When to Change Your Locks
News flash: Breaking into a home is easy for someone with a key. There’s no broken glass, no door damage, and it can look to neighbors as if the burglar belongs there. Protect yourself and your loved ones by knowing when and how to change the locks on your house or apartment. The key, so to speak, is to act smartly and quickly.
When to Change Your Locks
- When you move into a new place. Even if it’s brand new; contractors and make-ready cleaners often have keys so they can work inside homes under construction. If your home was previously lived in, those people may still have keys.
- When you want to deny someone with a key access to your home. This may be a former spouse, roommate, house cleaner, or pet sitter. Changing the locks can safeguard your home and protect that person from suspicion if there’s a break-in later.
- When a key to your house is lost. You never know who may have it in that case.
- When there’s been a break-in at your home. Regardless of how the burglars got inside, it’s better to be safe.
- When your locks are damaged or don’t work properly. This one’s a no-brainer!
How to Change Your Locks
Your locksmith may recommend re-keying your existing locks instead of replacing them. It’s usually faster and less expensive than installing new locks, especially if your house has several entry doors. If your locks are damaged or not super strong, your locksmith can tell you what replacements are best. Live in a rental? You may need to request a lock change or re-keying from the property manager.
Talk to your Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent about property insurance that can offer further protection for your family and your property, and get your home equipped with the right alarms.
Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation. © 2016 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
