PROBLEM
For rental properties, a common problem is making sure that access to the property is restricted to only the intended occupants. The check point most common encountered is when a resident moves out and a new resident moves in. To solve this problem there are two solutions.
SOLUTIONS
- Option 1: One solution is to rekey the existing locks. For this option you’ll most likely need a locksmith as most handymen don’t have the skillset to change the pins in the cylinders to rekey. While there is no material cost with this option, locksmiths tend to charge higher rates as it’s a specialized trade.
- Option 2: A second solution is to change the locks to ones that can be rekeyed without the need of a locksmith. Most handymen have the skillset to install new locks therefore pricing for this option is the labor costs of a handyman (varies by vendor) plus the material cost of the locks themselves. The product we recommend is SmartKey by Kwikset as this type of lock can be rekeyed time and time again by your average individual. The following two videos will give you an overview of the product as well as how to rekey the locks.
HOW TO REKEY YOUR LOCK
COMMON DOORS
Any door that provides access into the property usually carries a lock. While properties may be different, the following are the most common doors that will need locks installed: front door, back door, door from home into garage, door from garage to exterior, security door, exterior gate, exterior closet and balcony door.
TYPES OF LOCKS & COSTS
These locks can be found at your local Home Depot. The pricing here is as of the last time we pulled the information from Home Depot’s webpage and can be subject to change. Click the following links to view the locks at Home Depot.
- Front Door $139
- Deadbolt & Entry Doorknob $57
- Entry Doorknob $32
REKEYING & KEYS
We include the rekeying of SmartKey Kwikset locks along with making as many additional key copies as needed as part of our property management services.
