When you move into a new home, the locks are easy to overlook amid the cleaning, the furniture and the endless boxes. But they are one of the first things worth prioritising, because you can never be sure how many copies of the keys are still out there with previous owners, tenants, tradespeople or agents.

This guide explains whether to rekey or replace your locks, the difference between the two, and how to make the right call to keep your Melbourne property secure from day one. It applies most directly to homeowners, and we cover where renters and apartment owners stand further down.

What’s the difference between rekeying and replacing locks?

After moving in, you generally have two ways to secure your doors: rekey the existing locks, or replace them entirely. Both stop the old keys from working, but they differ in process, cost and when each makes sense.

When should you rekey your locks?

Rekeying keeps your existing lock hardware in place but changes the internal configuration so a new key is required. A locksmith adjusts the pins inside the cylinder to match a different key, rendering all previous keys useless.

It is a great option when:

• Your locks are still in good condition and working well.
• You want to improve security without paying to replace the hardware.
• You want a budget-friendly solution, since rekeying is generally cheaper than replacement.

Rekeying is a common choice for Melbourne homeowners who just want a fresh, secure start without unnecessary upgrades.

When should you replace your locks?

Replacing means removing the entire lock and installing a new one, whether that is a like-for-like model or an upgraded system.

Replacement is the better call when:

• The current lock is damaged, worn or outdated.
• You want a more secure or more modern lock, such as a higher-security deadbolt or a smart lock.
• You are changing the style or finish to suit the look of your home.

If a lock is stiff or failing rather than simply insecure, it is worth knowing the wider signs it is time to act:

👉 When to Change or Rekey Your Locks

What does Victorian law say about changing locks?

If you plan to change the locks after moving in, it helps to know what is allowed, especially if you are renting or living in a strata-managed property. In Victoria, the rules depend on whether you own the property or lease it.

For renters

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic), and as explained by Consumer Affairs Victoria:

• A renter must not change or add locks without the rental provider’s consent, and equally the rental provider cannot change them without the renter’s consent.
• That consent cannot be unreasonably refused. If a renter believes it has been, they can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
• Whenever a lock is changed, a key must be given to the other party as soon as possible.
• Rental providers must provide a free set of keys, and can only charge a reasonable fee for extra or replacement keys.

If you are renting and want to rekey or replace a lock, the safest path is to submit a written request and wait for approval.

Family violence: Victorian rental law includes specific protections that can allow a person affected by family violence to change the locks, and these rules work differently from the general ones above. Because the details matter and getting them right is important for your safety, we have not tried to summarise them here. Consumer Affairs Victoria has a dedicated page on changing the locks because of family violence, and Tenants Victoria offers free advice and support.

For homeowners

If you own the property, you are fully within your rights to rekey or replace the locks, and it is strongly recommended as part of your move-in checklist. No permission is required, and you can choose any lock type or system that suits your needs.

For apartment or strata residents

If you have moved into an apartment or flat, the rules differ, and you most likely need to seek approval before changing any locks so as not to interfere with a master key system. We have a separate guide on the rules and recommendations for apartments:

👉 I Live in an Apartment on a Master System, Can I Change My Locks?

How much does it cost to rekey or replace locks in Melbourne?

The typical cost for a locksmith to attend a property is around $130 to $165, which sits within standard Melbourne locksmith charges. From there, rekeying usually runs about $70 to $130 per lock, and a lock replacement around $70 to $200 per lock plus the cost of the new hardware, so rekeying is generally the more cost-effective option for a straightforward move-in.

For a full breakdown of what to expect, including call-out fees:

👉 How Much Does a Locksmith Cost in Melbourne?
👉 How Long Does a Locksmith Take?

Securing your new home in Kew and greater Melbourne

Moving into a new home is one of the best times to take control of your security, and rekeying or replacing your locks is one of the simplest ways to do it. It removes the uncertainty of who still holds a key, and gives you genuine peace of mind from the first night.

VicLocks helps homeowners, renters and property managers across Kew and greater Melbourne make the right call, whether that is rekeying existing locks or upgrading to a new system:

👉 Residential Security Services
👉 Emergency Locksmith in Kew

Contact VicLocks today or call 0418 397 297 to secure your new home with confidence.

This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Rental laws change and apply differently depending on your circumstances. For your situation, check Consumer Affairs Victoria or seek advice from a service such as Tenants Victoria.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post Do I Need to Rekey or Replace My Locks After Moving House? appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

As professional locksmiths in Melbourne, we are sometimes asked whether it is legal to own lock picks, what happens if someone is caught with them, and whether you need to be licensed to buy or carry them. Here is a plain-English guide to where the law stands, and how it separates a professional from someone with unlawful intent.

Is lock picking illegal in Victoria?

