{"id":104944,"date":"2025-08-20T16:04:42","date_gmt":"2025-08-20T23:04:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=104944"},"modified":"2025-08-20T16:04:42","modified_gmt":"2025-08-20T23:04:42","slug":"changing-locks-on-house","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/changing-locks-on-house\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Change the Locks on Your New House"},"content":{"rendered":"

One of the most important things to do after <\/span>buying a home<\/span><\/a> is take steps to keep it safe. For some, that might mean <\/span>installing security cameras<\/span><\/a> or other safety measures. But something as simple as changing locks on your house can go a long way when it comes to adding an extra layer of security. So, how do you replace the locks in your house? And should you call a professional, or is this a potential <\/span>DIY project?<\/span><\/a> This Redfin article covers all that and more.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why should I change the locks on my new house?<\/span><\/h2>\n

While the existing locks on your house probably work just fine, it\u2019s still recommended to replace them after moving in for security reasons. If the previous owner ever lost their keys and kept the same locks, a replica could be floating around, which could be a problem if they ever fell into the wrong hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s also an opportunity to upgrade \u2014 maybe you want a smart lock for convenience or a style that better matches your home\u2019s <\/span>curb appeal<\/span><\/a>. Once you\u2019ve decided on the type of locks you want, the process for changing them is straightforward. Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/span><\/p>\n

How to change locks on your house<\/span><\/h2>\n

1. Take an inventory of all the doors that need new locks<\/span><\/h3>\n

Make a note of how many of your house\u2019s doors lead outside. Each of these doors will need new locks, not just the main entrance, so you\u2019ll need to buy a new lock for each.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Buy new locks and gather tools<\/span><\/h3>\n

When buying new locks, an important detail to keep in mind is the brand of the old ones. In many cases, different locks from the same brand will fit better than those from another company.<\/span><\/p>\n

In terms of tools, this is a relatively simple project. You should only need a measuring tape to make sure the new lock fits the opening and a screwdriver to remove the old lock and install the new one.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Remove the old locks from the door<\/span><\/h3>\n

To remove the existing locks from your doors, begin by using your screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding them in place. From there, you can remove the outside plate, then open the door and unscrew the plate on the side as well as any other components of the lock.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Install the new lock into the door<\/span><\/h3>\n

Once the old lock has been removed, it\u2019s time to install the new one. Be sure to closely follow the instructions on the lock kit, placing the deadbolt and other parts into the proper place before securing them in place with screws.<\/span><\/p>\n

5. Test the new locks<\/span><\/h3>\n

New locks are great, but it doesn\u2019t matter if they don\u2019t do the job they\u2019re designed to do. Make sure you test out each of the locks after installing them. Defective locks will give you a false sense of security and leave your home vulnerable to intruders. If any components of the lock seem loose or the door doesn\u2019t lock properly, consider reinstalling the lock or calling a professional to check it out.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Make extra copies of keys for the new locks<\/span><\/h3>\n

After your new locks have been installed, all that\u2019s left to do is make keys for those locks. Make sure everyone who lives in the house with you has their own copy of the key.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Pro tips for smoother installation and better security<\/span><\/h2>\n