Should a landlord change locks for new tenants?

Landlords have various tasks and responsibilities to ensure a smooth, fast and reliable transition from one tenancy to another. But should a landlord change locks for new tenants? It’s an important consideration for landlords during a busy period.

This guide will explore the legal requirements and offer landlords some practical advice on the topic so you can make an informed decision. So, do landlords have to change the locks between the tenants by law? Let’s find out.

Should a landlord change locks for new tenants? 

There is no legal requirement for landlords to change the locks between tenants. However, this doesn’t mean that landlords shouldn’t consider changing the locks on the property. One of the responsibilities of a landlord is to keep their tenants safe. 

Why should a landlord change the locks for new tenants?

Although landlords are not legally obligated to change the locks, there are plenty of reasons why they should consider doing so. 

• Enhanced security: The old tenants may have made copies of the keys and passed them on to others. Changing the locks means only the new tenants and the landlord can access the property.
• Peace of mind: A new lock system will make the landlord and tenant feel at ease, as they will know nobody else has access to their home.
• Preventing liability: If a break-in does happen and the burglars use an old copied key, the landlord could be held responsible.
• Increasing the appeal of the property: Landlords will want to limit the void period as much as possible to ensure rental income continues. Advertising the lock change to new tenants could make that property stand out compared to others.

If a landlord decides to change the locks for new tenants, they should hire a professional locksmith to do the work. The change should be documented, and the new tenants should be informed of the changes made to the property.

Why a landlord might not want to change the locks

Landlords should avoid changing the locks at a property to keep costs down during the void period. Owners will not get rental income between tenants, but might still have outgoings such as mortgage payments and utility bills. 

Landlords might already have a robust key tracking system in place and know the whereabouts of all key copies. Physical lock changes might not be required if the property has modern keyless entry systems.

Landlords don’t have to change the locks between tenants, but they might want to consider additional measures to ensure tenant security. This could include checking window locks, installing security lights and updating the alarm systems at the property.

Practical tips for a smooth tenancy transition

Being between tenancies can be a busy time for landlords as they look to wrap up the old tenancy and begin a pathway for new tenants. There are lots of tasks to complete before getting the new tenants into the property. If you’re unsure, these actions could help the landlord answer the key question: should a landlord change locks for new tenants in their specific example?

Landlords should complete a thorough check-out inspection of the property. They should check for any damage to the property’s walls, ceiling, windows, garden, etc. They need to ensure all appliances are functioning as they should be. Check plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, and any other appliances.

The landlord should record the findings of the inspection. This has many benefits, but it could indicate how trustworthy the previous tenant is. While it cannot be guaranteed, positive signs could indicate that landlords don’t have to change the locks between tenants in their specific example. An inventory list can also help locate keys to give the landlord peace of mind.

Changing the locks?

So, should a landlord change locks for new tenants? While UK law doesn’t mandate it, changing locks between tenancies is often recommended to enhance security, build tenant trust, and protect your property. The practical benefits make it a worthwhile consideration. 

Landlords can ensure a smooth and secure tenancy transition by combining lock changes with other security measures, clear communication, and thorough inspections. Consider landlord insurance to give further protection and peace of mind during your next tenancy.

Managing a rental property comes with many responsibilities, and unexpected issues can arise. To safeguard your investment and simplify the process, landlord insurance is a smart choice. Contact us at 01788 818 670 today to compare landlord insurance quotes, or get a quote online to find the right coverage for your needs.