How Often Should You Change Your Locks? A Home Security Timeline Most People Miss

Most homeowners only think about their locks when something goes wrong. A lost key. A break-in nearby. A door that suddenly won’t turn. But waiting for a problem is often what creates the risk in the first place.

So how often should you change your locks?

The answer depends on timing, lifestyle changes, and security habits, not just the age of the lock itself. At TN Premier Locksmith, we help homeowners protect their homes by understanding when lock changes matter most, not just how to do them.

This guide walks you through the home security timeline most people miss, so you can stay protected without unnecessary replacements.

 

The Simple Rule Most Homeowners Don’t Know

Locks don’t fail all at once. Security weakens gradually.

Keys get copied. Old hardware wears down. Access changes hands. Over time, what once felt secure quietly becomes a risk.

That’s why the question “How often should you change your locks?” isn’t about a single number of years, it’s about life events.

 

When You Should Change Your Locks Immediately

There are moments when changing your locks isn’t optional, it’s essential.

After Moving Into a New Home

Even if the previous owner seems trustworthy, you never truly know how many keys exist or who still has access. Contractors, cleaners, neighbors, and relatives may still have copies.

Changing or rekeying locks after moving in is one of the most important security steps you can take.

After Losing Your Keys

Lost keys mean lost control. Even if you think they’re gone for good, there’s no way to be sure they won’t be found, or used.

If your keys go missing, replacing or rekeying your locks restores control immediately.

After a Break-In or Attempted Break-In

Any forced entry attempt compromises lock integrity. Even if the lock still works, internal components may be weakened.

Replacing locks after a break-in is about restoring both physical security and peace of mind.

After a Relationship or Living Situation Change

Roommates move out. Tenants leave. Relationships end. When access changes, locks should change too.

This is especially important for rental properties and shared homes.

 

How Often Should You Change Your Locks for Maintenance?

Even without a major event, locks don’t last forever.

Every 5–7 Years for Standard Residential Locks

Most traditional locks experience wear over time. Springs weaken. Pins degrade. Tolerances loosen.

If your locks are several years old and feel stiff, inconsistent, or unreliable, replacement is a smart preventive move.

Every 3–5 Years in High-Traffic Homes

Homes with frequent visitors, children, service providers, or rental turnover see faster wear and more key circulation.

In these cases, changing or rekeying locks more often improves security without waiting for a failure.

 

Signs It’s Time to Change Your Locks (Even If Nothing Happened)

You don’t need a dramatic reason to upgrade your security. These warning signs matter:

• The key sticks or turns inconsistently 
• The lock feels loose or wobbly 
• You need to jiggle the key to unlock 
• The lock looks outdated or damaged 
• You don’t remember who has copies 

If any of these sound familiar, your home may be less secure than you think.

Rekey vs Replace: What’s the Difference?

This is a common question we get at TN Premier Locksmith.

Rekeying changes the internal pins so old keys no longer work, while keeping the existing hardware.
Replacing installs entirely new locks and keys.

Rekeying is often faster and more cost-effective when hardware is still in good condition. Replacement is better when locks are worn, outdated, or damaged.

A professional locksmith can help you decide which option makes the most sense for your situation.

 

How Often Should You Change Your Locks for Rentals?

For landlords and property managers, the answer is simple:

Every tenant turnover. Every time.

Rekeying or replacing locks between tenants protects property owners from liability and ensures new tenants feel secure from day one.

 

Home Security Is About Timing, Not Panic

Most break-ins don’t happen because a lock failed overnight. They happen because access wasn’t updated when life changed.

Understanding how often you should change your locks puts you ahead of the risk, not reacting to it.

At TN Premier Locksmith, we focus on smart, timely security decisions that keep homes protected without unnecessary upgrades.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you change your locks if nothing has happened?

Every 5–7 years is a good guideline, sooner if the lock shows wear or access has changed.

Is rekeying as safe as replacing locks?

Yes, when done professionally. Rekeying eliminates old keys and restores control without new hardware.

Do smart locks need to be changed as often?

Smart locks still rely on mechanical components. While access codes can be updated, hardware should still be evaluated every few years.

Should I change locks after buying a house even if it’s new?

Yes. Builders, subcontractors, and inspectors may have had access. Changing locks ensures exclusive control.

 

Protect Your Home Before Security Becomes a Problem

Lock security isn’t about fear, it’s about awareness and timing.

If you’re unsure whether your locks need to be changed or rekeyed, TN Premier Locksmith can help you make the right call with honest guidance and professional service.

👉 Contact TN Premier Locksmith today to review your home’s security and take control of who has access, now and in the future.