Why should I use a professional locksmith company? 

  • Skilled professional locksmiths bring experience and fund of knowledge in lock, safe & security problems and are better prepared to solve security issues to your unique situation. Professional locksmiths can prescribe state-of-the-art products that work, and more effective solutions in an efficient manner.

I have a key marked "Do Not Duplicate".  Can I use it anyway? 

  • Keys marked "Do Not Duplicate," "Do Not Copy," or "Unlawful to Copy" may be duplicated only if a letter of authorization from the owner or supervisor is presented with the request for duplication. The letter should be on company letterhead and identify the key to be made, the number of keys, the person picking up the keys, and the name and number of the person writing the letter. The person picking up the keys will be required to fill out a "Request for Restricted Keys" form. We reserve the right to refuse to duplicate any key marked "Do Not Duplicate."

The lock does not lock and unlock smoothly. 

  • After you have tried the above solution, check to see it the lock operates smoothly with the door open. If it does, your lock problem is not in the lock, but rather in the alignment of the door and frame. Look for obstructions at the threshold and in the door jammed. Also check the door and frame for twists and warps. The door should completely rest against the door stop and stay there. If the door rests at the stop at the top or bottom only then the door or frame is twisted. If the door springs open then the hinges are probably binding. If you have weatherstrip on the door, it could be obstructing the path of the door. Keep in mind, wooden doors and frames will warp and swell with temperature and humidity, and metal doors and frames will twist and rust with age.

Is there such a thing as a key that can open all locks? 

  • No. A "master" key is a key which works many locks. In order for a particular master key to work in a lock, the lock has to be set up to work on that master key. Locks are typically master keyed in hotels, office buildings, and schools. Rest assured that there is no such master key that opens all locks.

Can all of my locks be keyed the same? 

  • If one key will go into all locks, then yes. This means that all of the keyways are the same and the same key can be used to open all of the locks. If you cannot put one key into all of the locks, then no. Different keyways cannot accept the same key and you may need to upgrade the hardware. 

I am moving into a new home, should I rekey the locks? They seem to working properly. 

  • The answer is YES! Everyone has someone that they trust with their house keys; this does not mean you can trust them. How many neighbors, old baby sitters, cleaning people are walking around with the key to your home? Change the locks and then give keys to people you and you alone trust.

What is the difference between rekey and master keying? 

  • Re-keying means adjusting the tumblers in an existing lock so that only new keys can open it.

    Many people, who continue to use the same key that they received when they bought their home, have no idea of how many people such as tradesmen, neighbors and friends etcetera, who are no longer relevant, have had access to that key. For a fee Sure Lock & Homes will re-key your locks and give you the security of knowing that only you and the people you trust will have access to your domain. Lost your keys? Relax; re-keying will adapt your existing locks to new keys. Sure Lock & Homes installs, replaces and upgrades lock cylinders, locksets and deadbolt locks.

Can I buy lock opening tools? 

  • No, it is illegal in most states to sell or possess burglary or entry tools. Sure Lock & Homes LLC. will not sell entry tools to anyone.

I can install the hardware, why not just buy it at the home center and do it myself? 

  • Products typically sold in home stores are residential quality at best, at worst the shelves are stacked with low end products meant to increase profits for the manufacturer and the retailer. High quality goods offer characteristics such as, pick and drill resistance, access control options, protection against the unauthorized duplication of keys. The question you have to ask is what is your time really worth?

My landlord gave me the keys, why should I get new ones? 

  • It is your stuff! When was the last time the locks were changed? If you don not know the answer then you and your company are potentially at risk. Some property management companies in an effort to save money simply swap the locks from one unit to another and have a brand new set of keys made. A previous tenant with some time to kill could simply try his key in each door in the complex until he finds one that works.

Why do I have to wiggle my keys in the lock to make it work? 

  • As locks age over time, the pins in a lock cylinder tend to "wear" down causing your keys to stick and forcing you to "jiggle or wiggle" the key in the lock to make it work. Most likely the keys you were given have probably been "copied" several times and this, plus pin wear, can cause your lock to act like it is breaking.

What is a home inspection? 

  • A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

What does a home inspection include?

  • The standard home inspector´s report will cover the condition of the home´s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

    The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) publishes a Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what you should expect to be covered in your home inspection report.

When do I call a home inspector?

  • Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Do I have to be there? 

  • While it´s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

What if the report reveals problems? 

  • No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn´t mean you should or shouldn´t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don´t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

If the house proves to be in good condition, do I really need a home inspection? 

  • Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You´ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector´s written report, and will have that information for future reference.

Can a house fail a home inspection? 

  • No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

Why do I need a home inspection? 

  • Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you´ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence. If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

    If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What will it cost? 

  • The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

    Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector´s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state´s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide. 

Why can't I do it myself?

  • Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home´s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

    Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.

How do I find a home inspector? 

  • You can ask friends or business acquaintances to recommend a home inspector they have used. Or, you can use the Find An Inspector search tool for a list of home inspectors in your area who belong to the non-profit professional organization. To have a list mailed to you, call 1-800-743-ASHI (2744). Also, real estate agents and brokers are familiar with the service and may be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose.

    Whatever your referral source, you can be assured of your home inspector´s commitment to professional standards and business ethics by choosing one who has membership in ASHI.

Contact Sure Lock & Homes today at 231-357-7230 or by email to learn more about all we can do for you!