Locks
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Grip your keys tightly while shutting a self-locking door behind you.
This helps avoid getting locked out and paying for costly locksmith help.
- This works for some but may not work for everyone.
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- Stare at your keys as you close or lock up.1
- Visually confirm your keys are in your hand before closing the door.2
Buy roadside assistance insurance add-on for your car to cover lockout costs.
It prevents paying high fees like $120 to get into your car.
one person who lived it
Re-key Schlage locks yourself by rearranging pins using a pin set and a video guide.
It is described as super easy.
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Choose quality lock brands like Schlage or Baldwin and learn proper installation to prevent popping with a credit card.
Kwikset locks can be broken in three seconds and are easily defeatable.
- Kwikset SmartKey locks wear out much faster.
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Replace all exterior locks right away upon moving into a new residence.
Former residents, neighbors, or workers might retain keys.
- Some landlords deem it unlawful to change locks without requesting permission through property management.
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Change locks if anyone who did not live with you had possession of your keys at any time, as they may copy them without your knowledge.
An ex copied a key without knowing, discovered months later.
one person who lived it
Set all entry locks to use the same key.
It simplifies access so you do not need multiple keys.
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Consider installing a key-code front door lock if you frequently spend money on locksmiths.
It may be worth the cost compared to repeated locksmith fees.
- Decent quality parts can be expensive.
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Replace the short stock screws in your door frame with longer ones.
The stock ones aren't very long.
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Always take your house keys with you, even for short trips like going to the mailbox or car.
A vacuum created by opening an outer door can slam a self-locking inner door shut.
one person who lived it
Install keyless entry systems on front and back doors.
It is life-changing.
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Turn the doorknob while closing the door to verify it is unlocked.
If the knob does not turn, it alerts you that the door is locked.
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If you suspect someone is outside your door, pretend to unlock it by gently wiggling the knob or lock to deter them.
This trick can startle intruders into fleeing.
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Reset garage door opener codes when moving.
Old openers from previous residents may still work on your new garage.
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Identify an unlocked window or side door as a backup entry point if you are locked out.
One person reported climbing through an almost always unlocked window to get in.
- The climb may be difficult or non-ideal, such as being over a sink.
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Place your keys next to your glasses if you wear them daily.
You never go outside without them.
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Pull the door slightly extra after closing it.
Ensures a quiet click rather than a loud thud.
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- Turn the doorknob gently before closing any door.1
Buy a drill when purchasing a lock.
Drills are inexpensive.
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Verify the license plate matches the ride-share app details before entering the vehicle.
Drivers may use different cars than registered, posing a safety risk.
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Re-key existing locks instead of replacing them if the hardware is aesthetically pleasing.
You don't have to spend labor changing them or space storing the old locks.
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Avoid using code-based entry systems if you live in a rural area.
Someone may attempt to guess the code by flipping the cover repeatedly.
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Install proper security locks on interior bedroom doors instead of cheap privacy locks.
Privacy locks are cheaper but easy to force open.
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Swap lock sets between your old and new homes during a move to maintain key compatibility.
- One approach that helped: swap locks if you have days of overlap and move a short distance.
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Note how the door is locked upon returning home to detect unauthorized entry.
A different locking method may indicate someone else has entered.
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