Previous owners, past tenants, agents, contractors, cleaners, a neighbor who fed the cat: any of them might still hold a key to the house you just moved into. None of them need bad intentions for that to matter. A key lost years ago still opens your door today.
What rekeying means
A pin-tumbler lock opens when a key lifts small pins to exactly the right heights. Rekeying swaps those pins for a new set matched to a new key. The body and handle stay put, so it's usually quicker and cheaper than replacing hardware.
Small job, big effect
Several doors can typically be done in one visit and set to a single key, so the ring of mismatched keys goes away. Ask for a quote based on the number of locks.
Renters: ask first
Check the lease and talk to your landlord. Many rekey between tenants as a matter of course. If yours doesn't, ask, or offer to arrange it with written permission and hand over a copy of the new key.
After renovations too
Builders and trades often hold keys for weeks. Rekey when they finish.
Rekey or replace?
Rekey when locks are in good condition. Replace when they're worn or damaged, or when you want an upgrade such as a Grade 1 deadbolt or a keypad lock. The deadbolt guide helps you choose, and the coupons page has a rekey offer.