No, the act of picking a lock is not in itself illegal in Victoria. What can be illegal is possessing or using lock-picking tools without a lawful reason.

In practice, that means:

• If you are a professional locksmith, an apprentice in training, or otherwise using the tools as part of a legitimate trade, you have a lawful reason to have and use them.
• If you have no legitimate reason for carrying those tools, particularly in public, you risk being charged with possessing an implement of housebreaking, which is a criminal offence.

The difference, as you will see, comes down to intent and lawful excuse rather than the tools themselves.

Is it legal to pick a lock if I’m locked out of my own house?

Yes. You are legally allowed to pick a lock on your own property. It is yours, and you have the authority to get into it.

The practical catch is that picking your own lock can cause damage, or draw the attention of a neighbour or passer-by who does not know it is your home, which may mean a conversation with police. In most cases it is safer, faster and cheaper to call a professional locksmith, who can usually open the door without any damage at all:

👉 How Locksmiths Open Locks Without Damaging Them
👉 What Happens When a Locksmith Can’t Open Your Lock?

What does the law actually say?

The relevant law is section 49D of the Summary Offences Act 1966 (Vic), which makes it an offence to have an “implement of housebreaking” in your custody or possession without a lawful excuse. Lock picks can fall within that description depending on the circumstances. The maximum penalty is 2 years imprisonment.

Two points matter most here:

• Intent and context are central. The law is aimed at people equipped to break in, not at the tools existing.
• The burden is on the individual to prove a lawful excuse. If you are found with picks and cannot show a legitimate reason, you are the one who has to account for them.

Lock picking law at a glance

Who can legally use lock picks in Victoria?

Those who typically have a lawful reason to hold and use lock-picking tools include:

• Qualified and professional locksmiths.
• Apprentices completing formal training, such as a Certificate III in Locksmithing.
• Security technicians and authorised service agents.

If you fall outside those categories and are found with picks, rakes, tension wrenches or bump keys with no lawful excuse, you may be on the wrong side of the law. It is also worth understanding how the licensing and qualification landscape works for locksmiths in Victoria, which has changed in recent years:

👉 Are All Locksmiths Licensed in Victoria?

Are lock-picking laws the same in every state?

No. The general principle that intent plus possession can amount to an offence is consistent across Australia, but the exact wording, the relevant Act and the penalties vary from state to state. If you are outside Victoria, check your own state’s legislation rather than assuming the rules match.

Is it legal to buy lock-picking tools online?

Yes, you can generally buy lock-picking tools online legally. But ownership does not equal permission to use them anywhere. Online sellers are unlikely to ask for your credentials, particularly on large marketplaces, so being able to buy a set easily does not mean carrying it around is lawful.

Owning a set at home out of curiosity is unlikely to cause trouble. Carrying it in your car, bag or pocket without a valid reason is where the legal risk lies.

A word on lock picking as a hobby

There is a small community of enthusiasts in Australia who treat lock picking as a sport or a mental puzzle, practised on locks they own. Practising on your own locks in private is not, in itself, illegal, but hobbyists should be careful to:

• Never carry their tools outside the home.
• Never attempt locks they do not own.
• Stay aware that possession in public can be interpreted as intent, which is exactly what section 49D turns on.

Final word from a professional Melbourne locksmith

As professional locksmiths, we use lock-picking techniques every day, but only ever in authorised, lawful situations: letting someone back into their own home, rekeying after a break-in, or helping a property manager who has the authority to request it. We have the training, the insurance and the authorisation to do it safely and without legal consequences.

If you are locked out or need help with a lock, the simplest and safest option is to leave it to a professional. VicLocks works across Kew and greater Melbourne, lawfully and without the guesswork:

👉 Emergency Locksmith in Kew
👉 Residential Security Services

Contact VicLocks today or call 0418 397 297 for trusted, legal and fast assistance.

This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change and can be applied differently depending on the circumstances. For guidance on your own situation, check the current legislation or speak to a qualified lawyer.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post Lock Picking Laws in Melbourne appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

The Minimum Lock Requirements for Victorian Rental Properties

The Most Common Locks Found in Rental Properties

Across Melbourne, a few lock types appear far more frequently than others in rental homes.

Deadlocks on External Doors

Knob and Lever Locks

Many rental properties also use key-in-knob or key-in-lever locks. These locks are built directly into the door handle and are commonly found on both interior and exterior doors.

While they are convenient and inexpensive, they are typically less secure than a deadbolt. For that reason, they are often paired with an additional deadlock on the same door.

Window Locks, Garage Door Locks and Sliding Door Locks

Can Tenants Change the Locks in a Rental Property?

