After scrupulous search, you have finally found a great apartment. You enjoy this new place. You take a book snuggling up in bed with fluffy blankets. Suddenly someone enters without knocking! It is the landowner. You start wondering. Does your landlord have to have a key? In this article, we explore changing locks on rental property issues and other residential security questions.
Tenant Right to Change Locks
There is no universal legal requirement concerning tenancy aspects. Corresponding laws vary in different states. Several steps provided below will make dealing with it easier.
- Best way for protecting your security interests is reading tenancy agreements carefully. If you feel any provisions are missing, discuss that with your landlord. It’s easier to include them to the text before signing an agreement.
- Changing locks on rental property is the owner’s prerogative. Do not opt for it by yourself! It may end up in your bearing all the expenses. If there is a replacement need, talk to the property owner before proceeding.
- When can you change the locks on a tenant? After the previous leaseholder moves out, and before the new one moves in. Do not do that without informing the property residents.
Landowners and residents should do their best for ensuring home security. Learn more about Locksmith Henderson and Las Vegas NV and choose your perfect solution.
Do Landlords Have to Change Locks between Tenants?
Your responsibility as property owner is providing safe living space for those who pay for it. What should you do? Here are three most popular solutions.
- Replace locks. Doing it in advance seems reasonable. It’s the safest. You never know who may have retained key copies. However, this works well only for long-term tenancy. It may appear expensive and burdensome with high tenant turnover.
- Rekey locks. A locksmith will skillfully rearrange tumblers, so the old key does not fit in. This option is much cheaper and takes less time.
- Electronic house locks. With this solution, the only thing you need is using the right numeric code. Make sure not to write it on doors or somewhere where it can be easily found. The advantage of this choice is obvious. You will never leave the keys in your car or at work!
Check ‘Top 5 Best Electronic Smart Locks 2020’ and learn more.
Does Your Landlord Have to Have a Key?
Owners should have keys to their property. This does not mean they can visit you anytime and mess around. Your right to privacy must be duly respected. Landlords may come if there is a need for regular maintenance. Keys may be used in case of emergency. It won’t hurt giving notice the day before.
Tenant right to change locks applies only when agreed with the landowner in advance. Also, it is the case when doors are damaged because of leaseholders’ fault.
Maintaining friendly relationships between property owners and residents helps in dealing with these issues. The ability to negotiate and compromise turns out to be a useful skill in this respect.
When Can You Change the Locks on a Tenant?
You can make the replacement:
- Before the tenant moves in;
- If the lock is damaged;
- At leaseholder’s request (keep in mind the tenant right to change locks);
- At your discretion after tenant’s approval.
Residential safety issues can be a true challenge. But with reasonable approach, anyone overcomes them easily! The main thing is to be attentive, careful and protect your interests. Enjoy your new home and do not forget to check our blog for more useful tips.Protecht will assist you in replacing locks quickly and effortlessly. Feel free to contact us!
