Table of Contents
- Quick surprising fact
- Why deciding whether to rekey or replace locks matters
- 1. Assess the scene first
- 2. Rekeying explained and when it helps
- 3. Replacing locks explained and when it is necessary
- 4. Cost comparison and time to act
- 5. Security and insurance considerations
- 6. How locksmiths evaluate your lock system
- 7. Practical step-by-step checklist after a break-in
- Conclusion and call to action
Quick surprising fact
Surprising statistic: One study found that a large share of burglars enter through the front door, making door locks one of the most targeted security points in a home. This makes the decision to rekey or replace locks after a break-in urgent and practical. Federal Bureau of Investigation
Why deciding whether to rekey or replace locks matters
First, your safety and peace of mind depend on how quickly you secure entry points. Second, the right choice affects both short-term costs and long-term security. Third, your insurance claim and evidence handling can hinge on how the scene is treated. Therefore, deciding correctly is both a safety and financial decision. Additionally, qualified locksmiths follow best practices set by professional organizations so you get a reliable result. ALOA.org
1. Assess the scene first
Look carefully at where entry occurred and how.
- Inspect the door frame and lock hardware for visible damage.
- Check whether locks were picked, forced, or left intact.
Gather basic facts before any changes.
- Take photos for insurance records and police reports.
- Note the date and time of the break-in and any missing keys.
Consider liability and evidence.
- If the police are involved, confirm if they recommend preserving the scene.
- If unsure, ask the responding officer whether immediate lock changes will affect reporting.
These first steps help you decide whether a rekey or a full replacement is necessary. For wider crime prevention guidance see National Crime Prevention Council.
2. Rekeying explained and when it helps
What rekeying is and how it works:
- Rekeying changes the internal pins of a lock so old keys no longer work.
- Rekeying keeps the existing hardware while making new keys unique.
When rekeying is a good option:
- If keys were lost or stolen but locks were not damaged.
- If you have trust concerns but the lock cylinder remains functional.
Benefits and limits of rekeying:
- Lower cost than full replacement in many cases.
- Faster service with minimal disruption to door frames and trim.
Security note:
- Rekeying assumes the lock mechanism is not compromised or tampered with.
- Rekeying does not fix broken deadbolts or damaged strike plates.
If you want to find a certified locksmith for rekeying advice, consider checking professional associations that list trained locksmiths: ALOA.org
3. Replacing locks explained and when it is necessary
What replacing involves:
- Replacing removes the old lock cylinder and installs a new hardware set.
- It can include a stronger deadbolt, secure strike plate, and upgraded cylinder.
When replacement is required:
- If the lock or door frame suffered physical damage during forced entry.
- If the existing lock is obsolete or lacks resistance to modern attack methods.
Benefits of a full replacement:
- Provides a chance to upgrade to higher security grade hardware.
- Eliminates any unknown vulnerabilities in old hardware.
When to choose replacement over rekeying:
- If the lock was drilled or visibly compromised.
- If you want modern security features such as anti-bumping or smart lock compatibility.
For technical guidance on strong residential locks and standards, see National Crime Prevention Council.
4. Cost comparison and time to act
Typical cost differences:
- Rekeying tends to cost less because it uses existing hardware and parts.
- Replacement costs more but can include higher grade locks and installation labor.
Time to act matters:
- Quick action reduces the window when an old key could be used.
- However, immediate replacements may not be necessary when the cylinder is intact.
Financial perspective for decision makers:
- If budgets are tight, rekeying provides immediate security at a lower cost.
- If long-term protection is the priority, investment in replacement may pay off.
5. Security and insurance considerations
Insurance reporting and documentation:
- File a police report and document all damage for insurance purposes.
- Keep receipts from any locksmith services for claims.
Insurance companies and required actions:
- Some insurers require evidence that you secured the property quickly.
- Other insurers may prefer full replacement in certain circumstances, so check your policy.
Homeowner responsibility and preventative steps:
- Change locks if former tenants or unknown persons had access.
- Consider bolstering entry points with longer bolts and reinforced strike plates.
For insurance and crime trends, consult Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bureau of Justice resources.
6. How locksmiths evaluate your lock system
Onsite inspection checklist:
- Locksmiths inspect cylinder integrity, latch, and bolt operation.
- They test door alignment, frame strength, and the condition of the strike plate.
Recommendations you should expect:
- A locksmith may recommend rekeying if the cylinder is undamaged and secure.
- They may advise full replacement plus reinforcement if the frame or lock is compromised.
Certifications and trust signals:
- Choose a locksmith with recognized certification for peace of mind.
- Professional associations supply directories to locate qualified technicians: ALOA.org
7. Practical step-by-step checklist after a break-in
Immediate steps to secure the property:
- Call police, file a report, and take photos for documentation.
- Contact a licensed locksmith to evaluate the lock hardware.
Short-term security measures:
- Add temporary security such as a door bar or portable alarm while you arrange repairs.
- Change exterior lighting and remove hiding spots near entryways.
Long-term measures to reduce risk:
- Install grade one deadbolts and reinforce strike plates.
- Consider key control measures or a master key audit for complex properties.
Follow up and monitoring:
- Keep an inventory of keys and who has access.
- Reassess locks annually or after any change in household staff or tenants.
For additional home security tips and recommendations, explore National Crime Prevention Council resources.
Conclusion and call to action
In conclusion, the decision to rekey or replace locks after a break-in depends on damage level, trust issues, and long-term security goals. Rekeying is fast and cost-effective when the lock is undamaged. Replacing is stronger and allows hardware upgrades when the lock or frame is compromised. For expert evaluation and reliable service, rely on certified professionals to assess damage and recommend the best option.
If you want an experienced locksmith to inspect your lock and recommend a secure solution, contact I-Tech Locksmith Arlington online at www.i-tech-locksmith.com and request an on-site security check today. Our team can explain both rekeying and replacement options and help you choose the right protection for your property.
Contact us at
Phone : 817-383-1387
Location : 1738 W Division St, Arlington, TX 76012
Website : www.i-tech-locksmith.com
Internal links
- For related steps about rekey timing, see our post on when to rekey your locks.
- If your lock is worn or obsolete, read our guide on when to replace your locks.
- For common lock problems and prevention advice, see our guide on most common lock problems.