Moving into a Bolton or Mayfield West home is exciting, and easy to rush. A short lock checklist in the first month prevents problems later.
Week 1: keys
Assume other keys exist. Builders, agents and trades may have had access. Rekey exterior doors so only your keys work.
Week 1: garage
Reset the garage door opener codes. Check the door from the garage to the house: it should have a proper deadbolt and a solid frame.
Week 2: doors
Look at every exterior door. Does it close squarely? Does the deadbolt extend fully? New houses settle, and a small adjustment now is easier than a repair later.
Week 3: codes and smart locks
If you plan a keypad or smart lock, install it now. Give each family member a code. See smart lock installation.
Week 4: spares and records
Make a small number of spare keys. Store one with someone you trust. Note where each key is.
Outbuildings
If you have a shed or a detached garage, check the padlock and hasp. See padlock installation.
Winter preparation
Cold weather stiffens locks. Lubricate with a dry lubricant, and check batteries in keypad locks.
When you need us
Bolton and Mayfield West are close to our Brampton base. Read the Caledon page.
Beyond the first week
Once the keys are changed and the garage codes reset, walk around the house and test each latch. Look at how the doors close after the first season of humidity changes. New construction can settle, and doors that seemed perfect may start to rub.
Small jobs that make a difference
Replace short screws in strike plates, adjust the hinges and add door sweeps where drafts appear. If you plan to add a smart lock, do it after the door has settled, so alignment is stable. Keep receipts and warranty details in one folder.
Questions about a lock or key problem? Apna Locksmith is a Brampton-based mobile locksmith serving Brampton, Vaughan, Caledon, Etobicoke and Halton Hills. Call (289) 406-1500 or see our service areas.