Moving into a new home can be equal parts exciting and worrisome. It takes time to be able to move all your belongings into your new house and make it feel like a home. When you move into a new house, one of the first things you should do is update the locks, and here is why.
Why Should You Change Locks When Moving to a New Place?
When moving into a new home the first thing that many people stress over is getting their belongings where they want them. However, replacing the locks should be the top priority. This is because you have no idea who has a copy of your key. You may get the copies that the owners have on their person, but that does not account for the other copies that some people may have. The entire extended family of the previous owner could have a copy of your key and could have access to your home.
Another reason for changing the locks is that your key may be in the hands of a service provider. While this is not a terrible thing if you are the one that handed over the key, if you are not, however, you may want to change the locks so that you have more control over who can get into your home. Your new home may also be the center of a family dispute. Not all homes are sold simply because the previous family is upgrading or moving to a new place. A homeowner that was forced to sell due to bankruptcy, divorce or foreclosure may still be contentious, and making sure that the former owners cannot come back in is a must.
Now, not all reasons for a lock change have to do with the previous owners. You may be purchasing a home that was broken into at one point or a home where the locks are old and worn out. In these cases, it is beneficial to change the locks as well.
Should You Change All Locks When Buying a House?
Long story short, yes. New locks are going to give you the security of knowing that you are the only person that can get into your home and that you are the only one that has access. It will also allow you the chance to pass out keys, or not, to those you want to have them. It also allows you the chance to get new locks that are going to be secure and that are going to work well.
Changing locks is simple. You can either do it yourself with a kit, or you can hire a contractor to put in new locks throughout your entire home. If you have multiple doors or exterior access, you must change all the locks so that you can feel safe and secure in your new home.
Locks are an essential part of your home’s security. They keep you and your family safe from burglars and intruders. However, locks are not immune to damage. Over time, they can become worn down and eventually stop working as they should. When this happens, you’ll need to determine whether a repair or replacement is the wisest choice. Should I repair my lock or get it replaced? Read on to find out.
When to Repair Your Lock
Lock repair is less costly than replacement. That’s why many homeowners opt for this route when their locks start to malfunction. But just because the repair is less expensive, that doesn’t mean it’s always the best option. There are only certain circumstances in which you should consider repair over replacement. Here are some of them:
Turning the key becomes hard: If you have to put a lot of effort into turning the key, it’s likely that your lock is just dirty. Over time, dust and debris can build up inside the lock, making it difficult to turn. In this case, repair work should do the trick.
The key gets stuck: Nothing can be more frustrating than having your key get stuck in the lock. Sometimes the inside parts of the lock can fail and trap the key inside. A professional locksmith can take the lock apart and fix the problem, so you can get your key back and continue using the lock.
Jammed locking mechanism: Locks are prone to jamming. You put in the key and when you try to open it, nothing happens. Get a locksmith to take a look at your lock and repair any jammed parts.
When to Replace Your Lock
Do locks need to be replaced? Even though this option is more expensive, there are certain instances when it’s the best course of action. Here are some of them:
The lock is old and worn out: If your lock is old, it may be time to replace it. Over time, locks can become worn down and stop working as they should. Rather than risking a break-in, it’s best to replace the lock before it fails completely. If your lock is more than seven years old, it’s probably time for a replacement.
The lock is extensively damaged: As we mentioned, locks are not immune to damage. If your lock has been damaged extensively, it’s best to replace it rather than try to repair it. Extensive damage can weaken the lock, making it more susceptible to break-ins. Even if you repair it, you’ll spend a lot of money.
You’ve had a recent break-in: If your home has been broken into, it’s crucial to replace the locks right away. This is because burglars may come later thinking they can easily get back in. Replacing the locks will give you peace of mind. Consider upgrading to a higher security lock as well.
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand when to repair or replace your lock. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional locksmith. They will assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. Don’t take chances with your home’s security. If your lock is damaged, get it fixed right away.
How do I avoid locksmith scams? How do I recognize locksmith scams? These are some common questions people ask after a locksmith has scammed them. Many people are searching for this information online, indicating that locksmith scams are becoming more and more common. Here are some of the tips on how you can spot and avoid locksmith scams.
1. Check Locksmith Identification
You don’t want to let any random person into your home or office. When you call a locksmith, ensure they can provide you with some form of identification. A legitimate locksmith will have no problem providing you with their license number or another identification form. If the locksmith is hesitant to provide you with their identification, it is best to find someone else.
2. Get an Estimate Before Work Begins
A legitimate locksmith will be more than happy to estimate the work that needs to be done and the cost involved. If the locksmith refuses to give you an estimate or tries to get you to commit to a price before they start working, it is best to find someone else. Getting an estimate before work begins ensures that you will not be surprised by a huge bill at the end.
3. Beware of Unusually Low Prices
If a locksmith quotes you at a price significantly lower than the other locksmiths in the area, then it is best to be wary. This could signify that the locksmith is not legitimate and is trying to scam you. Always go with a locksmith you feel you can trust and who has a good reputation. Some scammers tend to have lower prices, which is a sure way of attracting clients.
