Landlords install security cameras or hire security personnel to keep their rental properties safe. However, one of the most basic security measures is sometimes overlooked: doors and locks.
When choosing the locks you will use for your property, you have to consider a few things first.
Frequency of use
If you are managing a property with multiple units, you can expect that your tenants will be coming in and out of their units on a day to day basis. Each time they will leave for work or school, they will surely lock their doors. And if they will stay inside the entire day, they might also do the same thing to avoid prying neighbors or uninvited guests from barging in.
To avoid locks from wearing out easily due to overuse, you should choose commercial grade locks that are not easily damaged and are rust-proof.
Type of property
There are different types of rental properties. Sometimes, when choosing locks, you have to consider which one is more efficient for the type of property you have.
The perfect example of this is if you own a vacation home. Since this type of property is often located on remote tourist spots, it might also be difficult for you to drive all the way there just to give the key to a guest.
In this case, an automatic and keyless locking system that you can remotely change the entry code for could be a better option. That way, when a guest would find the listing for your vacation home after you publish it to rental websites through Padleads, you can just give the code after they pay you online.
Security
Different kinds of locks provide different levels of security. Keypad locks have been on the rise lately because of the increased security it can offer compared to traditional locks.
Keypad locks are those that can be unlocked using a code. It’s one of the safest kinds of locks because you don’t have to worry about key loss, unauthorize duplication, and lock picking. It’s also easier to turn over a unit to new tenants because you simply need to change the code. However, this is a more expensive option.
Another keyless option that may be less expensive are locks that can be opened by scanning a keycard, just like the ones in hotels. The advantage of this is that tenants can’t create a duplicate of the keycards. However, tenants can still lose their keycards the same way they can lose keys.
Pro tip: Whatever lock you decide to use for your property based on your need and your budget, make sure that you have a Lock Policy on your lease agreement, which should state that tenants are not allowed to duplicate keys or change lock codes without your permission. It’s also not allowed to share keys to those who are not official occupants. You should also indicate the consequences of violating the lock policy and if they lose their keys.