• lost keys
• previous tenants retaining access
• safety concerns

The post What Kind of Locks Are Used in Australian Rental Properties? appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

There’s No Fixed Expiry Date, But There Is a Lifespan

Life Events That Should Trigger a Lock Change

1. If you have moved into a new home in Melbourne, changing or rekeying the locks should be one of the first things you do. You cannot know how many copies of the previous keys are still in circulation.
2. Similarly, if a tenant has moved out, a staff member has left a business, or keys have been lost or stolen, access control has been compromised. Even if you trust the former key holder, there is no way to account for duplicate copies.
3. Break-ins or attempted break-ins are another clear trigger. Even if the lock appears intact, internal damage or weakened hardware can reduce its reliability.

Signs Your Locks May Be Reaching the End

• sticks,
• requires force to turn,
• or the lock feels loose or misaligned,

Rekeying vs Replacing: How Often Is Each Needed?

• The lock is physically damaged
• The model is outdated
• You are upgrading security (for example, installing a deadbolt or smart lock)

What About Businesses?

A Practical Rule of Thumb

The post How Often Should You Change Your Locks? appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

The post Can You Rekey a Smart Lock? What Melbourne Homeowners Should Know appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

Not all locks offer the same level of protection. Many Melbourne homes still rely on basic door handle locks, while others have upgraded to deadbolts or more advanced systems.

A common question homeowners ask is whether a standard lock is enough or if a deadbolt is worth the upgrade.

The answer depends on how the lock works, where it is used, and the level of security you want.

We’re a professional locksmith based in Melbourne, and with our years of experience, we’ll offer our advice.

Let’s start with the basics…

How Each Lock Mechanism Works

Standard locks, often built into door handles, use a spring-loaded latch. When you turn the handle, the latch retracts, allowing the door to open. When released, it snaps back into place.

While convenient, this design relies on spring tension, which makes it easier to force open under pressure.

Deadbolts operate differently. Instead of a spring, they use a solid metal bolt that extends deep into the door frame when locked. This bolt must be manually turned using a key or thumb turn, making it far more resistant to force.

Because of this fundamental difference, deadbolts are generally considered the more secure option for external doors.

Strength and Resistance to Forced Entry

The biggest advantage of a deadbolt is its resistance to physical force. Because the bolt is solid and not spring-loaded, it cannot be easily pushed back or slipped open.

Standard locks, on the other hand, are more vulnerable to techniques such as “loiding,” where a thin object is used to push the latch back. They are also more susceptible to damage if pressure is applied to the door.

If you want to understand when your locks may no longer be providing adequate protection, this guide explains the signs.
👉 When to Change or Rekey Locks

Cost Differences Between Deadbolts and Standard Locks

Standard locks are generally less expensive because they are simple and often included with the door hardware.

Deadbolts tend to cost more upfront, both for the hardware and installation. However, they offer a higher level of security, reducing the likelihood of forced entry.

In many cases, the cost difference is relatively small compared to the potential cost of a break-in. For that reason, many homeowners choose to install both, using a standard lock for convenience and a deadbolt for security.

Best Use Cases for Each Lock Type

Deadbolts are best suited for external doors, including front, back, and garage entry points. They provide the primary line of defence against unauthorised access.

Standard locks are more appropriate for internal doors, where convenience is more important than high security. They can also be used on external doors when paired with a deadbolt.

In practice, most secure homes use a combination of both rather than relying on a single locking mechanism.

Pros and Cons of Deadbolts and Standard Locks

Deadbolts offer stronger protection and are more resistant to forced entry, but they require manual operation and can cost slightly more to install.

Standard locks are simple and convenient to use, but they offer lower security when used on their own.

The right choice depends on where the lock is being installed and the level of protection needed.

Choosing between a deadbolt and a standard lock is not about selecting one over the other. It is about using the right combination.

For most homes, especially in Melbourne, a deadbolt should be considered the minimum standard for external doors, while standard locks can continue to serve as secondary or internal locks.

If your current setup relies only on a basic latch lock, upgrading to a deadbolt can significantly improve your home’s security.

Deadbolts and standard locks serve different purposes, but when it comes to security, deadbolts provide a clear advantage for external doors.

Standard locks are convenient, but they should not be relied on as the primary line of defence.

If you are unsure whether your current locks provide sufficient protection, VicLocks can assess your setup and recommend practical upgrades tailored to your property.

We work with homeowners across Kew and greater Melbourne, providing lock installations, upgrades, and security advice.

📞 Contact VicLocks today to discuss your home security and find the right locking solution for your needs.

The post Deadbolts vs Standard Locks: Which Offers Better Security? appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

Signs a Lock Is Failing

Best Lubricants to Use (and What to Avoid)

How Often Should You Check Your Locks?

When to Call a Locksmith

• If your key breaks off in the lock,
• if the mechanism is jammed,
• or if your door no longer closes properly,

Final Word from Your Local Melbourne Locksmith

The post How to Maintain Your Door Locks and Prevent Failures appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

We locksmiths play a crucial role in keeping homes and businesses safe. But we’re painfully aware that, despite how essential we are, the locksmith industry is surrounded by myths that don’t quite get it right.

