed attempt indicates that your current security measures may not be sufficient.

A locksmith can inspect your locks, doors, and windows to identify any weak points and recommend more secure options.

For homes that have experienced break-ins, upgrading to a higher grade of locks, installing reinforced doors, and incorporating security systems like alarms or smart cameras can deter future attempts.

A locksmith can also provide advice on additional safety measures such as window locks, security bars, and surveillance systems.

4. When You Want to Switch to Smart Lock Systems

The evolution of smart home technology has transformed the way we think about home security.

Smart locks, which allow you to control your locks remotely via a smartphone or voice command, are increasingly popular for their convenience and enhanced security features.

They often include features like keyless entry, real-time monitoring, and integration with home automation systems.

If you’re considering upgrading to smart locks, calling a locksmith is essential.

A professional locksmith will ensure that the smart locks are installed correctly and are compatible with your existing security system.

They can also advise you on the best options, as there are many different types of smart locks available, ranging from biometric (fingerprint) locks to keypad entry systems.

5. When You Want to Improve Your Home’s Overall Security

Even if you haven’t experienced a break-in or don’t have damaged locks, you might want to upgrade your security simply to improve your home’s overall protection.

For example, if you live in a high-crime area or are going to be away from your home for an extended period, it’s a good idea to ensure that your home is as secure as possible.

A locksmith can conduct a thorough security assessment of your property, identifying potential vulnerabilities such as outdated locks, weak doors, or exposed windows.

They can then recommend and install more secure alternatives, including reinforced doors, deadbolt locks, window locks, and advanced alarm systems.

6. When You’ve Lost Your Keys or Changed Tenants

Losing your keys is more than just an inconvenience—it’s also a significant security risk. If your keys have fallen into the wrong hands, your home could be compromised.

In such cases, calling a locksmith to change the locks or rekey them is crucial to ensuring your home remains secure.

Rekeying is often a quicker and more affordable solution, as it involves changing the lock’s internal mechanism rather than replacing the entire lock.

Similarly, if you’re a landlord and you’ve recently had a tenant move out, it’s a good idea to rekey the locks before new tenants move in.

This not only ensures that previous tenants no longer have access to the property but also provides peace of mind to new occupants.

7. After Major Home Renovations or Adding New Entrances

If you’ve recently completed major home renovations, particularly if they involved adding new doors, windows, or entryways, it’s an ideal time to upgrade your security.

Any new entrances into your home create potential points of access for intruders, and they need to be secured properly.

A locksmith can install high-quality locks on all new doors and windows, ensuring that your home’s new layout doesn’t compromise security.

Additionally, renovations often lead to a period where various contractors, workers, and vendors have access to your property.

Once the work is complete, it’s wise to have a locksmith change the locks to eliminate any risk of unauthorized access.

8. If You Want to Secure Your Home After a Divorce or Separation

In cases of divorce or separation, one party may no longer wish for the other to have access to the home.

A locksmith can rekey or replace the locks to prevent any unwanted entry.

This is an important security step that can also help individuals regain a sense of control and privacy during an emotionally challenging time.

Conclusion

Upgrading your home security is a proactive measure that ensures the safety and well-being of your household.

Whether you’re moving into a new home, dealing with old or damaged locks, or simply want to stay ahead of potential threats, a professional residential locksmith can offer valuable expertise.

By identifying vulnerabilities and recommending appropriate solutions, locksmiths play a crucial role in keeping your home secure.

Don’t wait for a security breach to occur—consider calling a locksmith for a security upgrade today.