How to Secure a Rental Property Without Violating Tenant Rights in Phoenix
As a landlord, your goal is to keep your rental property secure—but when a tenant is living there, you also have to respect their legal rights and privacy. In Phoenix, improving lock security or gaining access to a rental unit isn’t just a matter of safety—it’s a legal responsibility.
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we work with landlords across the Valley to help upgrade locks and improve safety while staying compliant with Arizona landlord-tenant laws. Here’s what you need to know.
Need help securing your rental the right way? Talk to our Phoenix locksmiths
Can a Landlord Change the Locks?
In Arizona, you cannot change a tenant’s locks without notice or a legal reason, such as eviction with a court order. Doing so can be considered an illegal lockout, which can lead to legal consequences.
You may rekey or change locks: After a tenant moves out
Between renters
When given legal access through an eviction order
In an emergency (e.g., a break-in or urgent safety issue)
Tenants also have the right to request a lock change in cases involving safety concerns, such as domestic violence. Landlords are required to accommodate this within a reasonable timeframe.
How to Upgrade Rental Property Security (Legally)
Rekey locks between tenants
This is standard practice and protects future renters while reducing your liability. We recommend rekeying every time a lease ends—even if the tenant returns their keys.
Install high-security locks or deadbolts
You can upgrade locks to ANSI Grade 1 or 2 hardware before a tenant moves in. Be sure to provide them with keys and documentation.
Add smart locks for short-term rentals
If you manage an Airbnb or furnished short-term rental, smart locks give you complete control and eliminate the risk of missing keys.
Maintain emergency access
Keep one spare key or access code to respond to emergencies, inspections, or maintenance needs—just make sure to provide proper notice (at least 2 days in most non-emergency cases).
Avoid key duplication without authorization
Don’t give out tenant keys to contractors or others without consent. This can be a legal and trust violation.
Recommended Lock Types for Rentals
Kwikset SmartKey
Easy rekeying between tenants without changing hardware
Schlage Encode
Great for landlords with smart lock systems or remote access
Yale Assure
Keypad entry for temporary guests and service providers
Heavy-duty deadbolts
Increase door security without affecting tenant convenience
What to Do If a Tenant Changes the Locks
Tenants may request or install their own locks with your permission. If they change locks without approval, Arizona law requires them to provide you with a key for emergency access.
If they refuse or you suspect an unauthorized lock change, document the issue and address it with proper notice or legal steps—never force entry unless there’s a true emergency.
We Help Phoenix Landlords Stay Secure and Compliant
We’ve assisted rental property owners across: Arcadia
Ahwatukee
Maryvale
Camelback East
Downtown Phoenix
Biltmore
South and North Phoenix
Whether you’re managing a single-family home or multiple doors, we’ll ensure your locks are secure and your processes follow Arizona law.
Secure Your Rental Property the Smart and Legal Way
Lock security doesn’t have to be complicated—but it should always be done right. Rekey between tenants, upgrade where needed, and always communicate with renters to stay on the right side of the law.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
Call Today: (602) 854-2766
https://www.affordablesecurityphoenix.com
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