Top 10 Signs You Need to Replace Your Door Locks

our door locks are the first line of defense between your home or business and the outside world. But like any mechanical device, locks can wear out, become outdated, or simply stop working efficiently. Knowing when to replace your door locks isn’t just a matter of convenience—it’s crucial for your safety and peace of mind.

In this article, we’ll break down the top 10 signs you need to replace your door locks—whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or property manager.

1. You’ve Recently Moved Into a New Home

Why it matters:
You never know how many copies of your keys are out there—or who has them.

Solution:
Always replace or rekey the locks immediately after moving into a new property to ensure you are the only one with access.

2. Your Lock Is Hard to Turn or Jammed

Why it matters:
A sticky or hard-to-turn lock isn’t just frustrating—it’s a sign of internal wear or mechanical failure.

Solution:
If lubricating the lock doesn’t help, it’s time to replace it before it fails completely and locks you out—or in.

3. You’ve Experienced a Break-In or Attempted Burglary

Why it matters:
Even if the lock wasn’t physically damaged, its integrity may be compromised.

Solution:
Upgrade to a high-security lock or smart lock to regain control over your home’s security.

4. Locks Are Rusty or Visibly Damaged

Why it matters:
Rust weakens the internal components and can lead to a total failure, especially during extreme weather.

Solution:
Replace rusted locks with weather-resistant models, particularly for exterior doors.

5. You’ve Lost Your Keys (or They’re Stolen)

Why it matters:
If someone finds or steals your keys, they could access your home or office.

Solution:
Don’t risk it—replace or rekey the locks immediately to maintain control over access.

6. Your Lock Is Outdated or Basic

Why it matters:
Old, traditional locks may be vulnerable to modern break-in techniques like lock bumping or picking.

Solution:
Upgrade to high-security deadbolts or smart locks with encrypted keypads or biometric access.

7. You’re Renting to New Tenants

Why it matters:
If you’re a landlord or property manager, you’re legally and ethically responsible for tenant safety.

Solution:
Rekey or replace the locks between tenants to ensure no unauthorized access by previous renters.

8. You Want More Control Over Who Comes and Goes

Why it matters:
Increased control means increased security—especially for households with frequent visitors or service providers.

Solution:
Consider replacing traditional locks with smart locks, which allow keyless entry and remote access control via smartphone apps.

9. The Lock Doesn’t Match the Door or Frame

Why it matters:
Improper fit can compromise both security and function. Misaligned locks wear faster and are easier to break.

Solution:
Choose a lock that fits your door’s thickness and material, and install it correctly to ensure durability and protection.

10. It’s Just Time—Locks Don’t Last Forever

Why it matters:
Locks endure wear and tear over time. Even the best-quality locks have a limited lifespan, especially with frequent use.

Solution:
If your lock is more than 7–10 years old, consider replacing it proactively before issues arise.

Why This Is a Risk

Even if the property is brand new or the previous owner seemed trustworthy, you can’t be sure who still has a copy of the keys. Real estate agents, former tenants, contractors, cleaners, or family members of the seller could all potentially have access.

What To Do

Replace or rekey all exterior locks the day you move in. This ensures you start with a clean slate of security and know exactly who has keys.

Pro Tip from Integrum

Consider installing keyless entry systems or smart locks to eliminate the need for physical keys altogether.

2. Your Lock Is Hard to Turn, Sticking, or Jamming

Why This Is a Problem

A lock that sticks or doesn’t turn smoothly is more than an inconvenience—it’s a sign of internal wear, corrosion, or misalignment. Eventually, the lock could fail completely, leaving you locked out or compromising your security.

What To Do

Try using a lubricant like graphite or silicone spray. If the issue persists, the internal mechanism may be worn out and a full replacement is safer.

3. You’ve Experienced a Break-In or Attempted Burglary

What Could Go Wrong

Even if the intruder didn’t get in, the mere attempt could have weakened the lock or door frame. Criminals often return if they suspect your security hasn’t been upgraded.

What To Do

Call a locksmith immediately. Have your locks inspected and replaced with high-security models or smart locks that offer better resistance to picking, bumping, and forced entry.

Recommended by Integrum

We often suggest Mul-T-Lock®, Medeco®, or Schlage Primus for clients wanting advanced protection.

