Moving Into a New Home? Do This on Day One

The most practical first security step when moving into a property is simple:

make sure you control access.

That usually means changing or rekeying locks — especially on the main entrance.

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Why it matters

You can’t easily know:

• how many key copies exist
• who received keys over time (family, contractors, cleaners, previous tenants)
• whether keys were copied without record

This is about control and certainty.

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What to check on move-in day

1) Identify the lock type

• Wooden door: usually mortice lock + nightlatch
• UPVC/composite: euro cylinder + multi-point mechanism

2) Decide your approach

• Cylinder replacement (common on UPVC/composite): fast, often the simplest option
• Rekey / lock replacement (depends on lock type): your locksmith can advise based on the hardware

3) Check the door alignment

If you need to lift/push to lock, the multi-point may not be engaging cleanly. Fixing alignment reduces both lockouts and wear.

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Good upgrades to do at the same time

• upgrade to an anti-snap cylinder on UPVC/composite doors
• ensure strike plates/keeps are solid
• confirm window locks on accessible windows

Moving in soon? Call: 020 3051 8388