Changing the lock as a new tenant? (apartment, lease agreement, rental)

[snowmountains]

Sometimes a new tenant feels like installing a new lock (either as an additional lock, or to replace the existing one) for security concern.

Would it seem a little rude or distrusting to ask the LL for permission to install a new lock?

Would most LL allow it? If yes, do they usually ask to get a key for themselves (LL)? If yes, why?

[TKramar]

You're renting--it's still their property. They have a right to access it at any time.

[KonaKat]

Most leases and/or tenant handbooks state that you may not change the lock without the landlord's knowledge and permission. Of course most would not refuse such a request. and yes, you must give them a key.

[snowmountains]

Thanks. How would a LL feel if the new tenant asks about this?

[LOA Chandler]

As a rule, landlords usually change the locks or have them re-keyed after each tenant moves out. This is a basic security matter. The Landlord needs a key for maintenance reasons, such as letting in repairmen, insurance appraisers etc... In AZ there is the Landlord Tenant Act which requires that the tenant be given 48 hours notice befor the landlord enters the property. It may vary state to state.

[TKramar]

Originally Posted by ssww

Thanks. How would a LL feel if the new tenant asks about this?

I don't think they'd have a problem--particularly if you did it at your own expense, as long as they retained a key.

[housingcrashsurvivor]

I would not be offended if a tenant wanted to change a lock. As mentioned above, I would insist on having a key. I would expect no damage done during the lock change.

However, I've installed keypad locks which I think my tenants might like because this way they don't have to carry yet another key and to avoid rekeying in the future.

They look like this (I did use the pictured brand but am posting only for reference, not as endorsement)...

[virgode]

Leases refer to changing the locks without consent and additional locks as alteration to the premises.

I'd make my request in writing, there shouldn't be a problem as long as you provide a key.

Originally Posted by ssww

Sometimes a new tenant feels like installing a new lock (either as an additional lock, or to replace the existing one) for security concern.

Would it seem a little rude or distrusting to ask the LL for permission to install a new lock?

Would most LL allow it? If yes, do they usually ask to get a key for themselves (LL)? If yes, why?

[Irish4evr]

Originally Posted by TKramar

You're renting--it's still their property. They have a right to access it at any time.

I don't believe that is correct. Read your lease agreement, owners/property managers etc. have a right to enter upon reasonable notice, State laws may differ regarding timeframe for "notice of right to enter" so check it out.

I would almost insist on that lock change because if you do not, and the previous tenant had ill intent, you could become an instant victim.

As a previous owner of rental properties, I changed out and re-key locks with every tenant change/ lost key etc. and had all keys stamped..."DO NOT DUPLICATE"...it's no guarantee, but better than nothing......good luck !

[virgode]

Originally Posted by Irish4evr

I don't believe that is correct. Read your lease agreement, owners/property managers etc. have a right to enter upon reasonable notice, State laws may differ regarding timeframe for "notice of right to enter" so check it out.

I would almost insist on that lock change because if you do not, and the previous tenant had ill intent, you could become an instant victim.

As a previous owner of rental properties, I changed out and re-key locks with every tenant change/ lost key etc. and had all keys stamped..."DO NOT DUPLICATE"...it's no guarantee, but better than nothing......good luck !

Apartment dwellers may not be aware, some property managers rotate locks after the tenant vacates for this reason, but it's certainly an option for security measures.