Every time a tenant moves out, landlords face decisions about repairs, cleaning, and key handoff. One step that should never be skipped is rekeying the locks. This simple service changes the internal pins in the lock so that old keys no longer work.
Rekeying after tenant turnover is essential for property owners in Glendale. It limits unauthorized access, protects new tenants, and helps landlords maintain control of the property.
Old Tenants May Still Have Access
Even if keys are returned, former tenants may have made copies. Shared living situations, lost keys, or forgotten spares increase the chance that someone else can still enter.
Once a tenant leaves, you cannot assume all copies have been recovered. Friends, family, or past roommates may have access without your knowledge. Rekeying locks ensures that only you and the new tenant have working keys.
Rekeying Is Faster and More Affordable Than Replacing
Some landlords consider changing the entire lock, but this costs more and takes longer. Rekeying, on the other hand, provides the same security outcome by altering the key combination inside the existing lock.
In most cases, a locksmith removes the lock cylinder, replaces the pins, and tests the new key. The result is a working lock that accepts only the new key, without changing the entire lock body or hardware.
This service is invaluable in Glendale, where multi-unit buildings often use matching hardware for appearance or function. Rekeying keeps the style consistent while updating access.
New Tenants Expect Secure Entry
New tenants want to feel safe in their new home. Handing over old keys without rekeying can cause concern. It suggests the property may not be fully secure or that others could still enter.
Landlords provide peace of mind by rekeying the locks. This step also shows that they take the tenant’s safety seriously and maintain the property responsibly.
Happy tenants are more likely to renew leases, pay on time, and treat the home with care. Rekeying supports that relationship from the beginning.
Rekeying Helps Property Owners Stay in Control
Every rental should have a clear key control process. Keeping track of keys, codes, and who has access helps protect your investment.
Rekeying after each move-out resets access and prevents key buildup. It also avoids situations where multiple tenants share the same key pattern over time.
Strong key control can help landlords:
- Respond to lockouts with confidence
- Reduce liability from unauthorized entry
- Simplify management of service workers
- Ensure legal compliance with local housing standards
In Glendale, many rental units share entry points or external gates. Rekeying ensures that only current residents can open shared access doors or storage spaces.
Rekeying Can Uncover Lock Issues
During the rekeying process, locksmiths often find worn parts, weak mechanisms, or outdated hardware. Identifying these issues early prevents lock failures and future access problems.
If the cylinder or latch shows damage, the locksmith can recommend replacement before the issue becomes urgent. This improves the long-term function of the door and saves money on emergency repairs.
In older Glendale buildings, locks may not meet modern standards. Rekeying allows owners to assess and upgrade if needed.
When and How to Schedule Rekeying
The best time to rekey is immediately after a tenant moves out and before showing the property. This avoids giving access to anyone outside your control.
Work with a licensed locksmith who offers mobile service. They can rekey multiple locks at once and provide matching keys. Many landlords choose to rekey:
- Main entry doors
- Patio and balcony doors
- Storage unit locks
- Garage door side entries
Some also request master key systems that allow one key to open all units while tenants keep individual access.
Real Situations in Glendale
A landlord managing a duplex near Adams Hill rekeyed both units after one tenant moved out and another requested added safety. The locksmith updated the cylinders and provided new keys within an hour.
An apartment manager on Brand Boulevard discovered that a former tenant had made copies for friends. After rekeying every unit, they added a key tracking policy, and now, they rekey regularly after every turnover.
Another owner in Citrus Grove uses rekeying to prepare short-term rentals between guests. They reset the locks and confirm that no duplicate keys remain in circulation.
Keep Your Property Secure and Turnovers Simple
Rekeying locks is a basic but important part of rental property management. It protects your property, respects your tenants, and lowers the chance of unauthorized access.
If you manage rentals in Glendale and haven’t rekeyed after a move-out, now is the time. Schedule rekeying before the next tenant moves in. It’s a simple step with long-term benefits.
West Coast Locksmith serves Glendale landlords with professional rekeying services. We rekey homes, apartments, and shared buildings with attention to detail and on-site convenience. Keep control of your keys and give your tenants the expected secure start.
