As a landlord, one important aspect of maintaining safe rental units for your tenants is in the use of door hardware. Specifically, there are times when it will be necessary to change the locks on the unit doors. This overview points out a few times when that will be necessary and provides a few options for locks.

What Landlords Should Know About Locks

When Should Door Locks Be Changed?

When a tenant vacates one of your rental units, you’ll likely have to go through the apartment to make minor repairs and updates. This is also a good time to address the locks on the unit’s access doors. Changing the locks and accompanying door hardware each time a tenant moves out is a safety precaution that will help protect a new tenant from unwanted intruders.

Take any claims that a lock has been tampered with seriously. If a tenant believes someone has tried forcing open the lock on their door, replace it immediately. Just because there’s no visible damage to the door’s hardware, doesn’t mean something wasn’t tampered with inside the lock mechanism. Changing out the equipment will also give your tenants the peace of mind that comes with knowing you care about their safety and security.

What Solutions Are Available From Local Locksmiths? 

A residential locksmith can install a new lock of your choosing, including any smart technology. Smart locks are not only more cost-effective, but they also offer more control over who can gain access to each unit. Permissions can be granted instantly and, once it has been programmed, a tenant can use an app on their cellphone to lock and unlock their door. As tenants move out, you can revoke access via your own smart lock app.

Another option is to install a key card or key fob system. This system is similar to a smart lock where access can be easily granted or revoked. If a tenant loses their card or fob, you can use the corresponding software on your computer to cancel access to the lost device and instantly grant access to a new one. Also, instead of frequently changing locks as tenants move, you can revoke the old cardholder’s permissions.

When you’re ready to update the door hardware on your rental units, trust the experienced technicians at Elyria Locksmith Service, Inc. These locksmiths service Lorain County and can repair or replace locks on residential and commercial properties. They also provide key replacement and automobile locksmith services. This team is backed by over 38 years of experience, and every customer benefits from a 90-day warranty on parts and service. Contact them online, or call (440) 366-5625 for more information.