Closing on a new home may be one of life’s most thrilling events! After weeks, or maybe even months, of house hunting, researching neighborhoods, putting in offers, and waiting for approvals – the search is finally over. There’s just one more major task to complete before you can start unpacking those boxes and fully settle in: getting your door locks changed. You might be surprised to find out that most homeowners don’t think twice about this essential safety measure. One of the first things you should do after buying a new house is get your locks changed. You never know who might have a copy of the same key to your new house or who might have had access to the lock system at some point. Even if you trust the previous owner, there’s no reason to take any chances. A professional locksmith can complete the task securely and swiftly, allowing you to continue your to-do list while they work.
Perhaps you’re wondering why this is one of the most crucial tasks you should complete following the closing of your new house. This article will explain a few key reasons why changing your locks should be at the top of your priorities.
Here are some top reasons to change the locks on a new home;
The Previous Owners Did Not Hand Over All the Keys
You may want to trust the previous owners at their word if they seem honest and straightforward. The upstanding character of the last owners, however, is not sufficient to guarantee whether or not you have all copies of your new home’s keys. Consider, for example, that they have resided in the home for years and have lost track of how many real estate agents, nannies, housekeepers, neighbors, relatives, dog sitters, friends, caretakers, repair technicians, security firms, and so on that have copies of the old keys. There is no telling how many keys to your new home are floating around out there. The best way to protect your house, family, and belongings is by changing the locks as soon as possible after you take possession.
There Could Be a Master Key Out There
Even if your home is brand new and you are the first people to live in it, there isn’t any assurance that the locks are safe from a third party. If you’ve recently purchased a brand-new house, there’s a good probability that the locks are master keyed, which is a typical practice for many property developers.
All of the houses in one block, for example, may be accessed with a single key that fits each lock mechanism, as it is easier for home builders working on multiple homes at the same time in the same division. Subcontractors are frequently given access to a master key system, which means they can enter any of the homes as well.
To Keep the Insurance in Force
If you are robbed because you were using outdated locks and someone had the keys, your homeowner’s insurance claim may be void. Before they pay the claim amount, most insurance companies will want to see evidence of forced entry.
It won’t be labeled as a forced entry if someone uses an old key to open your front door and enter the premises. Instead, it will be deemed a case of owner negligence. Make sure you change your new home’s locks if you want your insurance to remain valid in case of a burglary!
For Peace of Mind
The most important reason to always change the locks after moving into a new home is for your own peace of mind. Even if you trust the previous homeowners and they have no history of crime, it’s still wise to take this safety precaution. It only takes a few minutes for the professional installation of new locks, and it’s a small price to pay for the comfort that comes with knowing that your home is secure.
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