Security is among the biggest concerns when renting a house. If you fail to keep your rental property safe, you will have a difficult time attracting tenants. The good news is that smart locks can make life easier when securing your rental home. They offer keyless entry, remote control, digital access logs, and many other advanced features. Read on, and let's explore more on how to pick the right smart locks while respecting tenant rights.
How to Find the Best Smart Lock for a Rental Property
Not all smart locks are built the same. As a landlord or property manager, you want a lock that is secure, easy to manage, and tenant-friendly. Here are some of the features that you need to be mindful of:
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Keyless entry and unique access codes
A smart lock will help you create separate codes for each tenant, so you can easily change codes between tenants. There is no need to replace hardware and go through all the hassle linked with it. This removes the trouble of collecting physical keys when someone moves out. On top of that, you can allow tenants to use their own security keys.
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Remote access and control
You should look for a lock that comes with built-in Wi-Fi or Z-Wave hub connectivity. This will help residents to lock or unlock the door from anywhere in the world. They just need to have the phone app in place. This can be beneficial for you as well, during maintenance visits or emergencies.
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Audit trails
Many smart locks record every entry and exit. This will help you see exactly who comes in and who goes out. This will add an extra layer of accountability for both landlords and tenants.
While keeping these essential features in mind, you can start looking for smart locks. Considering guest turnover rates can help determine the best smart lock for a rental property suitable for frequent stays.
Can a Tenant Change the Locks? Understanding the Rules and Rights
This is one of the most common questions that you encounter in landlord-tenant relationships. The answer will depend on your state. Understanding the rules around whether a tenant can change the locks on a rental property can prevent conflicts.
In most states, a tenant cannot change the locks without the landlord's written permission. But if the tenant changes the locks, they should provide a copy of the new key to the landlord right away. Failing to do it will result in a lease violation. It can even lead to legal trouble for tenants.
Here are some of the most common laws related to changing locks.
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A landlord can only change the lock or key combination for non-payment of rent. The lease contract would clearly explain how this is done.
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Even after changing the locks, the landlord should provide a new key to the tenant upon request. It doesn’t matter if the tenant has paid the rent or not.
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The landlord should post a written notice on the tenant's front door, including a phone number or address for collecting the new key, within 2 hours.
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Tenants in apartment complexes that receive housing tax credits will not be locked out. They can’t even be threatened with being locked out.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, it will be possible for you to go ahead and change the lock as a tenant. However, make sure to double-check state-specific laws before taking any action. Communicating with the landlord can help you prevent disputes at all times.
Tips for Balancing Security and Convenience in Rental Homes
Good security should not come at the cost of convenience. Here are some practical tips that landlords and tenants can follow to discover the perfect balance:
For Landlords:
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Make sure to include a lock policy in the lease contract. You can then specifically mention when the lock will be changed and the procedure for doing so.
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It is better to use smart locks with temporary codes at all times. Then you can issue short-term codes for cleaning crews, repair teams, and inspections. You can deactivate the code once inspection is done.
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Always reset codes between tenants. Make sure not to reuse existing access codes. You can simply change them digitally on smart locks without getting the help of a locksmith.
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Go ahead and buy locks that can work offline. That's because a lock that requires internet connectivity to function can be an issue during outages. This is why you should pick locks with offline backup options, such as PIN codes.
For Tenants:
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Carefully go through your lease contract before you touch anything. That's because the lease contract will usually have rules about locks. Then you can figure out what you can possibly do and what you can't.
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If you are requesting smart lock access from the landlord, you should do it in writing. You can also request that the landlord keep it as a unique code and not share it with anyone.
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If you encounter security issues with the lock, you need to report them right away. For example, assume your lock gets broken, or a key gets lost. Then you need to notify your landlord immediately. Waiting too long can create liability issues for both parties.
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Be aware of your local rights, as tenant laws vary by state and city. Resources like your local tenant advocacy organization can help you with it.
Final Words
Ensuring the security of rental properties shouldn't have to be complicated. Smart locks can offer better control and transparency to both landlords and tenants. The key is to pick the right lock for your property. Then you need to understand who has the legal rights to manage it. When landlords and tenants work together on security, everyone will win.
