Getting the keys to a new home is exciting. But you can’t be sure how many copies of those keys are out there.
If you’re asking should you change the locks when you buy a house, the short answer is yes. This checklist shows what to do and when, so you can settle into Fulham with confidence.
Should You Change the Locks When You Buy a House?
Yes. Change or rekey your locks as soon as you take possession, because you can’t know who still has a key. It’s one of the simplest and most effective security steps for a new home.
The quick checklist:
- Rekey or replace external locks: do it on settlement day if you can.
- Reset garage remotes and codes: previous owners may still have access.
- Check windows and sliding doors: make sure they lock properly.
- Collect every key: from the agent, seller and any tradies.
- Update your insurance: and check its lock requirements.
Why New Homeowners Should Change Locks
A house changes hands, but the old keys don’t disappear on their own. Over the years, many people can end up with copies.
Unknown Keys Mean Unknown Risk
Previous owners, tenants, agents and tradies may all have had keys. Even honest people lose them or pass them on.
You can’t control what you don’t know about. A lock change fixes that quickly.
A Fresh Start Gives You Peace of Mind
When you change the locks, you decide who has access. That alone makes the first night in your new home feel better.
It’s also a good time to check whether your locks are in good shape.
“You can’t control who has a key until you change the lock.”
Getting Prepared Before Settlement
A bit of planning makes settlement day smooth. Spend a little time on this beforehand.
Ask for All Keys and Remotes
Ask the agent or seller for every key, remote, fob and access card. Make a list of what you receive.
If something is missing, that’s another reason to rekey.
Book Your Locksmith Early
Booking ahead means your locks can be changed straight after settlement. It saves waiting and reduces risk.
Tell the locksmith how many external doors you have and what type of locks they are.
Expert tip: Book your locksmith for settlement day itself. The sooner the locks change, the sooner your keys are the only keys.
Your Lock Checklist for Settlement Day
When you get the keys, work through this list. It covers the key points.
Rekey or Replace External Locks
Rekeying changes the internal pins so old keys won’t work. It suits locks that are in good condition.
If a lock is worn, loose or low quality, replacement is the better choice. A locksmith can advise on the best option for each door.
Check Deadlocks on Every External Door
A deadlock adds strong protection and meets the Australian Standard for mechanical locksets when it’s a quality one (AS 4145). Make sure the front, back and side doors all have one.
If any are missing, add them.
Reset Garage Remotes and Codes
Previous owners may still have garage remotes or keypad codes. Reset the codes and reprogram the remotes.
Also check any gate locks, shed locks and letterbox keys.
Securing the Rest of the House in Week One
Once the doors are done, move on to the rest. These checks take little time.
Windows and Sliding Doors
Test every window latch and sliding door lock. Fix anything loose, broken or missing.
Louvres and older windows often need extra attention.
Alarms, Cameras and Smart Devices
If the home has an alarm, camera or smart doorbell, reset passwords and codes. Remove the previous owner’s access.
Check batteries in smoke alarms and test them.
Lighting and Visibility
Sensor lights near entrances and side gates help deter unwanted visitors. Trim shrubs that block your view of doors and windows.
Habits to Build Early When Settling In
Good habits start on day one. They don’t cost anything.
Keep Track of Your Keys
Decide who gets a spare and keep a simple record. Avoid hiding spares outside.
A lockbox or a trusted neighbour is safer than a plant pot.
Meet the Neighbours
Neighbours who look out for each other make a street safer. Swap numbers and say hello.
Expert tip: Keep a note of who holds each key and when you last changed the locks. It makes future decisions simple.
Insurance and New Home Security
Your insurer may have requirements for locks and security. These vary between policies.
Read your policy or call your insurer to confirm. Keep receipts for work done.
Common Mistakes New Homeowners Make
A few mistakes are easy to avoid. Here are the main ones.
Waiting Too Long
Some people plan to change locks “later”. Later often turns into months.
Do it at settlement if you can.
Forgetting the Small Locks
Gates, sheds, garages and letterboxes are easy to overlook. They’re often where tools and ladders are kept.
When to Call a Local Locksmith
Call a locksmith as soon as you have the keys, or before. A local locksmith can rekey, replace, and check every door and window quickly.
Conclusion
The first few days in a new home set the tone. Collect every key and remote, rekey or replace your external locks, and reset garage codes. Then check your windows, sliding doors and smaller locks like gates and sheds.
Keep a simple note of who holds each key. Doing this in your first week gives your new home a strong start.