How to Choose the Right Locks for Your Rental Properties

The Benefits of Smart Locks for Rental Properties

• Convenience: Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys, which can be lost, stolen, or duplicated. Tenants can unlock their doors with a code, a fingerprint, a face scan, or a voice command. Landlords can also grant or revoke access to guests, contractors, or cleaners without having to be present or provide spare keys.
• Security: Smart locks can enhance the security of your rental properties by allowing you to monitor who enters and exits your units, and when. You can also set up alerts for suspicious activity, such as multiple failed attempts, tampering, or forced entry. Some smart locks can also automatically lock or unlock your doors based on your location, schedule, or preferences.
• Efficiency: Smart locks can help you save time and money by reducing the hassle of managing keys, changing locks, or hiring locksmiths. You can also integrate your smart locks with other smart devices, such as thermostats, lights, or cameras, to create a more efficient and comfortable living environment for your tenants.
• Attractiveness: Smart locks can make your rental properties more appealing and competitive in the market, as they offer a modern and convenient feature that many tenants look for. Smart locks can also increase the value and reputation of your properties, as they demonstrate your investment and care for your tenants’ security and comfort.

How to Choose the Right Locks for Different Types of Doors and Windows

• Cylinder door lock: This is the most common type of lock for exterior doors, such as front, back, or garage doors. It consists of a metal cylinder that houses a pin tumbler mechanism, which can be unlocked with a key. Cylinder door locks are easy to install and replace, and they offer a moderate level of security. However, they can be vulnerable to picking, bumping, or drilling, especially if they are low-quality or poorly maintained.
• Mortise lock cylinder: This is a type of cylinder door lock that is embedded into a rectangular cavity (or mortise) on the edge of the door. Mortise lock cylinders are more durable and secure than regular cylinder door locks, as they have a longer and thicker cylinder, a stronger bolt, and a more complex pin tumbler mechanism. They are also more versatile, as they can accommodate different types of handles, knobs, or levers. However, they are more expensive and difficult to install and replace, and they may not fit all types of doors.
• Double cylinder lock: This is a type of cylinder door lock that requires a key to unlock from both sides of the door. Double-cylinder locks are more secure than single-cylinder locks, as they prevent unauthorized entry or exit even if the door has a glass panel or a window nearby. However, they can also pose a safety hazard in case of an emergency, as they may prevent a quick escape. Therefore, they are not recommended for residential properties, and they may be prohibited by some local codes or regulations.
• Deadbolt lock: This is a type of lock that consists of a solid metal bolt that slides into a metal strike plate on the door frame. Deadbolt locks are usually installed as an additional layer of security on top of a cylinder door lock, as they provide a higher level of resistance to forced entry, picking, or drilling. However, they can also be used as standalone locks for interior doors, such as bedrooms or bathrooms. There are different types of deadbolt locks, such as single-cylinder, double-cylinder, or keyless.
• Lock pin types: These are the types of pins that are used in the pin tumbler mechanism of cylinder door locks. The pins are arranged in pairs, with one pin in the cylinder and one pin in the housing. When the correct key is inserted, the pins align at the shear line, allowing the cylinder to turn and the lock to open. There are different types of lock pin types, such as standard, spool, serrated, or mushroom, which vary in shape and difficulty to pick.
• Cabinet lock types: These are the types of locks that are used to secure cabinets, drawers, or other furniture. They are usually smaller and simpler than door locks, and they can be either keyed or keyless. Some of the most common cabinet lock types are cam locks, disc tumbler locks, plunger locks, or magnetic locks.
• Interior door lock types: These are the types of locks that are used for interior doors, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or closets. They are usually less secure and more convenient than exterior door locks, as they are meant to provide privacy rather than protection. Some of the most common interior door lock types are knob locks, lever locks, or push-button locks.

• Security level: How much security do you need for your doors and windows? Do you want to prevent unauthorized access, deter burglars, or comply with insurance requirements? Depending on your security needs, you may opt for more or less secure types of locks, such as deadbolts, cylinders, or smart locks.
• Budget: How much are you willing to spend on your locks? Do you want to invest in high-quality, durable, and reliable locks, or do you prefer cheaper, easier, and faster solutions? Depending on your budget, you may choose more or less expensive types of locks, such as mortise, cylinder, or cabinet locks.
• Convenience: How easy are your locks to use, install, maintain, or replace? Do you want to offer your tenants a hassle-free and comfortable experience, or do you want to save time and money on locksmith services? Depending on your convenience, you may prefer more or less user-friendly types of locks, such as smart locks, keyless locks, or knob locks.