However, when it comes to certain elements of security, owners may have questions. One of those is how often they should rekey their business. That’s the topic of today’s post.

Understanding Rekeying

Wait, rekeying? Is that even important? Before we get into the ideal frequency, you should first be aware of what rekeying entails. Basically, it involves the altering of internal components of a lock so that it can only be operated by a new key. This is different from replacing the entire lock mechanism and allows you to maintain existing hardware while upping your security level. 

Factors Influencing Rekeying Frequency

Each business situation is different, with factors like location and employee turnover having a big impact on the ideal rekeying frequency. Here are a few of the most common factors that you should consider when it comes to rekeying frequency:

• Employee turnover: does your business have an unusually high turnover rate? Many fast-food restaurants and retail establishments fall into this category. If employees come and go frequently at your business, you need to maintain control over who has access to your premises. Rekeying after a certain number of employees have moved on will ensure they can’t gain unauthorized entry to their former place of employment.
• Lost or stolen keys: if an employee loses their key or if a key is stolen, this is another time when it’s ideal to rekey, as it poses a significant security risk. Even if the key is recovered, there’s no way to guarantee that it hasn’t been duplicated during the time it was missing. 
• Security breaches: having a location in an area of town with higher crime rates is another reason to rekey more consistently. This is especially true if your business has had security breaches in the past. It’s important to reassess your security measures regularly and rekey often in these cases.
• Routine maintenance: you might also notice the need for rekeying during regular maintenance inspections. Even if you don’t have high employee turnover, lost keys or security breaches, there should still be a consistent schedule for rekeying.

Recommended Rekeying Schedule

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should rekey your business, a proactive approach to security is vital. Consider performing an annual assessment of your security protocols and include proactive measures for whenever there are employee changes or security incidents. As a rule of thumb, we recommend you rekey your business at least once or twice a year to prevent unwanted security issues.

Again, the frequency of rekeying your business depends on varying factors such as employee turnover, security incidents and routine maintenance. But if you stay proactive and vigilant, you can ensure that your business remains secure and protected. If you’re ready to have us assess your security situation or need for rekeying, contact A-1 Locksmith today.

If you’re a homeowner in Fort Worth—or any part of the DFW Metroplex—there are certain instances when it’s a wise idea to get your house rekeyed. Here are five of them.

1. Residential Moves

Whether you move into an old home or a new building, the recommendation for your Fort Worth home is the same: get it rekeyed! You don’t know who had access to the locks of your home, who may have made a copy of your keys and who knows the layout of your house. New homes are no exception!

2. Old or Damaged Locks

If your locks are sticking, broken, worn down or simply old, it might be time to replace them. While you’re at it, you might as well get new keys for these locks (and it may be necessary). The good news about old or damaged locks is that they’re an opportunity to upgrade. By installing a smart lock, for example, you increase both convenience and security. Many Fort Worth residents choose to combine services here to enjoy an upgrade during their replacement.

3. Compromised Keys

If you’ve lost a key, misplaced it for a time or had it stolen, this is another ideal time to get your Fort Worth home rekeyed. Keys that aren’t in your possession can be duplicated and that’s a security risk. Make sure you know where all copies of your house keys are at all times and set firm rules for any parties with responsibility for your home’s keys.

4. Upgraded Doors 

Similar to the lock scenario, your door is another home component that is prone to damage and decay. Or, you might have a builder’s grade or subpar door that isn’t giving you the security your Fort Worth home needs. As you determine which doors need to be upgraded, consider replacing the keys and locks on these doors as well.

5. Peace of Mind

Finally, rekeying on a regular basis (whether it’s every year or few years) can give you peace of mind when it comes to your Fort Worth home security. Just as you change your password regularly online, changing house keys often is a good practice to keep your home secure. You could argue that peace of mind is a benefit of all of these scenarios!  

If you’re interested in rekeying services in Fort Worth, TX, contact A-1 Locksmith today!