A Complete Locksmith’s Checklist:
As you move into a new home, it may feel like opening a chapter filled with possibilities. Walls and rooms are still unfamiliar, and each lock and entry point is unknown. Now is the perfect time to take control of security before habits form and routines settle.
However, security isn't limited to having a dog in the yard or installing cameras. There's a lot you need to do to secure every entry point, from door frames and window latches to garage points, alarm systems, and smart entry systems.
As a local locksmith Birmingham, we're quite familiar with everything that keeps a home secure. Here are some of our home security tips for new occupants in residential properties.
10 Home Security Tips After Moving In
Once the boxes are stacked and the keys have been handed over, security should move to the top of your list. Here's what we suggest as your designated emergency locksmith Birmingham.
Change Every Lock Immediately
One of the first things a locksmith will tell you is that old keys have long memories. You don’t know how many spare copies might be floating around from previous owners, relatives, or even tradespeople who once worked on the property.
It's best to change every lock to get a clean slate. It's almost like wiping your phone before you sell it.
If you're in the Birmingham area, you don't have to spend hours searching for ''lock change near me.'' DGM Locksmiths are your go-to with 24/7 emergency service, quick call-out response time, MLA-approved members, and a six-month guarantee.
When you call a trusted locksmith Birmingham, you can rest assured that they will upgrade deadbolts, cylinders, and fit stronger hardware right away. Reliability is our promise at DGM Locksmiths.
Reinforce Doors and Frames.
A lock is only as strong as the door and frame holding it. Many new homeowners discover their exterior doors look solid but are actually hollow inside or attached with short screws that pull out under pressure. Post move-in is an ideal time to inspect hinges, strike plates, and frame depth.
Add longer screws, steel strike plates, or security-rated door hardware to turn a vulnerable entry point into a strong barrier. These upgrades don't necessarily require a full remodel, as a skilled professional can complete them during the same visit as your lock change.
Secure Windows and Sliding Doors
Windows and sliding doors often become an overlooked weak spot. It’s easy to focus on the front door. But, in doing so, homeowners forget that ground-floor windows can provide quick entry to anyone testing them.
So, check every window latch and handle. If anything feels loose or outdated, have it replaced right away.
You can also add secondary locks or key-operated window latches to increase security. For sliding doors, add security bars or track locks to block forced openings. Basically, you must treat these glass areas with the same seriousness you give to your main entry points.
If you’re searching for a ‘’locksmith near me’’ who specializes in both door and window locks, DGM Locksmiths is ready to be at your service. We’ll make sure these entryways keep intruders out to provide you with utmost peace of mind.
Upgrade Your Entry Technology
Mechanical locks are not the only way to get into modern houses. Keypads, smart locks, and video doorbells now provide additional security. After you move in, determine how technology can support your security goals.
If your property already has a digital lock or keypad, reset every code immediately. If it doesn’t, a local locksmith Birmingham can install a system for your needs, with options like simple PIN pads and locks that integrate with your phone.
However, this doesn’t mean that traditional security goes away. Both these approaches can work in tandem.
Review Garage and Side Entrances
Garages and side entrances often receive less attention than front doors, but can be even more attractive to intruders. Many homes have interior doors connecting the garage to the main living area, which can become a hidden weakness.
After moving in, inspect every point where the garage connects to your home. Replace any flimsy latches or outdated locks. Also, reinforce the door from the garage into the house with a deadbolt if it doesn’t already have one.
Similarly, think about access from the outside, too. If your garage door opens electronically, change its keypad code. Check that manual locks or side bolts still function. Trust us, this inspection now will save you from issues later.
Opt for Re-Keying or Combination Changes
You don’t always have to change a lock to take control of access. A re-key or combination change allows you to keep the same hardware but reset the internal mechanism. This way, all old keys are useless. Compared to installing new locks, this method is faster and more cost-effective.
