Securing Your Sanctuary: The Importance of Hiring Bravo Locksmith for Changing Locks in a New Apartment For Better Security
Moving into a new apartment is an exciting milestone for people of all ages. However, with all of the anticipation of a fresh start, it’s essential to pay attention to the need for better security – most notably, changing the locks without with help of a reliable and helpful team of locksmiths at Bravo Locksmith could create several problems.
This article dives into why a lock change is imperative when settling into a new apartment, exploring various lock types suited for apartment security and the steps to take before the landlord or the tenant does a lock change.
We’ll also explore the choice between hiring a professional locksmith and a DIY approach, tips for enhancing overall apartment security, considerations for the associated costs, and the significance of emergency services for timely lock replacement.
Why It’s Important To Hire a Locksmith to Change The Locks When Renting a New Flat
When you change the locks of a newly rented apartment door, you do more than just get a new lock. Here are some reasons why you should always change the locks of your new apartment.
Security Concerns
Security is the primary reason to change locks and get a new key when moving into a new apartment. The uncertainty of who might possess copies of the existing keys to your front door poses a significant risk, especially when eviction proceedings happen or an unlawful detainer action is set in motion.
Previous tenants, landlords, maintenance personnel, or anyone who had access to the property before you moved in could have access that compromises the security of your new living space. Changing the locks and getting new keys ensures that you have exclusive control over who can access your apartment.
Unknown Number of Key Copies
Your key may have passed through several hands in a rental property over time. Previous tenants, friends, family members, or even the landlord or service providers could have copies of the keys. You must change the locks to be sure about the number of existing key copies, increasing the vulnerability of your apartment to unauthorized access.
Types of Locks Best Suited for Apartments
If you’re thinking of having your locks changed, here are some of the types of locks that will add extra security to your apartment
Deadbolts
Deadbolts offer robust security, providing resistance against forced entry, and are available in single, double, or even smart configurations, catering to different security needs. Professional installation of a deadbolt is recommended for optimal security.
Electronic Locks
Electronic locks offer keyless entry through codes or cards. Some models provide an audit trail, allowing tenants and the landlord to monitor access history. However, electronic locks may require batteries, necessitating periodic replacements.
Smart Lock Systems
Smart locks enable remote control via smartphones. Some models integrate with home automation systems. However, these systems must be compatible with your apartment’s existing infrastructure.
Steps to Take Before You Change Locks to Your Apartment
Although there is no concise answer, before landlords or tenants of an apartment complex change the locks without each other’s knowledge, it could pose some problems such as legal actions or losing the security deposit. Is it the landlord’s responsibility?
Can the tenant change the locks without any written notice? What are the legal and contractual aspects of the lease agreement with the property owner? Here are some of the critical steps to take before proceeding with a lock replacement:
Landlord’s permission
First and foremost, if you are the tenant, obtaining permission from your landlords or property managers is imperative. In most circumstances, most lease agreements typically outline specific terms and conditions regarding alterations or modifications to the property.
Tenants changing locks without the landlord’s permission will likely fall under this category. Both you and the landlord should communicate openly and transparently with the rental property management, ensuring that you comply with any stipulations outlined in the lease or rental agreement.
Communicate with The Landlords
Can a tenant change the locks without permission? Can a tenant change locks without any legal repercussions? Can tenants change locks under certain circumstances? The landlords or property managers must know if the tenant changes the locks or plans to change the locks, but also provide the landlord with a copy of the new apartment keys. This open communication fosters a transparent relationship between tenants and landlords and ensures everyone knows the implemented security measures.
Informing your landlords of your intention to change the locks is a courtesy and a responsible practice. A tenant changing a lock with the landlord in full knowledge makes them aware of the security measures underway and helps build a positive and transparent relationship. Tenants should share the details about the type of locks they plan to install and offer a copy of the updated key for their records. Property management may have specific requirements or guidelines for lock changes from tenants. Adhering to any building or lease requirements is crucial to avoid potential conflicts and ensure that the lock replacement process aligns with the property’s overall security standards.
