1. Rekey or change every exterior lock
This is non-negotiable and comes first. Previous owners, agents, cleaners, contractors, and neighbors may all have keys. Lock rekeying changes the pins so old keys stop working, matches every door to one key, and costs a fraction of replacing hardware. If a lock is worn or you want an upgrade, a lock change makes sense instead.
2. Upgrade main entries for the Arizona heat
Builder-grade and worn locks fail faster in the Phoenix sun. Upgrade your front and side doors to a Grade 1 deadbolt with a reinforced strike plate secured by 3-inch screws — the biggest security gain for the money. West-facing doors that bake all afternoon should be first in line.
3. Secure the forgotten entries
- The garage-to-house door — often the weakest, most-forgotten lock
- Side and RV gates
- Sliding patio doors (add a bar or pin lock)
- Pet doors large enough to reach through
- Any keypad or smart lock left by the previous owner — reset the codes
4. Set up keyless and spares
Consider a smart lock on the main door for keyless entry and guest codes — just pick a heat-rated brand and keep a keyed override. Then make at least two spare keys and store one off-site or with someone you trust, so a lockout is a minor inconvenience, not an emergency.
5. Know a 24/7 locksmith before you need one
Lockouts and lost keys always happen at the worst time. Save a bonded, insured, 24/7 mobile locksmith's number now. Explore all our Phoenix locksmith services so you know exactly who to call.
Your first-week checklist at a glance
- Rekey or change all exterior locks to one key
- Upgrade front/side doors to a Grade 1 deadbolt
- Secure the garage door, gates, and sliders
- Reset any existing keypad/smart-lock codes
- Add a smart lock if you want keyless entry
- Make two spares, store one off-site
- Save a 24/7 locksmith's number
New to Phoenix? We'll secure your home
Rhinox is a bonded, insured, mobile residential locksmith serving Phoenix, Mesa, and the East Valley 24/7. We rekey, upgrade deadbolts, and set up smart locks — often in one visit. Call (602) 905-0606.