4. Check for Reviews
One of the best ways to avoid being scammed by a locksmith is to check for reviews online. There are many sites where you can read reviews from other customers to give you an idea of the quality of work that the locksmith is capable of and whether they are trustworthy. Ensure you get the correct locksmith by checking for reviews, which will help you avoid scams.
5. Beware of Hidden Fees
Some locksmiths will try to charge you hidden fees for their services. Make sure that you are clear on the price before the work begins and that there are no hidden fees. A legitimate locksmith will be upfront and honest about their pricing. Sometimes, the locksmith charges extra for things like after-hours or emergency service.
6. Get Everything in Writing
Once you have found a locksmith you feel you can trust, it is important to get everything in writing. This includes the work’s price, the estimated completion time, and other relevant information to protect you in case there are any misunderstandings down the road. You will not get surprises later if everything is laid out in the contract.
Conclusion
These are just some of the tips on how to spot and avoid locksmith scams. Always remember to be cautious when letting strangers into your home or office. If you are ever in doubt, it is always best to avoid caution and find someone else. A little research can go a long way in avoiding these types of scams. Contact Artie’s Lock and Key if you need qualified locksmith services.
ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. This means that ADA-compliant locks will be easy to open by anyone, including people with disabilities. The Act was established in 1990. All the new buildings and adapted older architecture should be modified to be accessible for wheelchair users and people with disabilities such as visual or hearing impairment. The Act was passed to ensure that people with disabilities can access all public buildings and that employers guarantee that the place of work is accessible to all employees, including the ones with disabilities.
What Is an ADA Compliant Lock?
ADA regulations require that all door levers and locks on commercial buildings like schools, cinemas, and restaurants need to be manufactured in such a way as to make it possible for easy access to all their patrons, including people with disabilities. Visually, the ADA compliant lock should look the same or very close to those that are non-compliant.
There are three non-negotiable features a lock needs to have to be classified as an ADA compliant lock.
You need to be able to operate the lock with only one hand.
You should not need to tightly grasp, pinch or twist your wrist to open the lock.
It should take less than five pounds of force to activate the operable parts of the lock.
Door levers (door handles) must be designed so people with disabilities can easily operate them. Therefore, when choosing door locks, you must confirm that the lever size and the handle’s projection from the door will be accessible to all.
Most of the locks with lever-operated mechanisms, push-type mechanisms, and U-shaped handles are acceptable. Also, locks that can be operated with a closed fist or gripped loosely can be fitted. If the handle and lock you choose require a coordinated movement of hand and fingers to open, it may require too much dexterity for a disabled person to operate; therefore, such lock designs should be avoided.
What Does ADA Compliance Require?
To be ADA compliant, the design of the doors, locks, and door handles should comprise all the above features. Additionally, the mounted operable lock parts need to be between 34 inches and a maximum of 48 inches above the floor level.
Be cautious when fitting devices such as keypads to operate the lock mechanism because these devices require coordinated finger and hand movements. However, the ADA code does not state that this type of lock is not allowed.
The door should open easily and take less than five pounds of continuous force to open it fully, excluding the force necessary to open the lock or retract the bolt.
To sum up, ADA made it compulsory for builders and architects to pay attention to the locks and how they design their buildings’ entrance doors. Ensuring public buildings are accessible to people with disabilities provides a better quality of life for those struggling with normal daily activities.
Are you asking yourself “What are the benefits of an access control system?” Everyone knows that security is extremely important for all-size businesses. It doesn’t matter if you store client information or equipment; it is important to protect the assets of your business. Read on to find out the business of implementing an access control system.
Benefits of Installing Access Control Systems
Are you asking “Is an access control system worth it?” An access control system is a security solution that prevents or permits access to a certain space, building, or location. Here are some of the benefits of using these systems.
Easy Management
One of the biggest aspects of using access control systems is the ability to simplify the management process of dealing with employee credentials, tracking, and entrance security. Implementing such systems allows you to monitor and track all activity from all entry points from one remote location.
Keep Track of Activity
When you have an access control system in place, it is much easier to track the activity of guests, visitors, and even your employees. If your business happens to experience a theft or break-in, you will have the ability to recall who has accessed the building, or location.
Adjust Access Times
With modernized access control systems, you can access certain times for visitors, employees, and entire groups of people. You can set access times for employees during work hours or if you are hosting a long-day gathering, etc.
Make Certain Credentials for Access a Requirement
It is also possible to require certain credentials for access when using your access control system. You can implement badges that indicate certain credentials but also work to keep track of who is given access and to what locations throughout your locations.
Take Away Hassle of Using Traditional Keys
If you notice how much of a hassle it is to keep track of keys, then transitioning to an access control system is a must. Taking the hassle away from using traditional keys is an extremely appealing aspect of implementing access control systems for many businesses, no matter how big or small they are.
Streamlining Exiting and Entering Your Business
An access control system is important if you want to know who is coming and going out of your business on a day-to-day basis. It can help you save time while enabling more focus on what’s more important for the growth of your business.
Minimize Risk and Improve Security
Transitioning to access control systems is a great way to increase security for your business and building. Not only does installing access control systems help to keep better track of who is accessing your business, but it also provides details of who is accessing certain rooms and locations. This gives you a boost in security.
