Moving House in Coventry: Security Checklist for Your New Home
Getting the keys to a new home is an exciting moment. Whether you're buying your first property, moving to a different part of Coventry or starting a new tenancy, there is usually a long list of things to organise.
One thing that's easy to overlook is security.
This article has been sponsored by VB Locksmith Services, a Coventry-based locksmith and door repair specialist.
Moving House in Coventry: Security Checklist for Your New Home
You may have been handed a complete set of keys, but it is almost impossible to know how many copies have existed in the past. Previous owners, tenants, cleaners, contractors, family members or letting agents may all have had access at some point.
And security isn't only about changing a lock. A door that doesn't align properly, a stiff handle or a window that doesn't lock correctly can all become problems later.
Here are seven practical checks worth making soon after moving into a new home in Coventry.
Moving Home in Coventry? 7 Security Checks to Make After You Get the Keys
1. Consider changing the locks after moving house
Even when previous occupants return all their keys, there is no practical way of knowing whether duplicates were made in the past.
For that reason, changing or re-keying appropriate external locks is one of the simplest ways to regain control over who can enter your property.
This doesn't necessarily mean replacing the entire locking system.
On many uPVC and composite doors, for example, the lock cylinder can be replaced while the existing multipoint mechanism remains in place, provided it is in good working condition.
A professional locksmith, such as VB Locksmith Services, can inspect what you already have before recommending unnecessary replacement work.
2. Inspect every external door - not just the front door
The front door gets most of the attention, but walk around the property and check every possible entrance.
That includes back doors, French doors, patio doors, conservatory doors, side entrances and any door connecting a garage to the house.
Coventry has a wide variety of properties, from older homes with traditional wooden doors and mortice locks to newer properties fitted with uPVC or composite doors and multipoint locking systems.
Whatever type of door you have, it should close smoothly and lock without excessive force.
3. Don't ignore a stiff uPVC or composite door handle
This is one of the most common warning signs homeowners overlook.
If you have to pull the door towards you, push it into the frame or lift the handle unusually hard before the key will turn, something may not be operating correctly.
Sometimes the problem isn't actually the lock.
A door can move slightly over time, causing the locking points to become misaligned with the frame. This places additional pressure on the multipoint mechanism and gearbox every time the door is locked.
Continuing to force the handle can eventually turn a relatively straightforward adjustment into a failed mechanism — and potentially a door that will no longer open.
If your door suddenly becomes noticeably harder to lock, it's worth investigating the cause rather than simply applying more force. A local locksmith and door repair specialist such as VB Locksmith Services can assess whether the problem is with the alignment, mechanism, gearbox or lock itself.
4. Check the condition of the lock cylinders
If your new property has uPVC or composite doors, take a look at the cylinders fitted to them.
Older or basic cylinders may not provide the same level of protection as more modern security products.
When replacing a cylinder, ask about appropriate security-rated options for your particular door rather than assuming that the most expensive lock is automatically necessary.
The important thing is that the lock, cylinder, door and locking mechanism work correctly together.
5. Test your windows as well
Home security doesn't stop at the doors.
Check accessible ground-floor windows and any windows that could potentially be reached from an extension, garage roof or other accessible area.
Make sure each window opens, closes and locks properly.
A window handle that turns without operating the lock, a window that is stuck closed or a mechanism that no longer engages doesn't always mean you need a new window.
In many cases, faulty handles, hinges and internal window mechanisms can be repaired or replaced individually.
6. Don't forget garages, side gates and secondary entrances
Garages and outbuildings often contain bicycles, tools and other valuable equipment, yet their security can be overlooked when people move home.
Check garage locks, side gates, sheds and external storage areas.
If there is a connecting door between an integral garage and the house, include that in your security inspection too.
A home's security is only as effective as its overlooked access points.
7. Deal with small problems before they become emergency call-outs
Locks and door mechanisms often give warning signs before they fail completely.
A key that has started becoming difficult to turn, a loose handle, a door that needs lifting before it locks or a mechanism that feels different from usual should not be ignored.
Early diagnosis can sometimes mean a simple adjustment or replacement of one component.
Waiting until something breaks completely can result in the door becoming jammed shut or unable to lock securely — usually at the least convenient time.
The same principle applies after moving into a property: identifying small problems early can save considerable inconvenience later.
A simple security check can provide peace of mind
Moving house is already expensive, so improving security doesn't mean replacing every lock, door and window unnecessarily.
Start by checking what is already installed, identify anything that is damaged or not operating correctly, and concentrate on genuine weaknesses.
If you're unsure about a lock, uPVC door, composite door or window mechanism in your new property, having it inspected can help you understand whether it needs adjustment, repair or replacement.
Local locksmith and door repairs in Coventry
If you’ve recently moved into a new home and aren’t sure whether your locks, doors or windows are working as they should, VB Locksmith Services can help. The Coventry-based locksmith specialises in locksmith services as well as uPVC and composite door repairs, helping homeowners identify and resolve security and access problems.
Services include:
lock changes and upgrades
lockouts
multipoint locking mechanism and gearbox repairs
door adjustments
lock and cylinder replacements
window lock and mechanism repairs
new lock installations
Rather than automatically replacing an entire door or locking system, VB Locksmith Services aims to identify the underlying problem first. In some cases, a repair, adjustment or replacement of an individual component may be all that's needed.
So, whether you've inherited an old lock when moving house, your new uPVC door has become difficult to lock, or you're dealing with a faulty window mechanism, getting the problem checked can help you understand what needs doing and avoid unnecessary work.
For local locksmith, door and window security services, find out more here: VB Locksmith Services – Locksmith Coventry.
