How Often Should You Change Your Locks in Fort Lee NJ?

We tend to take our locks for granted. They're part of our routine and we use them every day without giving much thought to their quality or age. But the reality is that our locks wont last forever and there will come a point when we need to change them to ensure maximum security.

After Moving Into a New Home

Moving into a new house in Fort Lee is the time to consider changing the locks. When purchasing or renting a new residence you have no idea how many key copies exist and how many people had access to them. Previous homeowners tenants construction workers real estate agents and neighbors might have copies of the keys. Have your locks changed or rekeyed before you spend the first night in your new house.

After a Break In or Attempted Break In

If your home or business in Fort Lee was burglarized replace the locks immediately after calling the police. Even if they still work properly the internal components may suffer from damage making them vulnerable to another break in attempt. A professional locksmith will install new locks in no time restoring security.

After Losing Your Keys

If you lose your keys and someone could trace them back to your property its better to have your locks rekeyed. It takes less time and money than replacing them and the process is done on site by your locksmith. You can continue using your existing lock and only change the pins to ensure that the lost keys wont open the door.

After a Relationship Ends or a Roommate Leaves

If a former roommate or partner moves out or if you've parted ways with a family member who had a key you should update your locks immediately. It's better to be safe than sorry because you cant be sure if all copies have been returned.

When Locks Show Signs of Wear

Like other devices locks deteriorate with time but it doesnt mean they stop working properly. However it does make them more susceptible to attacks. Sticking keys locks that don't turn easily deadbolts that aren't retracting entirely or locks that seem loose should alert you to consider updating your lockset. If your Fort Lee home uses original locks installed decades ago it's time to upgrade them.

Every Few Years for Preventive Maintenance

It's not mandatory to replace your locks whenever a problem arises. In general you can safely use your locks for up to five or seven years without issues. Over time advances in locking technologies increase their security and some locks that worked well ten years ago become vulnerable to modern tools. If you want to increase security opt for high grade locks or electronic access systems.

For Businesses and Commercial Properties

Commercial establishments require more frequent lock maintenance. Companies often employ dozens of people which means they need to change locks whenever an employee leaves the company. A commercial locksmith can implement a master key system that allows revoking access for specific employees while leaving other employees keys functional. You should regularly perform lock audits to keep all entry points safe.

Rekey or Replace

In most cases you'll have to choose between changing the entire lock or rekeying it. The latter involves changing the internal pins of the lock so that old keys wont open the door whereas you keep the lock mechanism intact. It costs less than replacing a lock but you should opt for the latter if the lock is damaged obsolete or you want more security.

If you have doubts about your lock quality or age give EZ Locksmith a call at (973) 952-6469. We'll provide you with quick lock replacement and rekeying services at affordable rates and our 24 7 availability will ensure that were always ready to assist you.