Search for ‘’lock change near me’’ services to find experts who can offer this service. It’s especially useful if your property already has high-quality hardware or deadlocks installed.
While re-keying, many professionals also inspect your door and window locks. They may offer small upgrades like padlocks or new deadbolts where needed. And if your home’s security is compromised in the future, you can always count on emergency locksmith Birmingham services to re-key or install new locks again.
Improve Exterior Lighting and Visibility
Good lighting is one of the simplest ways to discourage unwanted visitors. Walk around your home at night and note any dark corners. These may be side paths or overgrown areas where someone could hide.
Place motion-activated lights near doors, driveways, and back patios to change how your property appears to the outside. Lighting also helps you and your family feel safe arriving home after dark. Modern LED lights consume less electricity and can save you anywhere from £2,000 to £3,000 over their lifetime in energy costs.
Pair lighting with clear visibility, such as trimmed hedges or see-through fencing, to remove hiding spots. These steps also strengthen every other security measure you’ve taken.
Establish a Routine for Keys and Codes
Once locks are changed or re-keyed, the next challenge is managing who has access. Decide early on how many spare keys you’ll keep and where they’ll be stored. If using keypad codes, create unique codes for trusted people and change them periodically.
Avoid hiding keys under doormats or flowerpots. These spots are the first places someone will check. Instead, keep a spare with a trusted friend or use a secure lockbox in an inconspicuous location.
Meet Your Neighbours Early
Human connection matters a lot in your home’s security. Introduce yourself to the people living next door or across the street. Build a friendly network of watchful eyes this way. A quick chat at the mailbox or a wave over the fence can make a difference.
Neighbours who know you’re new are more likely to notice unfamiliar activity around your home. They can alert you if something looks out of place or hold onto a package while you’re away. Even a single trusted neighbour can become an informal ally. Over time, this small step adds another layer of safety that no gadget can replace.
Check Outdoor Structures and Perimeter
Sheds, fences, and garden gates are easy to overlook during a move, but they often hold tools, bikes, and other valuables. Inspect these areas as soon as possible. Make sure fences are intact and gates close firmly.
If a shed or outbuilding is present, add basic reinforcement or weatherproof storage for anything valuable. Clear weeds and trim back shrubs near these structures to improve visibility from the house.
You can also create lighting paths that lead to them, even with solar options. They keep outdoor spaces from becoming blind spots and extend your home’s security beyond the main building.
Quick Home Security Checklist After Moving In:
TLDR: here’s a quick checklist to follow once you get the keys to your new home.
Change Every Lock Immediately: Replace or re-key old locks and reset any digital codes.
Reinforce Doors and Frames: Upgrade hinges, strike plates, and screws for stronger entry points.
Secure Windows and Sliding Doors: Add secondary locks, window latches, or track bars for sliding doors.
Upgrade Your Entry Technology: Install or reset keypads, smart locks, or video doorbells.
Review Garage and Side Entrances: Inspect locks, keypad codes, and interior doors connecting the garage to the home.
Consider Re-Keying or Combination Changes: Reset internal mechanisms on existing locks instead of replacing them all.
Improve Exterior Lighting and Visibility: Add motion lights and trim overgrown areas to remove hiding spots.
Establish a Routine for Keys and Codes: Control who has access and rotate codes periodically.
Meet Your Neighbours Early: Build a friendly network for extra eyes and quick alerts.
Check Outdoor Structures and Perimeter: Secure sheds, fences, gates, and garden paths to eliminate weak points.
Conclusion
It doesn’t have to be complicated to secure a new home. Small, deliberate steps taken early can set the tone for years to come. Each action we’ve shared above creates a strong barrier between your private space and the outside world.
Professional help makes this process smoother. Search for a ‘’locksmith near me’’ for expert lock replacement or re-keying services. A trusted locksmith Birmingham gives you access to people who deal with these challenges every day.
At DGM Locksmiths, we become partners in your home security. Get in touch now to avail a service.