# Moving to St. Louis? Complete Lock and Security Checklist
Welcome to St. Louis! Whether relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, understanding local security needs helps you settle in safely and confidently.
As locksmiths serving St. Louis since 2010, we help hundreds of new residents secure their homes annually. This comprehensive guide covers immediate security actions, neighborhood-specific considerations, and local resources for establishing safe, welcoming homes throughout the metro area.
Immediate Actions (Day 1-7)
Rekey All Exterior Locks
Why It Matters: Previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, and showing visitors may have had keys. You cannot know how many copies exist or who has them. Lock rekeying is your first priority.
Cost: $150-300 for typical 3-4 bedroom St. Louis home Timeline: Schedule within first week; many locksmiths offer same-day service Priority: This is your #1 security action as a new homeowner
Inspect All Locks and Entry Points
- Do all exterior doors have deadbolts?
- Are locks operating smoothly?
- Do windows lock properly?
- Is garage door opener functional and secure?
- Are sliding glass doors secure?
St. Louis-Specific: Our freeze-thaw cycles affect lock operation. Sticky locks indicate moisture problems or age requiring attention before winter.
Test Security Systems
- Contact the security company for account transfer
- Change all PIN codes immediately
- Test sensors at doors and windows
- Verify monitoring service is active
- Update emergency contact information
Update Emergency Contacts
- St. Louis County: (314) 889-2341
- St. Louis City: (314) 444-5600
- St. Charles County: (636) 949-3000
Save These Numbers: Local locksmith, police non-emergency, trusted neighbors
Neighborhood-Specific Security Considerations
Clayton and Ladue
- High-security deadbolts (Medeco or Mul-T-Lock)
- Security system with monitoring
- Exterior lighting on timers
- Consider smart home integration
Cost: $500-1200 for comprehensive security upgrade Local Insight: Clayton and Ladue neighborhoods see infrequent but higher-value burglaries. Quality security systems deter professional thieves.
University City and Maplewood
- Quality deadbolts on all exterior doors
- Window locks verified and functional
- Motion-sensor exterior lighting
- Smart doorbell cameras
Cost: $300-600 for good security foundation Local Insight: Property crimes in University City and Maplewood occur but are often opportunistic. Visible security measures (cameras, lighting, quality locks) deter most attempts.
Kirkwood and Webster Groves
- Standard deadbolts sufficient
- Garage door security emphasized
- Window security for accessible entry points
- Outdoor lighting front and rear
Cost: $200-400 for standard security measures Local Insight: Kirkwood and Webster Groves have active community watches. Good neighbor relationships provide additional security layer.
Chesterfield and West County
- Smart security systems with phone alerts
- Long driveway lighting or motion sensors
- Secure garage (often contains $50,000+ vehicles)
- Consider security cameras at property perimeter
Cost: $400-800 for suburban security needs Local Insight: In Chesterfield, property sizes mean neighbors aren't as close. Security systems and smart lock installation compensate for distance.
Downtown and Urban St. Louis
- High-quality deadbolts essential
- Window security bars or quality locks
- Security system mandatory
- Smart video doorbells
- Well-lit entry areas
Cost: $400-800 for urban security requirements Local Insight: Visible security measures crucial. Multiple security layers (locks, lighting, cameras, alarms) deter opportunistic crime common in urban areas.
Security Checklist by Priority
Week 1: Critical Actions
Month 1: Important Security
✓ Install or upgrade deadbolts ($100-300) — consider professional lock installation ✓ Add window security measures ($50-200) ✓ Set up security system ($200-600 + monitoring) ✓ Install smart doorbell ($100-250) ✓ Secure sliding glass doors ($20-100)
Month 3: Enhanced Security
✓ Add motion-sensor lighting ($100-300) ✓ Install security cameras ($200-600) ✓ Upgrade to smart locks ($200-400) ✓ Secure basement and utility areas ($50-150) ✓ Trim landscaping for visibility ($100-300)
St. Louis Home Security Costs
Budget Security Plan ($300-500)
- Rekey all locks
- Basic deadbolts where missing
- Window locks
- Exterior lighting basics
- Doorbell camera
Appropriate For: Low-crime neighborhoods, tight budgets, apartments
Standard Security Plan ($600-1000)
- Rekey all locks
- Quality deadbolts throughout
- Security system (basic)
- Smart doorbell
- Motion lighting
- Window security
Appropriate For: Most St. Louis neighborhoods, typical family homes
Premium Security Plan ($1200-2500)
- Rekey to high-security locks
- Professional security system with monitoring
- Multiple smart cameras
- Smart locks at main entries
- Comprehensive exterior lighting
- Window sensors throughout
Appropriate For: High-value homes, higher-crime areas, maximum peace of mind
Local Resources for New Residents
Home Security Providers
ADT: National company with St. Louis presence, comprehensive monitoring SimpliSafe: DIY-friendly system popular with tech-savvy St. Louis residents Ring: Amazon-owned, excellent camera/doorbell integration Local Security Companies: Several St. Louis-based companies offer personalized service
