Change the Locks When You Buy a Home – Here’s Why It Matters

Moving into a new home is exciting—but your security should be the first thing you settle. At Locksman, we recommend that all homeowners change their locks as soon as possible after settlement. Here’s why this simple step can make all the difference.



11 Important Reasons to Change the Locks After Buying a House

1. You Don’t Know Who Has a Key

The biggest risk is the unknown. You simply can’t be sure how many copies of the keys were made by previous owners—and who still has them. Cleaners, friends, neighbours, even past tenants may have access.

2. Real Estate Agents and Tradespeople Had Access

During the sale process, keys may have been handed to estate agents, builders, cleaners, or photographers. Copies can be made quickly without you ever knowing.

3. Former Occupants May Return

In some cases, past owners might come back thinking they left something behind. Even unintentional re-entry is a serious security issue if the locks haven’t been changed.

4. Peace of Mind

Changing the locks gives you one less thing to worry about. You can rest easy knowing that you’re the only person with keys to your new home.

5. Older Locks May Be Worn or Easy to Pick

Many homes come with old or worn-out locks. These may not only be vulnerable to break-ins but can also jam or fail over time. A fresh set of high-quality locks ensures long-term protection.

6. Potential Master Key Systems

In unit blocks or townhouses, the previous locks may have been part of a master key system. This means someone else’s key might still open your door. A quick rekeying or full replacement solves this.

7. Lost or Misplaced Keys

Previous owners may have lost keys and assumed they were gone forever. But a lost key found by the wrong person could put your home at risk.

8. Your Insurance May Require It

Some home insurance policies require lock changes as part of their conditions. If there’s a break-in and the locks weren’t changed after you moved in, a claim might be denied.

9. Restrict Access from Former Partners or Family

If you’ve acquired the home through separation, divorce, or inheritance, you’ll want to ensure that anyone who previously lived there or had access can no longer enter.

10. A Great Opportunity to Upgrade Your Locks

While changing the locks, it’s worth upgrading to stronger and more modern options:

  • High-security deadbolts
  • Matching all locks to a single key

These upgrades improve convenience and safety at the same time.

11. It’s a Standard Safety Measure

Just like checking the smoke alarms or organising insurance, changing your locks is part of responsible homeownership. It’s quick, affordable, and gives you control.


Servicing South East Melbourne

Locksman is a mobile locksmith service based in Malvern East, servicing all suburbs within 20km, including Ashburton, Glen Iris, Box Hill, Camberwell, and more.

Our Locksmith Services Include:

  • Lock changes
  • Lock rekeying
  • Deadbolt installation
  • Smart lock upgrades
  • Emergency lockout assistance

📞 Need Your Locks Changed? We’re Ready to Help

Whether you’ve just bought your home or want to secure your property properly, we can help.

Phone: 1300 569 626
Website: www.locksman.com.au