As professional locksmiths servicing Kew and its surrounding suburbs, we are here to clear the air. Whether you’re locked out, upgrading to smart locks, or securing a new home, here are 10 common locksmith myths and the facts that really matter.

1. All Locksmiths Charge a Fortune

2. WD-40 is Fine for Locks

In Australia, WD-40 is a household name, but it’s not designed for lock maintenance.

It leaves a residue that can attract dirt and dust, creating more problems over time.

Use a graphite-based or Teflon dry lubricant explicitly made for locks.

3. Smart Locks Don’t Require Professionals

DIY installation of smart locks is possible, but not recommended.

Poorly installed digital locks can leave your property vulnerable. Professional locksmiths ensure your smart locks are installed correctly, securely, and in line with Australian standards.

4. Any Key Can Be Duplicated Anywhere

5. Locksmiths Can Open Any Lock Instantly

TV and movies make it look easy, but in reality, opening a lock takes time, skill, and the right tools, especially if the lock is high security or electronic. Ethical locksmiths also verify ownership before proceeding.

6. Rekeying is Just as Expensive as Replacing Locks

7. You Don’t Need to Change Locks After Moving

8. All Locksmiths Are the Same

Unfortunately, not all locksmiths in Australia are fully trained or certified. Look for professionals accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA), who follow ethical guidelines and hold insurance.

9. Locksmiths Only Help with Lockouts

Residential, commercial, automotive, restricted systems, safes, digital locks; locksmiths do far more than get you back into your house. From installing smart access systems to setting up restricted keys, we’re your security partner.

10. Locksmiths Aren’t Necessary with Smart Homes

As homes get smarter, the role of locksmiths is evolving, not disappearing. Today’s locksmiths install and troubleshoot Wi-Fi locks, fingerprint readers, keypad systems, and integrated access setups.

➡️ Related: Is the Locksmith Trade Dying?

Don’t Let Misinformation Jeopardise Your Security

The post 10 Common Locksmith Myths appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

Should You Change the Locks After Moving?

What’s the Difference Between Changing and Rekeying Locks?

What to Ask Your Kew Real Estate Agent or Landlord

• When were the locks last changed or rekeyed?
• Who currently has access (previous tenants, agents, trades)?
• Can you change the locks or rekey them with approval?

Strata & Apartment Living: What You Need to Know

• You cannot change or replace your locks without strata approval
• Most doors are connected to a building-wide restricted system
• Tampering with locks may breach your lease or owner agreement

Break in Stats for Kew

Kew had an annual break‑in (burglary) rate of 822 per 100,000 residents in the 2022‑24 period.

This rate is 14% higher than the Victoria average of 721 per 100,000.  Source

The Benefit of a Local Locksmith in Kew

• Deadbolt and smart lock installation
• Master key system advice
• Mailbox and garage lock replacements
• Key duplication and spare sets for the family

Moving to Kew? Book a Locksmith You Can Trust

The post Moving to Kew? Here’s What You Should Know About Changing Locks appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.

A home break-in is harrowing, stressful, awful, and it can leave you feeling vulnerable and unsure what to do next.

Whether you live in Kew or another suburb around Melbourne, you need to act quickly to secure your home and restore peace of mind.

In this guide, we cover the practical steps you should take after a burglary, including security improvements, insurance, and locksmith tips to prevent it from happening again.

Step 1 – Secure Your Property Immediately

Once you have contact the police and they’ve attended the scene, your next priority is to secure any broken doors, windows, or entry points. This prevents further risk and makes your home insurable.

If your lock has been damaged or bypassed, call a local locksmith to re-secure your door immediately, which leads us to step 2…

Step 2 – Contact a Licensed Locksmith

A professional locksmith can assess how the intruder gained access and recommend immediate security upgrades. In many cases, it may be appropriate to change or rekey your locks, especially if keys were stolen. If you’re unsure about the safety of your current key system, this is the time to upgrade.

Step 3 – Document Everything for Insurance

• Police report number
• Evidence of forced entry or stolen keys
• Itemised list of losses and damage
  – Some insurers may not cover claims if there’s no sign of forced entry. We recommend reviewing your policy’s conditions or contacting your insurer directly.

Step 4 – Assess and Upgrade Security

• Were all entry points protected?
• Was there a weak spot (e.g., an old lock, spare key left outside)?
• Is your current key system outdated?

Step 5 – Make Preventative Changes

• Upgrade to deadbolts or smart locks
• Add motion-sensor lights
• Install cameras or visible deterrents
• Remove spare keys hidden outside

The post What To Do After a Break-In: Locksmith Advice for Kew Homeowners appeared first on Vic-Locks Security.