Can I change locks after lease ends?

California is one of the states that does allow tenants to change the locks and not share keys with their landlords. Unless your lease states otherwise, a tenant does have the right to rekey their locks. Even if they do not, it is illegal to lock them out of the property.

What happens if a tenant does not return keys?

Return the keys If you fail to return your keys by the specified date, your landlord or letting agent may deduct the cost of replacing the locks from your deposit.

What happens if a key is not returned real estate?

Return of the keys At the end of the tenancy, your tenant is responsible for returning all sets of keys provided to them. If they don’t return the keys, you can hold them responsible for the cost of changing the locks or charge them rent until the keys are returned.

Can the landlord keep a set of keys?

Did you know for instance, that it is illegal for the Landlord to hold a set of keys to the property? You can hold a set of keys if you get the tenant to sign an agreement to that effect and attach it to the tenancy agreement. That is the only legal way to hold keys.”

What happens if a key is not returned to the key register?

If keys are not returned at the end of the tenancy, locks will be changed and the costs charged to the client. Housing Plus will only replace locks on vacant properties if an issue has been identified by the branch Tenancy Officer and confirmed in writing.

Can I change the locks if my tenant has left?

Your tenant is probably long gone by now. However, you should contact them to let them know that you’re going to change the locks. Make it clear that if they return prior to the official end of their tenancy, you’ll give them a key so they can enter the home; but it must be returned on the day their lease is officially over.

Can changing the locks be deducted from a security deposit?

, Commercial Leasing Agent No. Changing the locks is not a “damage” that can be deducted from a security deposit, except if the lock had actually been damaged, or the lock was changed by the tenant and the landlord does not have a key.

When to give a tenant a key at the end of lease?

Make it clear that if they return prior to the official end of their tenancy, you’ll give them a key so they can enter the home; but it must be returned on the day their lease is officially over. Also notify them if you plan to do any of the following: You’re charging them for the lock change.

When does a landlord have to return a security deposit?

When a tenant moves into a rental property, he or she will pay the landlord a security deposit in addition to first month’s rent. This deposit will be returned to the tenant at the end of the lease term, as long as the tenant follows all the terms of the lease agreement.