4. The Lock Is Rusty, Corroded, or Visibly Damaged

Why This Happens

Exposure to rain, snow, humidity, or salt (especially in coastal or cold climates like Ontario) can cause metal locks to rust. Rust leads to internal binding and eventual failure.

What To Do

Replace corroded locks as soon as rust is visible, especially on exterior doors, garages, or commercial entryways.

Weather-Resistant Locks

Opt for stainless steel or brass locks with weather-sealing for long-lasting durability.

5. You’ve Lost Your Keys or Had Them Stolen

Why It’s Urgent

Even if you don’t think someone will find your home from the keys, it’s not worth the risk. Your keys could fall into the wrong hands—especially if lost alongside an ID or address.

What To Do

If there’s even a chance that your keys are stolen or unaccounted for, have your locks rekeyed or replaced immediately.

Fast Solutions by Integrum

Our mobile locksmiths can come to your location 24/7 and rekey or replace locks on-site within minutes.

6. Your Lock Technology Is Outdated

What This Means

Many older locks, especially ones installed over 10 years ago, lack modern security features. These include anti-pick pins, drill-resistant housings, and bump-proof mechanisms.

What To Do

Replace outdated locks with modern high-security deadbolts, or take it a step further with smart home integration.

Tech You Can Trust

Smart locks from brands like August, Yale, and Schlage Encode allow remote control, keyless access, and real-time activity logs for complete peace of mind.

7. You’re Changing Tenants in a Rental Property

Legal + Safety Reasons

In many areas, landlords are legally required to rekey locks between tenants. Even if not mandated by law, it’s a crucial step to protect your new renters and yourself from liability.

What To Do

Call a professional locksmith to either rekey or replace the locks before handing over keys to a new tenant.

Property Management Partner

Integrum Locksmith & Doors works with landlords, Airbnb hosts, and commercial property managers across the GTA to ensure quick lock changes with no hassle.

8. You Want More Control Over Who Has Access

A Smarter Way to Secure Your Space

Traditional keys can be copied without your knowledge. If you have cleaning staff, dog walkers, babysitters, or frequent visitors, you need a more secure and flexible way to manage access.

What To Do

Install a smart lock with programmable keycodes, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi access, and changeable permissions.

Integrum’s Smart Lock Installation

We install top-rated smart locks with full setup and training. Control your locks remotely and get notifications when someone unlocks your door.

9. The Lock Doesn’t Fit the Door or Is Misaligned

Why This Is Dangerous

Locks must be properly aligned with the strike plate to function correctly. Misalignment puts stress on internal parts and makes the lock easier to break during a forced entry.

What To Do

If your lock or deadbolt feels off-center, call a locksmith to inspect. A simple reinstallation might work—but often, replacing the lock is the safest choice.

10. Your Locks Are Over 7–10 Years Old

Everything Wears Out Eventually

Locks have a finite lifespan. Even if they look fine, internal components degrade with use, weather exposure, and time. The older the lock, the easier it is to bypass.

What To Do

If it’s been a decade since your locks were installed—or you can’t remember when—schedule a professional security assessment.

Why Choose Integrum Locksmith & Doors?

Trusted. Local. 24/7.

At Integrum Locksmith & Doors, we combine fast response, expert service, and cutting-edge security products to protect what matters most.

Our Services Include:

• Lock Replacement & Installation

• Emergency Lockouts (24/7)

• Smart Lock & Keypad Systems

• High-Security Deadbolt Installation

• Door Repairs & Reinforcements

• Commercial & Residential Security Upgrades

• Keyless Entry Solutions

Emergency? We’re On Call 24/7.

Locked out? Dealing with a break-in? Need immediate lock changes? Our mobile locksmith team is ready to respond fast anywhere in Toronto & the GTA.

Call Now: (844) 228-4012
Website: www.integrum-locksmith-doors.ca
Proudly Serving: Toronto, North York, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Scarborough, and surrounding areas.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

A faulty lock is more than an inconvenience—it’s a vulnerability. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t delay. Your safety, your family’s security, and your peace of mind are too important to risk.

Ready to Replace Your Locks?

Book a free consultation or request emergency service now.
Let Integrum Locksmith & Doors secure your property with trusted, professional solutions that last.

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