Changing locks subsequent to a tenant’s departure is vital for several reasons, such as ensuring property security, protecting the privacy and safety of prospective tenants, preserving a reputable and professional property management approach, and reducing obligations for the property owner. As a result, a fresh set of keys is generated, instilling assurance and fostering a safe and secure living environment for both the property owner and the incoming tenants. Re-keying your rental property can reduce the likelihood of liability, leading to a secure and conscientious approach to property management.
Property Security
Whether or not your house is rented out, landlords should prioritize security. It is always possible that previous renters may have retained copies of the keys. The implementation of re-keying the property can effectively mitigate the aforementioned risk, thereby ensuring that access to the property is restricted to authorized persons only. Even momentarily vacant properties are susceptible to criminal mischief and burglary. To keep your property secure and prevent illicit, you must be able to regulate who has access to it and when. Re-keying your property’s exterior doors after a tenant moves out will help.
Renter Safety
Unreturned keys can pose significant problems for your future tenants. Renters want a sense of security in their rental properties. Nonetheless, if previous renters still have a key to the property, that feeling of security could be a dangerous illusion. If a previous occupant or somebody to whom they handed a key breaks in, you may be held liable for any damage or injury that occurs. Furthermore, the loss of trust from renters can potentially lead to canceled leases and costly turnover. Re-keying the locks is essential to ensure renter safety.
Increased Appeal
Although the cost of re-keying the locks between renters might turn you off, this can be utilized as a promotional feature for your property. If a prospective renter is concerned about security, you can reduce their concerns by ensuring that their locks have been re-keyed; thus, they may choose your property over similar rentals in the area. If you can increase demand for your property in this way, you can charge a slightly higher rent and easily recoup the cost of having the locks re-keyed.
Hire a Professional
It is possible for individuals to re-key the locks on their rental property themselves, based on their mechanical proficiency. It is not hard, but it does require some knowledge. Also, re-keying the locks is more cost-effective than purchasing a new lock, knob, or deadbolt.
However, you might consider hiring a professional to do it for you to guarantee the accuracy and efficacy of the process. A professional locksmith can finish the job more quickly and with better assurance that the re-key was done correctly. The paramount aspect is the accurate completion of the task, coupled with the provision of an entirely fresh set of keys to furnish to your new tenant.
Alternatives to Re-Keying
Today’s landlords are exploring alternative approaches to safeguard their property and renters. Certain landlords perceive the installation of an electronic keypad or smart key solution to be more cost-effective than re-keying the locks each time a renter moves out. The installation of a keyless entry system that operates on a code-based process instead of a physical key has the potential to eliminate the need for re-keying your house. Modern keyless entry systems have the option to necessitate a smartphone app to unlock. Despite the higher initial cost, one benefit is that you can rapidly change the key code or smart key tool on your own. A keyless entry system could result in significant savings over time.
Property owners may encounter emotional stress when renters vacate the premises. Why not consider delegating the task to the experts in Real Property Management Regions? The process of vacating poses no difficulty for our local property managers. They can assist you in finding a fantastic prospective renter. For more information, contact us online or call us at (804) 491-3348.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