Obtain the Lease Agreement
By seeking permission and adhering to building or lease requirements, tenants demonstrate respect for the property owner’s authority and mitigate the risk of violating the rental unit lease agreement and any state and local laws. The legal requirements around changing locks vary between State laws, and most states have specific guidelines for changing locks.
The laws can be confusing depending on the local law, state law, property ownership, and tenant responsibilities. Sometimes, you might need a court order for a tenant to be legally permitted to change the locks. Always check with your local government before changing a lock in your apartment building.
Hiring The Local Locksmith Team at Bravo Locksmith vs. a DIY Lock Change
Hiring a professional locksmith to change the locks for a new tenant is always recommended over doing the lock change yourself. A locksmith will get the landlord and the tenant’s permission and adhere to the strict guidelines set out by the lease agreement and the law.
More importantly – Can a landlord or tenant change the locks as well as a locksmith? It is highly unlikely unless tenants or landlords know what they’re doing. Let’s look at how a locksmith will do a much better job changing your apartment door locks. We’ll examine the pros and cons of both.
Hiring a Professional Locksmith to Change the Locks
Pros
- Expertise: Professional locksmiths possess the knowledge and skills to change the locks properly.
- Efficiency: Professionals can immediately provide a complete and thorough job with accuracy. A locksmith can also help with any emergency situations, such as break-ins or cutting a spare key. A locksmith also understands traditional locks as well as updated high-security locks.
Cons
- Cost: You have to pay to have a locksmith change the locks, and you may incur additional costs compared to a DIY approach.
- Scheduling: Availability may be subject to scheduling constraints.
DIY Approach: What to Expect if a Landlord or Tenant Changed Locks By Themselves
Pros
- Cost Savings: Installing new locks without hiring a locksmith company and doing the work yourself means saving money.
- Flexibility: You have control over when the tenants or the landlords change the lock.
Cons
- Skill Level: Lack of expertise from the tenant or the landlord may compromise the lock replacement’s effectiveness and the apartment’s safety.
- Time-Consuming: DIY projects may take longer to complete.
Enhancing Overall Apartment Security
If a landlord or tenant decides to change the locks, it will provide a level of security for the new apartment. However, there are some other things that landlords and tenants must consider to provide even more security.
Door Jammers
Door jammers are additional security devices that reinforce your apartment’s entry points. These devices are portable and can be easily installed to provide extra protection against a break-in.
Security Bars
When installed on sliding doors or windows, security bars are sturdy and deter unauthorized people who want to retain access. It’s a way for the landlord to enhance security by reinforcing vulnerable entry points.
Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras contribute to both deterrence and documentation of any suspicious activities. Visible cameras can discourage potential intruders, while hidden cameras provide discrete monitoring.
Cost Considerations and Budgeting For a Landlord or Tenant to Change the Locks
For a landlord or tenant to change the locks, different factors affect the cost, such as the type of lock and the complexity of the installation. Whether a professional locksmith is hired to change the locks or opt for a DIY approach from the landlord or the tenant, it’s advisable to budget for this essential security measure, considering it an investment at your own expense for the safety and peace of mind that comes with securing your living space.
Quick and Efficient Scheduled Maintenance and Emergency Services
Timely lock replacement is crucial for ensuring the security of your new apartment after the tenant moves. Quick action from the locksmith, tenant, and landlord minimizes the window of vulnerability and reduces the risk of unauthorized access during the transition period.
Opting for an emergency-service locksmith service ensures you can promptly address landlord and tenant security concerns. Emergency locksmiths are available around the clock to handle urgent situations such as lockouts. They offer rapid response times and can provide keys for newly installed locks or create a duplicate key where needed.
Lock Changes That Suit Both Tenants and Landlords
In conclusion, changing the locks when moving into a new apartment is fundamental in securing your living space. The uncertainty surrounding the number of existing key copies and the potential risks associated with unauthorized access call for proactive measures.
Enhancing apartment security for the tenants with additional measures from the landlords, like door jammers, security bars, and surveillance cameras, further fortifies your living space. Whether you hire a professional locksmith or embark on a DIY project, the goal remains: creating a safe and secure environment for your new chapter in your apartment.
