If You Read Nothing Else, Read This…
- Don't change or replace a lock without first checking your lease and understanding your landlord's requirements.
- If you lose a key, report it promptly and find out the process for getting a replacement or having the lock changed.
- Know what keys, fobs, access cards, or remotes you'll be expected to return when you move out.
Your Keys Are Part of Your Rental
Keys probably aren't something you think about much once you've moved in. You grab them on the way out, unlock your door when you get home, and hopefully don't have to think about them again.
Until one goes missing.
Maybe you lost your apartment key on campus. Maybe your roommate misplaced theirs. Or maybe you simply want to change the locks because you'd feel more comfortable knowing exactly who has access to your home.
Before heading to the hardware store or calling a locksmith, start with your lease.
Lost a Key? Don't Just Make Another One
If you lose a key, your first instinct might be to have a replacement made. But your property may have specific rules for lost keys.
Check your lease or resident policies to see what you're required to do. You may need to notify your landlord or property manager, request a replacement directly from them, or pay a replacement fee. If the missing key can be connected to your apartment or building, there may also be a security reason to consider changing or rekeying the lock rather than simply making another copy.
The same applies to electronic fobs, access cards, garage remotes, and other devices used to enter the property. Report a missing device promptly so you can find out what your next step should be.
Thinking About Changing the Locks?
You may want to change a lock for added peace of mind, especially after moving into a new place. But being the renter doesn't necessarily mean you can replace the locks whenever you want.
Your lease may prohibit changing or adding locks without permission. Your landlord may also need a way to access the property when legally permitted or during an emergency. Some properties may require that lock changes be handled by their own maintenance team or an approved locksmith.
Before changing, rekeying, or adding a lock, review your lease and contact your landlord or property manager to understand the proper process.
Don't Forget About Your Roommates
If you share your rental, a key issue can affect everyone.
If a lock needs to be changed because one roommate lost a key, everyone may need new keys. If you're considering adding a lock or changing an existing one, your roommates also need to know how it affects their access.
This is one of those situations where communicating early can prevent confusion later.
Keep Track of Everything You Received
Your front-door key may not be the only thing you need to keep track of. Depending on your rental, you might also have a building key, mailbox key, bedroom key, parking garage remote, amenity fob, or access card.
Keep these items somewhere secure and know which ones belong to the property. When your lease ends, you may be expected to return all of them. Missing keys or access devices could result in replacement charges or other fees depending on your lease.
The Bottom Line
Keys are small, but losing one or changing a lock can create a bigger issue than you might expect.
If something goes missing, report it. If you want to change a lock, check your lease first. And throughout your tenancy, keep track of the keys, fobs, cards, and remotes you've been given.
When it comes to access to your rental, don't make assumptions. Know the rules before you change the locks.