Why Rekeying Is a Must After Moving Into Your New LA Home
Hey there, new neighbor! Congrats on snagging that dream home in Los Angeles—whether you’re in Encino’s leafy suburbs, Calabasas’s celebrity-adjacent streets, or the bustling heart of Van Nuys. But before you start unpacking those boxes or debating which wall gets the neon accent paint (no judgment here), let’s talk about something way more urgent: rekeying your locks.
We get it—moving is chaos. Between scheduling movers, arguing over whose couch stays, and figuring out why the previous owner thought wallpapering the bathroom in leopard print was a good idea, rekeying might slip your mind. But here’s the cold, hard truth: your new home’s locks are basically a mystery box of who-has-access. Former owners, their dog walker, their ex’s cousin’s yoga instructor… you get the idea.
At ALL OVER Locksmith, we’ve seen it all. From Northridge to Chatsworth, we’ve helped countless Angelenos ditch the “key anxiety” that comes with a new home. Let’s break down why rekeying isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a non-negotiable.
The Key to Peace of Mind? It’s Not Under the Mat.
Let’s start with the basics: rekeying means changing the internal pins of your existing locks so old keys no longer work. It’s faster and cheaper than a full lock change, and it lets you keep your hardware (perfect if you love that vintage doorknob but not the idea of strangers waltzing in).
But why is this so critical in Los Angeles? Well, besides the fact that LA’s cast of characters includes everyone from aspiring influencers to very determined squirrels, our city’s sheer size means your home could’ve had a dozen previous owners or tenants. Key replacement isn’t just about convenience—it’s about control.
Here’s what we recommend for new homeowners:
- Rekey ALL exterior locks (yes, even the garage door—more on that later).
- Upgrade to High-Security Deadbolts or Mul-T-Lock systems if your locks look like they’ve seen better days.
- Consider adding smart locks or Electronic Keypads for keyless convenience (because losing keys is basically a hobby for some of us).
Pro tip: If you’re Googling “locksmith near me” at 2 AM after a residential lockout, save our number now. Trust us, future-you will high-five present-you.
LA Living 101: Your Locks Aren’t Just for Show
LA homes are as diverse as our taco trucks. A Craftsman bungalow in Thousand Oaks needs different security than a downtown loft with Exit Devices and Panic Bars. But no matter your vibe, here’s why rekeying should top your move-in checklist:
1. The “Who Else Has a Key?” Horror Movie Plot
Imagine this: You’re cozy on the couch, binge-watching the latest true crime doc, when—click—the front door opens. Cue the dramatic music. Turns out, the previous owner’s babysitter still has a key and “just wanted to say hi.” Awkward? Absolutely. Avoidable? 100%.
Rekeying erases that risk. And if you’re in a high-traffic area like Northridge or Chatsworth, where foot traffic is heavier, lock change services are your best defense against uninvited guests.
2. Landlords, Tenants, and the Key Handoff Circus
If your place was a rental, who knows how many copies of the keys are floating around? Landlords aren’t exactly known for meticulous key tracking (no offense, landlords). A quick rekey ensures that “commercial lockout service” call you make isn’t because your old tenant’s buddy decided to crash.
3. The Upgrade Your Home Secretly Deserves
Those builder-grade locks? They’re about as secure as a screen door on a submarine. Swapping them for High-Security Deadbolts or Access Control Systems turns your home into a fortress without sacrificing style. Bonus: Insurance companies love this stuff.
Rekeying vs. Lock Change: What’s the Diff?
We’ll keep this simple:
| Rekeying | Lock Change |
|---|---|
| Changes the lock’s internal pins | Replaces the entire lock |
| Keeps existing hardware | Requires new hardware |
| Ideal if your locks are in good shape | Best for outdated or damaged locks |
| Cost-effective ($) | Slightly pricier ($$) |
At ALL OVER Locksmith, we’ll assess your setup and recommend what’s best. Spoiler: If your locks are older than avocado toast, go for the lock change.
Beyond the Front Door: Don’t Forget These Spots!
Rekeying isn’t just for your main entry. Let’s play “LA Home Security Bingo”:
- Garage door locksmith: Garages are prime targets. That flimsy lock? Yeah, it’s not stopping anyone.
- Electronic Keypads: Perfect for Airbnb hosts or forgetful folks (we’ve all been there).
- Panic Bars: Crucial for multi-family units or commercial locksmith services in areas like Van Nuys.
FYI, we service everything from studio apartments in Encino to sprawling estates in Calabasas. No job’s too big, small, or weird.
“But Wait—What About Smart Locks?”
Great question! Smart locks are awesome (we’re obsessed too), but they’re not a magic fix. You still need to:
- Delete old codes or user profiles.
- Update your Wi-Fi password (because hackers exist).
- Pair them with High-Security Deadbolts for layered protection.
And hey, if your smart lock ever glitches and leaves you stranded, our emergency locksmith team is just a call away.
Your LA Neighborhood Matters More Than You Think
Security needs vary across LA’s patchwork of communities. Here’s the scoop:
- Thousand Oaks/Calabasas: Quiet but still targets for “opportunistic” crimes. High-end locks = worth the investment.
- Van Nuys/Northridge: Higher foot traffic? Beef up those Exit Devices and exterior lighting.
- Chatsworth/Encino: Blend style and security with Mul-T-Lock or sleek Electronic Keypads.
Wherever you are, ALL OVER Locksmith’s got your back. We’re local, we’re fast, and we won’t ghost you like that one contractor from Yelp.
3 Burning Questions About Rekeying (Answered)
1. “Can’t I Just Rekey Myself?”
Sure, if you enjoy spending 4 hours watching YouTube tutorials and still ending up with a disassembled lock on the floor. Pros like us do it in 20 minutes. Your call 🙂
2. “How Often Should I Rekey?”
After moving in, post-breakup, or anytime you lose a key. Otherwise, every few years is smart—especially if you’re in a rental-heavy area like Van Nuys.
3. “What If I’m Locked Out Mid-Rekey?”
That’s why you hire a pro! Our emergency locksmith team can handle lockouts, rekeying, and even commercial lockout service without breaking a sweat.
Ready to Ditch the Key Drama? Let’s Chat!
Look, we’re not here to kill your moving-day vibe. But in a city as dynamic (and occasionally chaotic) as Los Angeles, a little precaution goes a long way. Whether you’re upgrading to smart locks, fortifying your garage, or just need a quick rekey, ALL OVER Locksmith is your go-to.
Don’t wait for a “plot twist” to realize your locks are outdated. Contact us today—we’ll make sure your new home stays yours, and yours alone.
(And hey, if you spot that leopard-print wallpaper while we’re there, we promise not to judge. Much.)