You got the keys. So did a lot of other people.
Closing day ends with a set of keys and a handshake. What it doesn't come with is a list of everyone else who has a copy.
The previous owners may have handed spares to neighbors, a dog walker, a cleaner or their adult kids. Contractors, inspectors and real estate agents have likely let themselves in too. And if you bought a new build, the builder may have used the same key for several houses on your street.
You'll never know for sure who still has a key. That's why changing the locks is the first job security experts recommend after you move in, before the furniture, the paint or the Wi-Fi.
Who might still have a key to your home
Most of these people are trustworthy. The problem is that you can't confirm any of it.
| Who | How they got a key |
|---|---|
| Previous owners or tenants | Spares they forgot to hand over, or copies they never knew they made |
| Neighbors, friends and family | Emergency spares, kept "just in case" |
| Cleaners, dog walkers, house sitters | Given a key for regular visits, never asked to return it |
| Contractors and handymen | Lent a key for a repair or a move-out job |
| Real estate agents and inspectors | Lockbox access during the sale |
| Builders and subcontractors | New builds are often master-keyed during construction, sometimes across several homes |
Even a seller who says the locks are new can't promise there are no copies, because you weren't there when the keys were cut. (Angi)
Your three options: rekey, replace or go keyless
Rekeying is the cheapest fix today, but it solves the problem only once. A smart lock solves it every time after.
| Option | What it does | Typical cost | The catch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rekey | A locksmith re-pins your existing cylinders so old keys stop working | $80–$150 with a locksmith; $10–$25 for a DIY kit | You're back to metal keys, and you'll pay again the next time one goes missing |
| Replace with standard locks | New hardware and new keys on each door | $50–$200 with a locksmith, labor and basic hardware | Same keys-and-copies problem, just with new keys |
| Replace with a smart lock | New hardware you control from your phone, with keyless entry | The cost of the lock; most install with a screwdriver | Needs batteries, and you need the right lock for your door type |
Cost ranges are national estimates from Angi; your locksmith's quote will vary by area and number of doors.
Why a smart lock fixes the problem for good
With a smart lock, "who has a key" stops being a mystery. You decide, and you can change it in seconds.
- Every person gets their own way in. Family use their fingerprint or a code. The cleaner gets a separate code. Nobody needs a copy of your key.
- Remove access in seconds. Dog walker finished? Contractor done? Delete their code in the TTLock app. No locksmith, no new keys.
- See who came and went. The app keeps an entry history, so you know when someone used their code.
- Temporary access for one-off visits. Give a contractor or house sitter a code that only works for the days they need it.
- No more hidden spare under the mat. You can't lose a fingerprint, and you can't copy one at the hardware store.
Every Prodillo lock also ships with backup mechanical keys, so you're never locked out. Want to unlock the door while you're away from home? Most Prodillo locks connect by Bluetooth, and adding the Prodillo WiFi Gateway gives you full remote control.
Which Prodillo lock fits your new door
The right lock depends on what's already in your door, so check that first. A round deadbolt above a separate knob or handle needs a different lock from a tall, narrow plate with the handle and keyhole built in (a mortise lock). Our guide to deadbolt vs mortise locks shows you how to tell.
| Your door | Look at |
|---|---|
| Front door with a mortise lock | Prodillo G2, our best seller: fingerprint, code, app, card and key |
| Glass sliding or slim-framed door | MS01, built for narrow frames (smart locks for sliding doors) |
| Standard deadbolt door | V Series keypad deadbolt |
| Hands-free entry with Wi-Fi built in | Z10 facial recognition lock |
Not sure what you have? Find Your Fit walks you through it in a few minutes. For mortise doors, measure your lock before you order.
Your first-week security checklist
The locks come first, but they're not the only thing the last owners left set up.
- Change or upgrade the locks on every exterior door, including back, side and patio doors
- Reset the garage door opener code and remotes
- Change the codes on any existing keypads, alarms or gate entries
- Reset the Wi-Fi router and any smart home devices left behind
- Check window locks, especially on the ground floor
- Find any hidden spare keys outside (under mats, rocks and planters)
- Set up access for your household, then add anyone else only when they need it
FAQ
Should I change the locks on a new house even if the sellers said they gave me every key?
Yes. They may not know about copies given to cleaners, contractors or neighbors years ago. Changing the locks is the only way to be sure.
Is rekeying or replacing cheaper?
Rekeying is usually cheaper upfront, at around $80–$150 with a locksmith. But you pay again every time a key goes missing or someone moves out. A smart lock costs more once, then removing access is free.
When should I change the locks after moving in?
As soon as you get the keys, ideally on day one or before you move your belongings in.
Can I install a smart lock myself?
Yes. Most Prodillo locks install with a screwdriver in under an hour. Our installation guide walks you through every step.
What happens if the batteries die?
You'll get low-battery warnings well before then. If they do run out, you can power the lock from a USB power bank or use your backup key.
Do I need a subscription?
No. The TTLock app is free, with no subscription for codes, fingerprints or entry history.
Start your new home with keys only you control
A new home should feel like yours from the first night. Change the locks once, and never wonder who else has a key again.
