Homeowners often ask locksmiths how to secure their homes when an ex-roommate, former roommate, or ex partner is no longer welcomed. No matter if the person is an ex-roommate, former partner or tenant. Take the necessary steps to prevent them from entering your home. Even if someone still has the key, changing locks, rekeying, and using smart lock solutions are effective ways to lock them out.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Before you act, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights. If the person in question has a right to stay in the home, such as a tenant or co-tenant, you may need to start formal eviction proceedings. You can be more flexible if they don’t have the legal right to enter.
How to lock someone in?
1. Rekeying Locks
Rekeying is an efficient and cost-effective way to secure your home. This process involves changing internal mechanisms to ensure that the old key no longer works and that a new key is required for access. Locksmiths are able to rekey locks within minutes, providing immediate security.
- Cost: $20 – $50 per lock
- This is the best option when you want to keep a lock but deny access to the previous keyholder
2. Replace the locks
If rekeying is not possible, replace the lock. This is especially useful if your lock is old or damaged. Modern deadbolts and high-security locks offer better protection against forced entry and drilling.
- Cost: $100 – $300 (including installation)
- It is recommended that you upgrade your home security system by replacing the old lock.
3. Installing a smartlock
Smart locks can be a good way to control the access in your house. These locks can be programmed with new codes and controlled remotely using a smartphone. Some models allow you to revoke a person’s access privileges without physically intervening.
- Cost: $150 – $500
- Best for: People who are looking to gain more control of their home, and the people who enter it.
4. Add a deadbolt or security chain
The method does not stop someone who has a lock from opening the door, but adding an additional barrier such as a security bar that only locks inside the door or a second deadbolt could be a good option. It is a temporary fix that will work if you need to lock your door quickly while you plan for a permanent solution.
- Cost: $20 – $50
- Temporary and rapid security reinforcement
5. Garage door codes: How to change them
If someone has gained entry to your home through your automatic garage, it’s vital to reset the code. You can reset the garage code using the control panel or mobile app on modern garage doors.
- Cost: Free (if you reset yourself) or minimal (if a locksmith helps).
- Best for: Preventing access through the garage
6. Secure secondary entry points and windows
Even if your main door locks have been changed, a determined person may still try to enter through sliding doors or windows, or even the back doors. These entry points can be further enhanced by installing additional locks, alarms and security bars.
- Cost: varies depending on the level of security.
- The best home security upgrades are those that include comprehensive improvements
Additional Precautions
1. Notify authorities if needed
If you’re concerned that a person may attempt to enter the house without permission or pose a threat, it is a good idea for you to contact the local authorities. In cases of domestic disputes and restraining orders, legal assistance is usually required.
2. Inform Trusted Neighbors
If you’re worried about an attempted unwanted entry, you can raise your vigilance and alert a neighbor that you trust. They can alert you or the police if they see any suspicious activity taking place on your property.
3. Monitor Your Home with a Security System
Installation of security cameras in conjunction with an alarm system can deter unauthorised entry, and provide evidence if an accident occurs. Modern security systems will send real-time notifications directly to your phone when someone attempts to enter your house.
You need to be strategic when locking out someone with a key. Rekeying, replacing your locks, installing smart locks, and securing a second entrance can be effective ways to regain control over your property. If there are any legal implications, consult a professional or legal expert. Take the necessary steps to protect your home.
This article was written by Unico Locksmith. Unico Locksmith specializes in residential and commercial lock changes, re-key services, automotive locksmith service, and locksmith qualified emergency situations. Unico Locksmith is the fastest and best locksmith in Maryland.
