Congratulations on your new home. Before you unpack a single box, there's one thing you should do: rekey every exterior lock. You have no idea how many copies of your keys exist — the previous owners, their family members, contractors, real estate agents, and neighbors may all have copies. Here's the complete new-homeowner lock checklist.
Step 1 — Rekey All Exterior Locks Immediately
Rekeying changes the internal pins of your existing locks so all old keys stop working — without replacing the hardware. It costs $25–$35 per cylinder and takes about 30 minutes for a typical 3-lock home. We recommend doing this before you sleep in the house. Ask us about keying alike — having all your exterior locks rekeyed to the same key so you only need one key for everything.
Step 2 — Assess Your Hardware
While we're rekeying, we'll assess the grade and condition of your existing locks. Builder-grade homes often come with Grade 2 or Grade 3 deadbolts that offer minimal kick-in resistance. If your locks are worn, damaged, or low-grade, we'll recommend an upgrade. ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts (Schlage B60N or Kwikset 980) cost $40–$80 per lock and are a worthwhile investment in any home.
Step 3 — Secure the Garage
The garage is one of the most overlooked entry points in a new home. Reset your garage door opener by pressing and holding the 'learn' button on the motor unit until the indicator light goes out — this clears all previously paired remotes. Then reprogram your own remote. Also make sure the door between the garage and the house has a working deadbolt.
Step 4 — Consider a Smart Lock for the Front Door
A smart lock eliminates the risk of lost keys and lets you grant temporary access to contractors, housekeepers, or family members without making copies. Schlage Encode and Kwikset Halo are our top picks — both are Grade 1, weather-resistant, and work without a hub. We install and program them on-site, usually in under an hour.
Step 5 — Set Up a Spare Key System
Once your locks are rekeyed, set up a safe spare key system. Give one copy to a trusted neighbor or family member who lives nearby. If you prefer not to share a key, install a combination lockbox rated for outdoor use near your door. Never hide a spare under a mat, in a fake rock, or above the door frame — these are the first places a burglar checks.
New Home Security Package — Typical Costs
- Rekey all exterior locks (3 locks)$100–$150
- Grade 1 deadbolt upgrade (per lock)$75–$150
- Smart lock installation (front door)$150–$300
- Key-alike service (all locks to one key)Included with rekey
- Security assessmentFree
Most new-home rekey visits take under an hour. We provide upfront pricing before starting any work.
We serve new homeowners across Pleasant Hill, Concord, Walnut Creek, Danville, San Ramon, and all of Contra Costa County. See our residential locksmith services.
New Home Rekey Service Near You
Same-day new-home rekey service throughout Contra Costa and Alameda Counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon after moving in should I rekey my locks?
Ideally, before you sleep in the house. You have no way of knowing how many key copies exist from the previous owner, their family, contractors, or real estate agents. Rekeying takes 30–45 minutes for a typical home and costs $100–$150 total. We offer same-day service throughout Contra Costa County.
Should I rekey or replace my locks when I move in?
Rekeying is sufficient in most cases — it changes the internal pins so all old keys stop working, without replacing the hardware. Replace the locks if they're worn, damaged, low-grade (Grade 2 or 3), or if you want to upgrade to a smart lock. We'll assess your hardware and give you an honest recommendation.
What is "keying alike" and should I do it?
Keying alike means having all your exterior locks rekeyed to the same key — one key opens everything. It's convenient and costs the same as a standard rekey. The only downside is that losing one key means all locks need to be rekeyed. Most homeowners prefer the convenience of one key.
How do I reset my garage door opener when I move in?
Most garage door openers have a "learn" button on the motor unit (usually in the garage ceiling). Press and hold it for 6–10 seconds until the indicator light goes out — this clears all paired remotes. Then reprogram your own remote. Consult your opener's manual for the exact procedure for your model.
What is a Grade 1 deadbolt and do I need one?
ANSI Grade 1 is the highest residential lock rating — it must withstand 250,000 cycles and 360 lbs of force. Most builder-grade homes come with Grade 2 or Grade 3 hardware. Upgrading to Grade 1 (Schlage B60N or Kwikset 980) costs $40–$80 per lock plus installation and significantly improves kick-in resistance.