Moving House in Bishop’s Stortford? Here’s Why You Should Change Your Locks

Moving into a new home is exciting — new space, new neighbours, a fresh start. But one crucial security step is often overlooked:

Changing the locks.

If you’ve recently moved into a property in Bishop’s Stortford, replacing or upgrading your locks should be at the top of your priority list. Here’s why.

🔑 You Don’t Know Who Still Has Keys

Even if the previous owners seem trustworthy, you can’t be certain how many keys are still in circulation.

Copies may have been given to:

• Previous owners

• Tenants

• Estate agents

• Cleaners

• Builders or contractors

• Neighbours

• Family members

Keys can also be lost over time without the seller even realising.

Changing your locks removes that uncertainty immediately.

🏡 Bishop’s Stortford Is Desirable — And That Matters

Bishop’s Stortford is a highly desirable commuter town within Hertfordshire, with a mix of period homes, modern developments, and family estates.

Desirable areas can attract opportunistic crime because properties are perceived to contain valuable items.

Upgrading your locks when you move in ensures you start with strong, modern protection — not outdated hardware.

🔐 Your Locks May Be Outdated

Many homes — especially those built in the early 2000s — still have standard euro cylinder locks that may be vulnerable to:

• Lock snapping

• Lock bumping

• Drilling

If the locks haven’t been changed in 8–10 years, they likely do not meet modern anti-snap standards.

Upgrading to:

• Anti-snap cylinders (TS007 3-Star rated)

• British Standard BS3621 mortice locks

• High-security multipoint systems

brings your property in line with current security expectations.

📄 Insurance Requirements

Many UK home insurance policies require:

• British Standard approved locks

• Secure external door mechanisms

If you move into a property with non-compliant locks and fail to upgrade them, you could risk complications when making a claim.

Changing your locks ensures:

• Compliance

• Peace of mind

• Stronger protection

Always check your individual policy wording.

🛠️ Should You Replace or Re-Key?

When moving house, you typically have two options:

1️⃣ Full Lock Replacement

This involves removing the existing lock cylinder or mortice lock and installing a new one.

Best for:

• Upgrading security

• Old or worn locks

• Vulnerable euro cylinders

2️⃣ Re-Keying (Where Applicable)

This changes the internal mechanism so old keys no longer work.

Best for:

• Higher-end locks

• When hardware is modern and secure

A professional locksmith can advise which is best for your property type.

🚪 Don’t Forget Every Entry Point

When moving into a new home, many people only change the front door lock.

But consider:

• Back doors

• Patio or French doors

• Garage entry doors

• Side gates

• Conservatories

• Sheds or outbuildings

Security is only as strong as the weakest entry point.

🔎 Signs Your New Home’s Locks Need Immediate Attention

You should change your locks urgently if:

• Keys are stiff or difficult to turn

• The cylinder protrudes beyond the handle

• There’s no visible security rating

• The door feels misaligned

• You weren’t given a full set of keys

Even minor issues can signal deeper security vulnerabilities.

💷 How Much Does It Cost to Change Locks After Moving?

Costs depend on:

• Number of doors

• Type of locks

• Security rating selected

However, compared to the cost of replacing stolen valuables or repairing forced entry damage, lock replacement is a small investment.

Most homeowners consider it essential moving-in security.

📦 Moving House Security Checklist

When you move into your Bishop’s Stortford home, complete this checklist within the first week:

✔ Change or upgrade all external door locks
✔ Check window locks
✔ Test multipoint locking systems
✔ Install motion-sensor lighting
✔ Consider CCTV or alarm systems
✔ Introduce yourself to neighbours

Starting strong sets the tone for long-term security.

👨‍🔧 Why Use a Professional Locksmith?

Professional installation ensures:

• Correct fitting

• No door damage

• Insurance-compliant hardware

• Smooth lock operation

• Proper alignment of uPVC mechanisms

DIY installation can sometimes lead to misalignment, reduced security, or door damage — particularly with multipoint systems.

Final Thoughts: A Fresh Start Means Fresh Security

Moving house represents a new chapter — and your home’s security should reflect that.

Changing your locks is:

• Simple

• Affordable

• Quick

• One of the most important steps you can take

If you’ve recently moved into a property in Bishop’s Stortford, upgrading your locks ensures only you — and those you trust — have access to your home.

Peace of mind starts at the front door.