Moving into a new home in London is exciting, but there’s one security step many people overlook: changing the locks. You simply don’t know how many copies of the existing keys are out there — previous owners, tenants, cleaners, tradespeople, or estate agents may still hold one.
Why New Locks Matter on Moving Day
Even if the previous occupants seem trustworthy, you have no way of verifying who else has access. Many people treat this as a genuine priority call to a london emergency locksmith, arranging a lock change on the very day they collect their keys.
What to Change (Not Just the Front Door)
- Front and back door locks
- Side gate or garden access locks
- Garage door locks
- Any window locks with removable keys
- Shed or outbuilding padlocks if valuables are stored there
Rekey or Replace?
- Rekeying — The existing lock is adjusted internally so old keys no longer work. This is often cheaper and faster.
- Replacing — The entire lock and cylinder is swapped for a new unit, ideal if you also want a security upgrade, such as an anti-snap or British Standard lock.
An experienced emergency london locksmith can advise which option suits your budget and the age/type of your existing locks.
How Soon Should This Happen?
Ideally, locks should be changed on moving day or within 24 hours. Many locksmiths offer a same-day locksmith london emergency service specifically for new homeowners and tenants who want peace of mind from day one.
Costs for Moving-Day Lock Changes
- Euro cylinder rekey/replacement: £50–£90 per door
- Mortice lock replacement: £70–£120
- Full property lock change (average 3-bed home): £250–£450
A Good Opportunity to Upgrade Security
Moving day is often the ideal time to invest in higher-security locks, since you’re already budgeting for the change. Popular upgrades include anti-snap cylinders, British Standard-rated locks, and smart locks with keyless entry — particularly useful if you’ll be issuing keys to family members, cleaners, or tenants.
Conclusion
New keys mean new peace of mind. Whether you’ve just bought your first flat or moved into a rental, calling a trusted london emergency locksmith to change the locks is one of the simplest, most effective security steps you can take on moving day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it really necessary to change locks when moving into a new home? Yes — you can never be certain how many people hold a copy of the existing keys, making it a sensible, low-cost security precaution.
2. Should I rekey or fully replace the locks? Rekeying is cheaper and faster if the existing locks are in good condition; full replacement is better if you also want a security upgrade.
3. Can this be done on the same day I get the keys? Yes, many emergency london locksmith services offer same-day appointments specifically for new homeowners and tenants.
4. Does this apply to rented properties too? It’s worth discussing with your landlord, as tenancy agreements vary on whether tenants can request lock changes.
5. How much does changing locks for a whole property cost? For an average 3-bed home, expect to pay roughly £250–£450 depending on lock type and quantity.