If you want to protect your family and belongings from day one, you should rekey after moving into a new home â it's one of the smartest and most affordable security steps any new homeowner can take. You have no idea how many copies of your keys are floating around out there, and rekeying eliminates that uncertainty immediately.
- Rekeying changes the internal pins of your lock so old keys no longer work â without replacing the entire hardware.
- Previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, and neighbors may all have copies of your new home's keys.
- Rekeying is significantly cheaper than full lock replacement and takes less than an hour per door.
- Salt Lake City homeowners should rekey all entry points, including garage access doors and basement entries.
- Eagle Locksmith UT offers fast, affordable rekeying services throughout the Salt Lake Valley.
What Does It Mean to Rekey a Lock?
Rekeying a lock means a licensed locksmith adjusts the internal pin tumblers inside the lock cylinder so that the old key no longer operates it. A brand-new key is cut to match the new pin configuration. The lock hardware itself stays in place â only the internal mechanics change. This process is faster and more affordable than a full lock replacement, making it the go-to choice for most new homeowners on a budget.
Rekeying is also a great option when you want all locks in your home keyed to a single master key, reducing the number of keys on your keyring and simplifying everyday access.
Why You Should Rekey After Moving Into a New Home: The Security Risks
When you receive keys at closing, those aren't necessarily the only copies in existence. Think about everyone who may have had access to your home before you moved in:
- Previous owners and their family members
- Real estate agents from both sides of the transaction
- Contractors, cleaners, and inspectors who worked on the property
- Neighbors who were given spare keys for emergencies
- Airbnb or rental guests if the home was previously rented
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reports, burglary remains a significant property crime across the United States, and many break-ins occur through unlocked or easily accessed doors â not forced entry. Rekeying ensures unauthorized key holders simply cannot walk in.
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks: Which Is Right for You?
When Rekeying Makes Sense
Rekeying is ideal when your existing locks are in good working condition and you simply need to invalidate old keys. It costs a fraction of a full replacement and can typically be completed in under an hour for an average home. For most Salt Lake City homeowners moving into a previously occupied property, rekeying is the smart, cost-effective choice.
When Full Replacement Is Better
If your locks are outdated, damaged, or low-grade security hardware, upgrading to higher-quality deadbolts or smart locks during your move makes more sense. Eagle Locksmith UT can assess your current hardware and recommend whether a rekey or a full lock replacement better fits your security needs and budget.
How to Rekey After Moving Into a New Home in Salt Lake City
The process is straightforward when you work with a professional locksmith. Here's what to expect:
- Inventory your entry points â front door, back door, garage entry, basement, and any secondary units.
- Call a licensed locksmith â Eagle Locksmith UT serves the entire Salt Lake Valley and can typically schedule same-day or next-day appointments.
- Choose your key configuration â ask about keying all locks alike so one key opens every door.
- Get new keys cut â your locksmith will provide the number of copies you need.
- Test every lock â make sure each door functions smoothly before the locksmith leaves.
If your home also has a commercial-style access point or a multi-unit setup, our team also handles commercial locksmith services tailored to mixed-use properties throughout Utah.
The Cost of Rekeying: A Worthwhile Investment
In Salt Lake City, professional rekeying typically costs between $15 and $25 per lock cylinder, plus a service call fee. For a standard home with three or four entry doors, you're looking at well under $150 total â a small price to pay for complete peace of mind. Compare that to the cost of a burglary, which the FBI estimates averages over $2,600 in losses per incident, and rekeying becomes an obvious value.
Need a Locksmith in Salt Lake City?
Eagle Locksmith UT is available 24/7 for emergencies and scheduled services across the Salt Lake Valley.
đ Call (385) 557-7669Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after moving in should I rekey my locks?
Ideally, you should rekey on moving day or within the first 24 hours of taking possession. The sooner you control who has working keys, the safer your household will be from the very start.
Is rekeying the same as changing the locks?
No. Changing locks means replacing the entire lock hardware with new equipment. Rekeying only modifies the internal pins inside your existing lock cylinder so old keys no longer work. Rekeying is faster and cheaper, while lock replacement is better when hardware is damaged or outdated.
Can I rekey my locks myself?
DIY rekeying kits are available, but they require specific tools and some mechanical skill. Mistakes can leave your lock inoperable or less secure. Hiring a licensed locksmith like Eagle Locksmith UT ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently the first time.
How many keys will I receive after rekeying?
Your locksmith will typically cut as many copies as you request. Most homeowners ask for four to six copies â one per adult household member, a spare hidden at home, and one for a trusted neighbor or family member.
Should I rekey every lock in the house or just the exterior doors?
At minimum, rekey all exterior entry points, including front, back, side, and garage access doors. If interior rooms like a home office or safe room have locks, consider those as well depending on your security needs and what valuables you store there.