Hardware Stores
Home Depot (multiple locations): Good lock selection, installation services available Lowe's (multiple locations): Similar offerings to Home Depot Ace Hardware (throughout metro): Helpful staff, convenient neighborhood locations Local Hardware Stores: Often have better expertise and service than chains
Locksmith Services
- Verify local address (not call center)
- Check online reviews (50+ reviews, 4.5+ rating)
- Get written estimates before work
- Confirm licensing and insurance
- Ask about warranties on parts and labor
Common New Resident Mistakes
Delaying Lock Rekeying
Mistake: Waiting weeks or months to rekey locks Reality: Every day with old keys increases security risk Solution: Schedule rekeying within first week, ideally during move-in
Assuming "Nice Neighborhood" Means Secure
Mistake: Believing neighborhood reputation eliminates security needs Reality: Burglaries happen everywhere; visible security deters criminals Solution: Implement appropriate security measures regardless of neighborhood perception
Ignoring Garage Security
Mistake: Focusing on home entry points while neglecting garage access Reality: Garages contain valuable items and often have door to house Solution: Change garage door codes immediately, add locks to garage entry doors, consider smart garage controllers
Over-Relying on HOA Security
Mistake: Assuming HOA or neighborhood security patrols provide complete protection Reality: These services supplement but don't replace home security measures Solution: Implement home-specific security even in neighborhoods with community safety programs
Seasonal Security Considerations
St. Louis Winters
- Lubricate all locks before winter
- Test backup keys in cold conditions
- Consider heated/covered entry for package deliveries
- Ensure outdoor lights work during long dark evenings
St. Louis Summers
- Verify window locks before relying on open windows for cooling
- Trim bushes/trees providing cover for burglars
- Vacation security planning (stopped mail, light timers, trusted neighbors checking property)
- Consider smart locks allowing temporary access for house sitters
Understanding St. Louis Crime Patterns
Property Crime Trends
Prevention: Quality locks, visible security systems, neighborhood watch participation
Package Theft
- Require signatures for valuable deliveries
- Use Amazon Lockers or store pickup options
- Install video doorbells
- Coordinate with neighbors for package watching
- Consider package lock boxes
Building Community Security
Getting to Know Neighbors
- Introduce yourself within first week
- Exchange phone numbers
- Share vacation schedules
- Offer reciprocal favors (mail collection, snow removal observation)
Neighborhood Watch Programs
- Attend meetings to learn local concerns
- Share security camera footage if incidents occur
- Participate in community communication (Nextdoor app popular in St. Louis)
- Report suspicious activity to police non-emergency lines
Smart Home Security Integration
Benefits for New Residents
Remote Monitoring: Check home from work or while traveling Activity Logs: Know exactly when doors open/close Temporary Access: Provide codes for contractors, dog walkers, house sitters Automation: Lights, locks, and thermostats create occupied appearance
Popular St. Louis Choices
Amazon Alexa: Most popular in St. Louis, integrates with Ring, Schlage, others Google Home: Growing adoption, works well with Nest products Apple HomeKit: Strong in Clayton and tech-forward neighborhoods, excellent privacy
Cost Considerations
Basic Smart Home Security: $300-600 (smart lock, doorbell camera, smart lights) Comprehensive Setup: $800-1500 (multiple cameras, smart locks, sensors throughout)
Renter-Specific Guidance
Allowed Security Measures
- Smart locks that install over existing hardware (August, Wyze)
- Doorbell cameras
- Window sensors (removable adhesive)
- Portable security cameras
- Replacing locks or adding deadbolts
- Hardwired security systems
- Permanent exterior modifications
Cost-Effective Renter Security
- Smart lock for existing deadbolt ($150-250)
- Video doorbell ($100-200)
- Portable security camera ($30-100)
- Door/window alarms ($20-50)
Total: $300-600 for good renter security taking with you when moving
Making St. Louis Home
Beyond physical security, feeling safe involves community connections:
Join Local Groups: Many St. Louis neighborhoods have Facebook groups, Nextdoor communities, or association meetings
Explore Your Area: Walk your neighborhood during different times. Understanding normal patterns helps you recognize unusual activity.
Support Local Businesses: Building relationships with nearby shops and restaurants creates community fabric improving neighborhood safety.
Participate in Community Events: Kirkwood Greentree Festival, Clayton Art Fair, Brentwood and Maplewood neighborhood events build connections.
Welcome to St. Louis! Taking these security actions helps you settle in confidently while enjoying everything our metro area offers.
For professional security consultation, lock rekeying, or security system installation for your new St. Louis home, call (314) 728-5700. We help new residents throughout St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and surrounding areas establish safe, welcoming homes.
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