From time to time, the locks you use every day may start to act funny or may not perform as well as they used to. Sometimes, a simple adjustment or repair is all that is needed in order to get your locks working properly again. However, just as with all devices, locks have a limited lifespan. You may need to replace a lock sooner rather than later, depending on the age of certain locks you may use.

If you are curious about lock changes for your home, apartment, vehicle, or business, there are several things you need to know. The following article will give you an overview of when lock replacements are typically needed for various properties. If at any point you are concerned about your safety when it comes to a faulty or broken lock, make sure to contact a professional to help you immediately.

The Difference Between Rekeying and Replacing Locks

Before we go over when to replace the locks on various properties, you should know the difference between rekeying and replacing locks. Rekeying a lock differs from replacing one altogether in a couple of ways. When you rekey your locks, the lock itself remains on the door and intact. The internal mechanisms in the lock, however, are changed. This allows a new key to be used for the lock and the old ones to become obsolete. Rekeying is often done when apartments change tenants, for example. In this scenario, it may not be necessary to replace the lock entirely, but simply to have a new key be usable by a brand-new occupant.

Replacing locks, on the other hand, means that the entire lock and any other associated hardware is removed and replaced. The good news about replacing your locks is that, at the same time, brand new keys will be able to be used. When you replace any locks on your property, you also essentially rekey them at the same time since a new key set can be used.

Residential Property Lock Changes

Homeowners have free reign when it comes to changing the locks on their homes. As long as you are not renting your home and are the rightful owner, you can choose to change your home locks at any time.

One of the most common reasons that homeowners may choose to change their locks is to upgrade. Electronic and smart locks are becoming increasingly popular. Usually, when homeowners decide to make the transition to an electronic lock, replacing the old one is necessary. Some electronic models may work in conjunction with the locks currently placed on your door, but most models will require a complete lock change and installation of brand-new locks.

Lock changes on home properties will also need to happen when the lock itself is broken, worn, or no longer working properly. This is especially true if you have already tried basic repairs or maintenance procedures, such as adding lubrication and tightening the screws on the lock. Sometimes, locks simply reach their limit and no amount of maintenance will help restore them to working condition. It is better to replace a lock entirely, rather than risk continuing to use a faulty one.

Apartments, Condos, and Townhomes

For apartment, condo, and townhome renters, it is likely going to be against your rental contract to make any sort of lock changes on your own accord. If you live in one of these properties, rent your home, or live in a location that is controlled by the Home Owner’s Association, it is likely you will have restrictions of some sort that will need to be followed.

If you rent your apartment or home and need a lock change, be sure to consult your rental agreement about the rules surrounding lock changes or speak to your property management. If you have a legitimate reason for needing a lock change, they may be able to compensate for the replacement or assist you in other ways. 

Those that live in HOA controlled locations will need to be careful about lock changes they make that might affect the look of their homes. Some homeowners may be allowed to change the locks inside of their home without permission, but may be required to adhere to certain lock types of styles if they wish to change the locks on any exterior doors. The rules and regulations will vary depending on where you live and whether or not you own, rent, or must follow HOA rules. 

If at any point you are concerned about your safety or the longevity of the locks in your apartment, condo, or other rented space, be sure to reach out to your property management. Most complexes will be able to address your concerns and instruct you on how to go about receiving a lawful lock change. 

Vehicles

Just like with your home, if you plan on upgrading your vehicle locks to electronic or keyless entry locks of some sort, a vehicle lock replacement may be necessary. Electronic locks for your vehicle will differ slightly from home electronic locks. You will want to make sure to work with a locksmith that has experience placing electronic locks in vehicles.

Hire a Professional Expert in Sandy Springs!

Are you looking for exceptional locksmithing services? Do you need locks replaced, repaired, or rekeyed? At My Top Locksmith, LLC in Sandy Springs, Georgia, our locksmiths can take care of all of your lock and key requests! Our skilled team members have all received on-the-job training and professional experience in the art of locksmithing. We also background screen each of our locksmiths, guaranteeing all of our customers that they will be working with someone they can trust. Your security concerns matter to us! Let us provide you with exceptional lock repairs, installations, and other upgrades that will help give you and those that matter to you most, the peace of mind you deserve! Leave all your safety and security needs to our experts at My Top Locksmith, LLC! Call now!