Congratulations on the new place. Before you get too comfortable, spend an afternoon on security — you don't know who still has a key to your home. Here's a simple checklist new homeowners and renters can work through.
Your move-in security checklist
- Rekey or replace every exterior lock. Previous owners, agents, contractors, cleaners, and neighbors may all have keys. Rekeying is the fast, affordable way to make every old key useless.
- Don't forget the "other" locks. Side gates, the garage entry door, sheds, and the mailbox all need attention too.
- Test every deadbolt. It should extend fully and smoothly into the frame. A bolt that doesn't fully throw isn't protecting you.
- Check the strike plates. Long 3-inch screws into the door frame dramatically improve kick-in resistance — a cheap, high-impact upgrade.
- Change all the codes. Garage door openers, keypad locks, and any smart-home or alarm codes left by the previous owner.
- Consider a keypad or smart lock on the main entry so you never hide a key outside again.
- Look at windows and sliding doors. Add locks or security pins where they're missing — these are common entry points.
- Walk the exterior at night. Add lighting at doors and trim shrubs that give a burglar cover.
Renting? Ask your landlord in writing to rekey before you move in — many will, and California law often supports a tenant's request to change locks. We're happy to coordinate.
What to prioritize if you're short on time
If you can only do one thing this week, rekey the exterior doors. It closes the single biggest risk — unknown keys in unknown hands — for a small cost. Everything else on the list can follow over the next month.
Want it done in one visit?
We can rekey all your exterior locks to a single new key, reinforce strike plates, and install a smart lock in one appointment. Get in touch and we'll put together a quick plan for your new home.