You’ve just moved into a new rental flat, and the keys you received feel like they’ve passed through too many hands. You ask yourself: Should the locks have been changed before you arrived? Is it safe? And more importantly, if you decide to change them, can you claim the cost? Understanding what’s allowed and what can be claimed when it comes to lock changes is something many tenants only think about when it’s already too late. However, a little knowledge can go a long way in keeping you safe and avoiding unnecessary arguments with your landlord.
When Can You Claim for a Lock Change in a Rental Flat?
Let’s say you arrive home one evening, insert your key into the door, and nothing happens. The lock is stuck. After calling the landlord and getting no answer, you contact a locksmith. If the lock is old or clearly faulty, this kind of situation is one where a tenant might be able to claim back the money spent on fixing the issue. Claims are usually possible when the landlord has failed to act or if the issue poses a risk to your safety. But not every lock change is treated the same. If your claim is based on a real, documentable issue, like a damaged or jammed lock, you’re on firmer ground.
There are plenty of everyday reasons that make people change the locks in their rental homes. The article “How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Locks” gives several examples, and they reflect what many tenants experience. After a break-in or even an attempted one, tenants often feel uneasy. The thought that someone might still have access is hard to shake off. Then there’s the classic case of lost or stolen keys, something that can happen on a busy day in the city when you’re juggling bags, kids, or a phone call. Sometimes locks just stop working as they should. They get worn out, start sticking, or fail to catch. Upgrading to a more secure system or even switching to a smart lock might feel like the safest choice, especially if you live alone or in a high-traffic area. In all these cases, a lock change isn’t just a convenience—it becomes a safety measure.
Who Pays for Lock Changes: Tenant or Landlord?
The answer often depends on why the lock was changed. If the lock stopped working because of wear or poor installation, the landlord should typically cover the cost. On the other hand, if you locked yourself out or wanted to change the locks just for peace of mind, that might be your expense. Take this example: someone loses their keys after a night out and can’t get back in. They call a locksmith and change the lock. That kind of situation usually isn’t something you can claim unless your lease has clear terms stating otherwise.
Across the United States, tenant protection laws can vary, but the general idea is the same: tenants deserve to feel safe in their homes. In many states, landlords are expected to ensure that locks are functional and secure. In some places, such as Illinois or Texas, landlords are even required to rekey or change locks between tenants. What they can’t do is change the locks during a dispute or to try and force someone to move out. That’s considered illegal, and tenants have the right to take action if it happens.
If you’re trying to claim a lock change, the best approach is to keep a paper trail. Let’s say your front door lock has been sticking for weeks and you’ve told the landlord twice, but they haven’t responded. You then hire a locksmith to fix it. Taking photos of the broken lock, keeping the locksmith’s invoice, and saving copies of your messages to the landlord can all help show that you didn’t act impulsively—you acted out of need.
Landlord Refused to Change Locks – What Next?
In real life, it’s not uncommon for landlords to delay or ignore requests that seem minor to them but matter a lot to you. If your landlord refuses to change a lock that’s clearly faulty or outdated, you don’t have to give up. Start by explaining why the change is important and back it up with any evidence you have. If that doesn’t work, you can speak to a local tenant support service or housing authority. They’re used to dealing with these kinds of problems and can often help find a solution.
Losing your keys is frustrating, but it happens to almost everyone at some point. Imagine you come home after a trip and realize your keys aren’t in your bag. After checking everywhere, you give up and call a locksmith to get inside and change the lock. If the landlord has a spare, it’s best to call them first, but if it’s late at night or you feel unsafe, calling a locksmith is understandable. Just be prepared that the cost might be yours to carry unless the lease says otherwise.
This depends on your lease and the urgency of the situation. If it’s an emergency and you can’t get in, you’re allowed to act. A good example is when your lock completely fails and you’re stuck outside with no way in. You can call a locksmith, get the lock fixed, and then inform the landlord. Make sure to hand over a copy of the new key. In calmer situations, it’s always better to check with your landlord first.
Locksmith Services You Can Legally Claim For
If your landlord knew about the problem but didn’t fix it, and you had to hire a locksmith to stay safe or secure the property, you may be able to claim that money back. One tenant in Michigan had asked for a faulty front lock to be replaced for months. After a neighbor’s apartment was broken into, she hired a locksmith herself. She later claimed the cost by showing proof of her earlier requests and the locksmith’s report.
Let’s say your lock breaks at night and your landlord is unreachable. You call a locksmith, fix the issue, and keep the receipt. If the emergency was caused by a faulty lock, not your own actions, the cost might be refundable. On the other hand, if you locked yourself out, that’s usually not something your landlord will pay for. Each case is a little different, and your lease may offer guidance.
There are rare moments when safety overrides policy. If a tenant is in danger or the landlord is uncooperative in a security matter, hiring a locksmith can be the only option left. Security expert and locksmith Robert Valdez, based in Los Angeles, says, “Tenants shouldn’t wait until they feel unsafe. If there’s a threat or a security failure, acting quickly is the right choice—even if the paperwork has to catch up later.”
Tips for Tenants Dealing with Lock Problems
The best approach is always communication. Let your landlord know early if the lock feels weak or if there are any concerns about who has access to your flat. Keep a record of your messages and try to speak in person if possible. That way, if problems do come up later, you’re not starting from scratch.
Most arguments over locks can be avoided with a little planning. Talk about locks during the move-in process. Ask when they were last changed and what to do if they fail. Make sure your lease mentions who is responsible for replacements or locksmiths. A short conversation in the beginning can save everyone a lot of stress down the line.
Final words
Changing locks in a rental flat is something that might not cross your mind—until it suddenly becomes the most urgent issue in your day. Whether it’s lost keys, faulty hardware, or a safety concern, knowing what you can do and what you can claim helps keep your home secure and your relationship with your landlord smooth. Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t be afraid to speak up when something doesn’t feel right.