LANDLORDS: ARE YOUR TENANT'S LOCKS PUTTING YOU AT LEGAL RISK?
When a tenant moves out, most landlords focus on cleaning, repairs, and getting the unit rent ready. But overlooking the locks could expose you to serious legal and financial consequences.
🔐 Why Rekeying Isn’t Optional
Each time a tenant leaves, you have no way of knowing how many copies of the key are still out there.
Former roommates, cleaners, contractors, or even friends of the previous tenant may still have access.
If the locks aren’t rekeyed and an unauthorized person uses an old key to enter, you could be held liable, especially if there’s no sign of forced entry. In multiple cases, landlords have been found responsible for failing to provide adequate security.
⚖️ Your Legal Obligations as a Landlord
Most states require landlords to maintain a safe and secure living environment. That includes:
Ensuring locks are functional and meet local code requirements
- Rekeying or replacing locks between tenants
- Responding promptly to tenant concerns about safety
- Keeping records of who has key access
Neglecting these duties can result in:
- Negligence claims or lawsuits
- Breach of the warranty of habitability
- Loss of insurance coverage
- Fines for housing code violations
Even if you didn’t mean to skip rekeying, a court may still find you liable if tenant safety is compromised.
🚪 Not All Locks Are Created Equal
Trying to save money with cheap, off-the-shelf locks can backfire. Many of these locks are:
- Easy to pick or bypass
- Built with low-grade materials
- Non-compliant with insurance or building standards
For multi-unit buildings or properties with frequent turnover, professional-grade hardware and consistent key management aren’t just smart, they’re essential.
✅ How Smart Landlords Stay Protected
- Rekey all locks between tenants—every time
- Invest in high-quality locks that offer real protection
- Keep a key log to track who has access
- Partner with a reputable locksmith for expert service and support
Let Collier County Locksmith Make It Easy
We have professional experience in designing and installing low-budget access control systems for homes, offices, and rental properties. If you need a single keypad or a full multi-door system, we will guide you through your options and see that it is properly installed.
Contact us today to arrange a free consultation. Access control is no longer the preserve of the big firms—it's open to anyone who values security and convenience.
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