Updating post from Reddit.
Hi. I recently called a locksmith to change the keys to the main door as the lock was starting to seize up according to the tenants. The spare keys are all with the tenants. Is it okay that I don’t have a spare key to my property? They have been living there for past 4 years so it’s not like they’re new tenants and there is an annual checkup done by the management company.
Aren't tenants within their rights to change the locks, as long as they put the original ones back at the end of their tenancy? Pretty sure they are, and if they are then the landlord wouldn't have a copy.
Correct. Unless the tenancy agreement states otherwise.
Even if it does, it's a legal right and that overrides the contract
There is no statutory right that overrides a tenancy agreement. Further if damage occurs because of a landlords inability to access the property as required under the tenancy agreement, then the tenant is liable for the damage. Hope you have insurance.!
The law overrides contracts!
If I sign a contract that says you can pay me less than minimum wage, you still have to pay me minimum wage. It's no different.
There is no statutory right to change locks. As such the matters can be set out in the tenancy agreement.
There is a statutory right to a min wages, a contract can’t remove those rights.
Incorrect. A tenant can change the locks regardless of what it says in the tenancy agreement as long as they put the lock back before they move out. Hope this helps!
Well I guess when the landlord gives their 24 hours notice the tenants can either change the lock back or tell the landlord to knock and wait as the key won’t work.
Legally, as long as at the end of the tenancy you have one it’s fine.
Long tenants - just ask them, do you mind if I have a spare key incase you get locked out or something I can get a copy made.
This ❤️
Locksmith should have provided you one to avoid the faff.
These comments are crazy. No you shouldn't have a spare key as the tenants have exclusive access to the property.
There isn't a situation where you need a key AT ALL. If it's an 'emergency' you phone the emergency services.
…you know the answer - “is it okay that I don’t have a key to my property” - no it’s not.
Definitely get hold of one should you need access in an emergency or something (even if tenants are brilliant)
Of course it is. Tenants can legally change the locks and he wouldn’t have one then either. As long as all keys are returned at the end of the tenancy, it’s all good. I recently had my entire front door replaced, I was given all the keys, my landlord doesn’t have one.
Yeah that’s a fair point! My bad
That's the tenants' or your insurance's problem. Why would a landlord need a key?
Tenants can easily change the locks to their home and the landlord won't have a copy of the new keys.
There's no need for the landlord to have a set of keys while it is tenanted.
No, it’s definitely not ok. It’s still your place!
Cobblers! It's fine.
Technically it's not and legally tenants can change the locks to ensure quiet enjoyment.
We have never faced this issue in 15 years - long term client in property 1 direct always home and compliant with trades etc. And i gave her my ley when her teens needed their own. Property 2 with agency they have a key for trades none of the last 4 tenant over 8 years have had an issue. We have a key but only use it in void periods and I've actually no idea where it is right now.
It's the landlords property, not their home.
So long as they have a copy when the tenants leave then it's absolutely fine.
Why would the landlord need a key?
Electrics, Gas certificate, council inspection, LL inspections, estate agents, repairs, services, assuming the tenant is unavailable as they work during the day and have given permission .
Then just ask them for their key? Seems like excuses tbh
I self manage and I access the property if the tenants aren’t able to be present during boiler service etc; saves them having to alter their day, book time off work and so on.
To let trades in to make repairs if the tenant is unavailable and agrees to this in advance.
No. It isn't. The tenant is paying for exclusive access.