Changing the locks

curious_badger

I'm shortly due to move in to a new flat (from purchase) and naturally will be looking to get the locks changed upon moving in to avoid the obvious possibility of somebody with a key walking back in.

I've been told I can change the barrell of the Yale lock which is the easiest way to carry out a lock change (obviously I will buy the new barrell from B&Q for example).
- Is this something the 'average joe' should be able to do? Or is this something best left to a locksmith?

Furthermore, I've been told to get (or change) a mortice lock.
- again, is this relatively easy to do? Or am I being too ambitious?
- This one will sound flippant but bare with me! If I did call-out a locksmith, I assume I will need to purchase this lock myself ahead of time? Or will a 'good' locksmith have one I can pay directly for 'in the van'.

Any advice is appreciated as I have zero experience with lock-changing (or locksmiths) and would rather know a bit more before calling up with any naive questions - thanks!

I_have_spoken

Changing a Yale barrel is very simple, I expect there's many videos on Youtube.

I've been told to get (or change) a mortice lock

That's more difficult - certainly fitting a mortice from scratch needs drills, chisels etc. Fitting is something a chippy could do TBH, it doesn't need a locksmith.

curious_badger

I_have_spoken wrote: »

Changing a Yale barrel is very simple, I expect there's many videos on Youtube.

Thanks, I can't believe I didn't think of that one myself (the worries of moving has overtaken my initiative) :shhh:

Old_Git

take the first lock of take to a locksmith and ask for one the same size .
Then do the same with the second lock .If you dont have a mortise lock ask a locksmith or local handyman to fit one

davidmcn

If you're changing a lock for one of the same type and size, it's pretty easy. All you normally need is a screwdriver (and possibly the patience to chip away at many layers of paint). Fitting an additional lock would be more tricky.

Locksmiths will be able to supply locks.

And if you're using both locks, you obviously only need to change one to prevent someone walking back in with an old set of keys.

G_M

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXAo7zSN-9o

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VHm_QhWlMQ

curious_badger

Thanks all for your advice/replies -

The yale will definitely take priority then! No need for any call-outs with instant peace of mind - I will definitely get a mortice lock fitted asap if there isn't one already (I'm assuming/hoping there will be one already though!).

curious_badger

G_M wrote: »

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXAo7zSN-9o

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VHm_QhWlMQ

Thanks! Don't know what I was worried about! Piece of cake!
looks like I won't be calling anyone out after all

kinger101

Whatever you do, check that the locks meet the specification required by your insurance provider.

curious_badger

kinger101 wrote: »

Whatever you do, check that the locks meet the specification required by your insurance provider.

Thanks, I will be sure to!

Hedgehog99

I changed a mortice lock. Took it to an independent lock & safe shop where they changed the levers for me (old levers were worn & lock had stopped working, so I couldn't just swap round the existing levers) & cut a new set of keys.

Of course, this does mean you need someone to stay & guard your house while you get this done!