A Locked Mailbox: What You Need To Know About The Lock And Your Rights To Replace It
A locksmith can assist you when you need your locks changed or if you need additional keys made. When most people think of locksmiths, they think of the professional who can replace the locks on the entry doors to their home or who can help them if they get locked out of their cars. But, a locksmith can also help you replace the lock on a locked mailbox. Here is everything you need to know about locked mailboxes and your ability to replace the lock.
What Are the Reasons Why You May Want to Replace the Lock on a Mailbox?
The most common reason why someone may want to replace the lock on their locking mailbox is because they have lost the key or do not have a key. You may have lost the mailbox key or you may not have been given a key when you moved into the building. In some cases, your key may break, and replacing the lock is necessary. Your lock may also stop working or may be hard to turn, due to age. Finally, if you have recently kicked a spouse or roommate out and did not receive one of the mail keys back, you may want to change the locks to limit who has access currently to the box.
Can You Replace the Lock on a US Postal Service Mailbox?
One of the common misconceptions out there is that you are not legally able to change a lock on a US Postal Service mailbox. This is not the case. The Postal Service does offer lock replacement services as well, or you have the right to replace the lock on your own, including hiring a locksmith to do this for you.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Locksmith to Help You Replace the Lock?
While you can use the US Postal Service to replace the lock on your mailbox, they often charge a hefty fee to replace the lock. In addition to this, they may have waits to replace the lock. It is typically faster and cheaper to use a locksmith when you are looking to replace the lock on your locked mailbox.
Whether you have lost the key to your locked mailbox, have an old lock that is not working correctly, or worry about someone using an old key to gain entry to your mailbox, a locksmith can help you by replacing the lock. If you are looking to replace the lock on your mailbox, contact a locksmith today. Be sure to have a state-issued identification card and a piece of mail with your current address, a closing document or your lease, so the locksmith can verify that you are the person who lives there and is thus able to change the locks on your mailbox.