You have no idea how many keys to your new home are out there: past owners, cleaners, contractors, the builder. Changing who can open your door is the first thing to do after you get the keys.
What rekeying actually does
Rekeying changes the small pins inside the lock so the old keys stop working and new keys do. The lock on the door stays the same. It is faster and costs much less than new hardware, and it is the right choice when the locks work well and you like how they look.
When to replace instead
Replace the lock when it is worn, sticking or cheap, when you want a stronger deadbolt, or when you want a keypad or smart lock. Near the coast in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and San Clemente, salt air can corrode locks; a gritty, hard-to-turn lock is often better replaced.
One key for every door
If your locks are the same brand and use the same keyway, we can usually rekey them all to one key in the same visit. Mixed brands, like a Kwikset front door and a Schlage side door, may need one lock changed to make that possible.
HOA rules
Many Orange County HOAs, especially in Irvine and South County, have rules about exterior door hardware finish and style. Tell us your HOA and we match the approved look, whether we rekey or install something new.
Do not forget the other doors
Garage entry doors, side gates, mailbox locks if your community allows it, and any keypad codes left by the last owner. A builder or previous owner code on a keypad deadbolt should be reset the first day.
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