How Often Should You Change Your Locks?

changing a lock on a home in Kew

Locks are one of the most important parts of your home or business security. They work quietly in the background every day, until something goes wrong.

A common question we hear from Melbourne homeowners and business operators is: How often should I actually change my locks?
The answer depends on your circumstances, the locks’ wear, and your security risks.

Here’s what you should know.

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

Quality door locks do not come with a strict “use by” date. A well-installed lock can last anywhere from 7 to 20 years, depending on usage, weather exposure, and build quality.

In Melbourne, external locks tend to wear faster due to temperature changes, moisture, and daily use. Front doors, garage entries, and commercial access points often show signs of fatigue earlier than internal locks.

That said, a lock may still physically function long after it stops meeting modern security standards. Security technology evolves, and older locks may lack anti-pick, anti-bump, or reinforced strike features found in newer hardware.

If you are unsure whether your lock is outdated, this guide may help:
👉 https://viclocks.com.au/when-to-change-or-rekey-locks/

Life Events That Should Trigger a Lock Change

More important than age are life events that affect who has access to your property.

  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.
In these cases, waiting increases risk.

Signs Your Locks May Be Reaching the End

Sometimes the decision is not caused by a major event but by gradual wear.

If your key:
  • sticks,
  • requires force to turn,
  • or the lock feels loose or misaligned,
the mechanism may be deteriorating. Rust, corrosion, or visible damage are also indicators.
While maintenance can extend lifespan, persistent issues often signal that replacement or rekeying is the safer option.

Rekeying vs Replacing: How Often Is Each Needed?

Rekeying is typically recommended whenever access changes. It is a cost-effective way to ensure old keys no longer work without replacing the entire lock hardware.

Full replacement, on the other hand, is usually necessary when:
  • The lock is physically damaged
  • The model is outdated
  • You are upgrading security (for example, installing a deadbolt or smart lock)
If your locks are in good condition but access has changed, rekeying is often sufficient.

If you are unsure which applies to your situation, this article breaks it down clearly:
👉 https://viclocks.com.au/rekey-replace-locks-after-moving-house/

What About Businesses?

Commercial properties generally require more frequent review. With higher staff turnover, multiple access points, and compliance obligations, businesses may rekey annually or after any staffing change involving keyholders.
Restricted key systems can simplify this process by maintaining tighter control over duplication.

A Practical Rule of Thumb

Rather than thinking in strict years, consider this:
If access has changed, keys are unaccounted for, or your lock feels unreliable, it is time to act.

If none of those applies and the lock is functioning smoothly, an inspection by a professional locksmith can confirm whether it remains secure by today’s standards.
There is no universal timeline for changing locks, but there are clear moments when updating them is the safest decision.

If you have moved house, lost keys, experienced a break-in, or simply want peace of mind, VicLocks can assess your current setup and recommend whether rekeying or replacement is appropriate.

We assist homeowners and businesses across Kew and greater Melbourne with practical, straightforward security advice.

📞 Contact VicLocks today to schedule a lock assessment and ensure your property remains secure.