Security kit for the first week in a new home
Updated
You do not know who still has a key. This kit rekeys the doors, reinforces the frame, adds a keypad lock and puts sensors on every ground-floor entry, with prices and a first-week checklist.
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Before you buy
Assume previous owners, agents, contractors and neighbors may have keys, garage remotes or alarm codes. The first week in a new home is the cheapest time to close those gaps.
Why the frame comes first
Police crime-prevention guidance from Seattle says kicking in a door with a wooden jamb is the most common forced entry, and that the strike plate is the weakest point. The bulletin recommends 3- to 4-inch screws that reach the wall stud and a deadbolt with a throw of at least 1 inch. A federal burglary survey found damaging or removing a door was the most common entry method. A $10 strike plate and a few long screws strengthen the weakest point more than any camera.
Rekey or replace?
- Rekey: keep the same lock hardware and change the pins so old keys no longer work. Cheaper, and a rekey kit works if you are comfortable following the instructions. A locksmith can also do it.
- Replace: choose when the lock is worn, loose or a poor fit. A new deadbolt should have a throw of at least 1 inch.
If you rent, you may rekey only with the landlord’s permission; check your lease.
First-week checklist
| Day | Task |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Rekey or replace exterior deadbolts; reset the garage door keypad and clear old remotes; change any alarm code |
| Day 2–3 | Fit strike plates and long screws; check hinge screws; check windows and sliding doors |
| Day 4–5 | Install the smart lock, hub and sensors |
| Day 6–7 | Add a doorbell or light; test every sensor and set codes |
Windows and sliding doors
Cover glass within 40 inches of a deadbolt with a security grille or film, according to Tucson police guidance. See sliding door options. Do not use a double-cylinder deadbolt on a door that people may need to leave in a hurry; the building code requires exit doors to open from inside without a key.
Accounts
Set up new accounts on a strong password and turn on two-factor sign-in. The FTC recommends changing default credentials.
Core items
Deadbolt rekey kits or new deadbolts × 2
$20–$80You do not know who has keys to a home you just bought. Rekeying or replacing the exterior deadbolts is the first job. Two covers the front and back door.
What to look for: rekey kit that matches your lock brand and keyway, or a new ANSI/BHMA-graded deadbolt with at least a 1-inch throw, keyed alike for all doors
See options on AmazonKeypad or smart deadbolt for the main door
$90–$300Lets you issue codes to movers, cleaners and contractors and delete them when the work is finished, instead of copying keys.
What to look for: scheduled codes, activity log, auto-lock, physical key or 9-volt backup, inside thumb-turn, fits your door
See options on AmazonReinforced strike plates and long screws × 2
$8–$25Kicking in a door with a wooden jamb is the most common forced entry, and the strike plate is the weak point. A longer plate and 3-inch screws tie it into the framing.
What to look for: strike plate at least 4 inches long, case-hardened screws 3 inches long, finish to match the door
See options on AmazonDoor and window contact sensors × 6
$10–$40Covers the two exterior doors and the ground-floor windows, so you know the moment one opens while you are out.
What to look for: the same protocol as your hub (Zigbee, Thread, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi), replaceable battery, alert when left open
See options on AmazonHub or controller for sensors and the lock
$30–$150Collects the sensors, sends one alert and lets you add cameras and lights later, even if you change ecosystems.
What to look for: local automations, push notifications, supports your sensors’ protocol, battery backup
See options on AmazonNice to have
Video doorbell
$50–$230Shows who is at the door while movers and contractors come and go.
What to look for: wired or battery, 2K, chime support, local storage option
See options on AmazonMotion-activated exterior light
$20–$70Lights the back door and the side yard. Police crime-prevention guidance recommends motion lights for large or hidden yards.
What to look for: dusk-to-dawn sensor plus motion mode, adjustable range, exterior rated
See options on AmazonGarage door keypad or opener code reset
$25–$60Previous owners may know the keypad PIN or still have a remote, so reset it on day one.
What to look for: wireless keypad compatible with your opener, or check your opener manual for clearing remotes
See options on AmazonCombination lockbox
$15–$50Holds a spare key for a contractor or a trusted neighbor without handing out copies.
What to look for: 4-digit or more code, zinc or steel body, weather-resistant
See options on AmazonStep by step
- Rekey or replace the exterior deadbolts. Test every new key from outside before closing the door.
- Replace short strike-plate screws with 3-inch screws, and swap in a longer strike plate.
- Reset the garage keypad, clear old remotes and change any alarm or gate codes.
- Install the keypad lock following the door fit guide and set the first codes.
- Set up the hub, then add the contact sensors on exterior doors and ground-floor windows.
- Test each sensor and the lock’s auto-lock with the door open.
- Add a video doorbell or motion light, using the front door security kit as the next step.
Cheaper or upgraded versions
Budget version, about $60–$150: rekey kits, two strike plates with long screws and a lockbox. Skip the smart lock and sensors.
Upgrade, $600 and up: add a video doorbell, an outdoor camera and a professional locksmith for rekeying and a deadbolt on every exterior door.
Frequently asked questions
Should I change the locks when I move into a new home?
Yes, rekey or replace them on day one. You cannot know who still has a key, and this is one of the cheapest security steps you can take.
Is rekeying cheaper than replacing locks?
Usually. A rekey kit usually costs less than a new deadbolt, and a locksmith can do it if you prefer. Replace locks that are worn or loose.
How do I secure the garage door in a new house?
Clear the old remotes, change the keypad PIN and check the opener manual. Never disable the safety sensors on the door.
Do I need cameras right away?
Not on the first day. Fix keys, frame and sensors first, then add a doorbell or camera.
Sources
- Seattle Police Department — Home security: doors
- Tucson Police Department — Neighborhood Watch home security booklet
- Bureau of Justice Statistics — Victimization during household burglary (press release, 2010; data for 2003–2007)
- Montana Department of Labor & Industry — 2021 IRC means of egress (training slides, R311.2)
- Federal Trade Commission — Securing your internet-connected devices at home