22 Sep Should You Change The Locks When You Move House? A Home Security Guide

Congratulations on moving into your new home! Even if the sale and move went smoothly, moving house can still feel overwhelming. Once you’re settled, your focus naturally shifts to unpacking and decorating to get comfortable. But an important question remains – should you change the locks right away?

Security experts do recommend doing so. Research has shown that you are more likely to experience burglary within the first 12 months of moving, making early moving house security decisions particularly important. While replacing locks might feel like a small task, it plays a big role in helping you feel safe from day one.

Is Home Security A High Priority When Moving Home?

When planning a move, practical considerations take priority over security. As shown in a Yale survey, people have reported that kitchen features such as dishwasher space ranked higher than home protection measures. Furthermore, 16% of participants said they do not always lock doors and windows when leaving, while 70% reported not having a burglar alarm installed.

It is also more common than many expect for occupants to be home during a burglary. According to the Office for National Statistics, someone was present in over 64% of residential burglary incidents, with 43% unaware at the time. With many burglaries happening overnight, taking steps to strengthen your moving-house security early can provide valuable reassurance and help you settle in with confidence.

Can You Be Sure You Have All The Keys To Your Home?

One of the main risks following a house move is uncertainty around who may still have spare keys. While previous homeowners may have shared access with neighbours, family or cleaners over time, meaning spare keys from previous owners could still exist.

With the excitement and pressure of moving, security tasks can slip down the priority list. However, statistics suggest that a small proportion of burglaries involve entry using a key, reinforcing the value of arranging lock changes soon after moving in. Replacing locks removes doubt and confirms you are the only person having access to your property, giving you greater peace of mind.

Is It A Requirement Of Your Insurance?

Home insurance policies can vary, but some providers may expect appropriate security measures to be put in place. Understanding your home insurance lock requirements is important, as some insurers need evidence of forced entry when processing burglary claims.

For example, if unauthorised access occurs using an existing key, this could complicate matters. Policies may also specify acceptable lock standards for doors and windows. If you are unsure whether your current doors meet these standards, exploring modern secure front doors could provide added reassurance.

Do I Need New Windows And Doors?

For security purposes, replacing locks does not typically require new windows or doors. uPVC, timber, aluminium and composite systems can usually accommodate lock replacements without altering the frames themselves. However, if your doors or windows are older, upgrading to modern composite doors or secure glazing options can offer enhanced protection.

While upgrading windows or doors may be part of longer-term plans, changing locks offers an immediate way to strengthen protection while you settle into your home. This can also help ensure your property aligns with home insurance lock requirements, giving you added reassurance as you get settled.

Changing your locks after moving may seem like a small job, but it can make a real difference to how secure your home feels. Prioritising your moving house security helps remove concerns around access and allows you to settle in with confidence. It is also helpful to keep your home insurance lock requirements in mind, as meeting these can provide extra reassurance as you get comfortable in your new space.

If you are thinking about improving your home’s security further, Park Lane can offer advice on suitable doors, windows and locking options, including secure composite doors and uPVC systems designed with modern locking.

Take a little time to explore our products to help your new house feel safe and secure, or contact a member of our team today to help get the best solutions for you!