How To Choose Landlord Locks For Your Rental Properties

"Landlord lock" is a type of lock used for landlords or property managers to control access to rental properties, which not only secures your property and tenants but also offers convenient management features such as rekeying. A right landlord lock can greatly save you money and time in some situations, for example, you can easily rekey an apartment's door lock without the help of a locksmith when a tenant moves out. If your rental business or scale is large or the tenant turnover is high, a right landlord lock is extremely important. To help you pick up a suitable landlord lock, we have summarized several tips for consideration. Just keep them in mind when choosing the landlord lock.

What You Need To Consider When Buying A Landlord Lock

Access Management

Being a rental property manager can be challenging, with frequent repairs and visits from new tenants. Each tenant moving in and out brings the challenge of changing locks and keys. One solution to this problem is mechanical landlord locks like EleMake Mechanical Landlord Lock, which allow the landlord access to all rooms with a master key while tenants have personalized passwords. This system makes the process of changing locks and keys for each tenant less time-consuming and hassle-free. Moreover, smart locks take this a step further by enabling landlords to control access remotely through a smartphone app. The convenience and security of mechanical landlord locks and smart locks make them a popular choice among property managers.  

Rekeying

Rekeying is a process where the internal pins of a lock are changed to match a new key, rendering the old key useless. Rekeying is essential for rental properties as it allows you to change the locks without having to replace the entire lock, saving you time and money. The rekeying method varies depending on the type and brand of lock. For example, a lock with a Smartkey system allows you to rekey the lock itself using a special tool and a new key, while a lock with an interchangeable cylinder allows you to simply replace the inner cylinder with a new one that uses a different key.

Security

When it comes to security, it’s suggested to look for locks that have an authoritative certificate like ANSI or BHMA which has a grade rating of 1-3. The higher the rating, the more secure the lock. Furthermore, deadbolts are an excellent choice for security because they are difficult to pick or force open. They also provide a physical barrier that prevents anyone from entering without a key. Additionally, it is recommended to choose a lock with a reinforced strike plate and hardened steel bolts for added security. 

Cost

Cost is another critical consideration when choosing a landlord lock. The cost of landlord locks varies depending on the type of lock and brand. It is important to consider your budget when selecting a lock, but it is also important to remember that investing in a high-quality lock can save you money in the long run. Cheaper locks may be more affordable upfront, but they are usually less durable and may need to be replaced more frequently. Generally, you can find landlord locks that range from around $20 to $150 or more.

Durability

Durability is an essential factor to consider. Rental properties experience high traffic, and the locks must withstand the wear and tear of regular use. It is recommended to choose a lock made of durable materials such as zinc alloy, brass, steel, or nickel. Additionally, it is essential to select a lock with a warranty to ensure that any defects or issues are covered.

Conclusion

Choosing the right landlord lock for your rental properties is important for both security and convenience. Consider factors such as the type of lock, rekeying options, security features, cost, and durability when making your selection. By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a landlord lock that meets your needs and provides peace of mind for you and your tenants.