Top-Rated Smart Lock For Rental Properties: An Actionable Guide for Landlords

As a landlord, securing your rental properties is one of your highest priorities. Ensuring that your tenants have safe and convenient access to their homes, while maintaining control over who enters and exits, is crucial. Smart locks are becoming an increasingly popular solution for rental properties due to their ease of use, enhanced security features, and ability to simplify access management.

In this guide, we will explore the benefits of using smart locks for rental properties, key features to consider when choosing a smart lock, and a selection of the top-rated smart locks ideal for landlords.

Why Smart Locks Are Perfect for Rental Properties

Traditional locks and keys, while still common, are becoming outdated in the face of modern technology. Managing access for multiple tenants, service workers, or guests is a challenge for landlords. Smart locks solve this by offering remote, keyless entry and the ability to control access without physical keys. Here are some key benefits of using smart locks for rental properties:

1. Enhanced Security

Smart locks are often equipped with advanced encryption technology, which helps prevent unauthorized access. Many models offer tamper detection and instant alerts if there's any suspicious activity, ensuring you're always in control of the security of your property.

2. Convenient Keyless Entry

Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys, which can be lost, stolen, or duplicated. Tenants can enter their homes with a code, smartphone app, or even biometric recognition. This removes the hassle of managing keys, especially when handling multiple tenants or when transitioning between rentals.

3. Remote Access and Control

One of the biggest advantages of smart locks is the ability to control access remotely. As a landlord, you can lock or unlock the door for tenants, maintenance workers, or emergency personnel without being physically present. This is especially useful when you manage multiple properties or if you live far from your rental.

4. Temporary Access for Guests or Contractors

For short-term rentals, having the ability to provide temporary access codes to guests or service providers is invaluable. You can set expiration dates or time limits for each code, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter at the designated times.

5. Audit Trails and Activity Logs

Many smart locks come with built-in tracking and audit trail features, allowing you to monitor who enters the property and when. This feature is especially helpful for landlords who want to maintain transparency and security, as it provides a clear record of access.

6. Reduced Need for Physical Key Exchange

With traditional locks, landlords must arrange key handovers, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Smart locks allow for remote key distribution, eliminating the need for in-person exchanges and reducing the risk of lost or misplaced keys.

Key Features to Look for in a Smart Lock for Rental Properties

When selecting a smart lock for your rental property, there are several features you should consider to ensure that it meets your specific needs. Below is an actionable guide to help you understand the essential features of a smart lock:

1. Remote Access and Control

The ability to lock and unlock the door remotely is one of the most important features of a smart lock. This is especially useful for landlords who are managing multiple properties or need to grant access to maintenance workers or emergency personnel when they are not physically available.

Look for locks that allow you to control the lock via a smartphone app, web portal, or smart home assistant. Some models also offer integrations with platforms like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, making it easier to control access through voice commands.

2. Temporary and Customizable Access Codes

For rental properties, it is essential to be able to generate unique access codes for each tenant, guest, or service provider. These codes can be set to expire after a certain period, ensuring that access is restricted to the appropriate time frame.

Choose a smart lock that allows you to create and manage access codes remotely. You should be able to set up one-time or recurring codes for long-term tenants and temporary codes for short-term visitors, contractors, or cleaners.

3. Integration with Other Smart Systems

If your rental property already has other smart systems like security cameras, thermostats, or lights, it's beneficial to choose a smart lock that integrates with these devices. This will allow you to create a unified smart home ecosystem, enhancing both convenience and security.

For example, you can create routines that automatically turn off the lights or adjust the thermostat when the door is locked, or even trigger the security system when tenants lock their doors.

4. Weatherproof and Durable Design

Since rental properties may have both indoor and outdoor access points, ensure that the smart lock is designed to withstand weather conditions such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Look for locks that are certified as weather-resistant, especially for outdoor installations.

Also, make sure the lock is built to last, as durability is important for reducing maintenance costs in the long run.

5. Long Battery Life and Backup Options

Since rental properties may not always be occupied, it's important that the smart lock has a long battery life. A low battery could prevent the lock from functioning, which would be a serious security risk. Look for smart locks with a long-lasting battery and, ideally, a backup power option like a USB port to allow for emergency power when needed.

6. Ease of Installation

Some smart locks are designed for DIY installation, while others may require professional installation. Choose a smart lock that fits your budget and installation preference. DIY locks can save you money, but make sure that the installation process is straightforward and compatible with your door.

Top-Rated Smart Locks for Rental Properties

Here are some of the best smart locks for landlords looking to secure their rental properties with modern, efficient, and reliable technology.

1. August Smart Lock Pro + Connect

The August Smart Lock Pro + Connect is a top-tier option for landlords who want remote access control and an easy-to-use interface. This lock is designed to retrofit your existing deadbolt, meaning there's no need to replace your current hardware.

• Key Features:

  • Remote Access: Control the lock from anywhere using the August app.
  • Auto-Lock/Unlock: Automatically locks when you leave and unlocks when you arrive.
  • Temporary Access Codes: Create unique access codes for guests, contractors, or cleaning staff.
  • Integration: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
  • Easy Installation: No need to replace your current lock; just install the August Smart Lock on your existing deadbolt.

• Best For: Landlords who want an easy-to-install lock with remote access and integration with other smart home devices.

2. Schlage Encode Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt

The Schlage Encode is an excellent choice for landlords who want a smart lock with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, meaning it doesn't require a hub to function. The lock is simple to set up and allows for remote control without additional equipment.

• Key Features:

  • Wi-Fi Enabled: No hub required for operation.
  • Keypad Entry: Guests and tenants can use a customizable PIN code for entry.
  • Remote Control: Lock and unlock from anywhere using the Schlage Home app.
  • Audit Trail: View a log of who has entered the property.
  • Weather-Resistant: Built to withstand various outdoor conditions.

• Best For: Landlords who prefer a Wi-Fi-enabled lock with remote control and no need for additional hardware.

3. Yale Assure Lock SL

The Yale Assure Lock SL is a sleek and stylish smart lock that combines high-end features with modern design. It offers keyless entry, remote access, and a range of smart home integrations, making it perfect for tech-savvy landlords.

• Key Features:

  • Touchscreen Keypad: A sleek, touch-based keypad for secure entry.
  • Remote Access: Control the lock via the Yale app from anywhere.
  • Smart Home Integration: Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
  • Temporary Codes: Provide one-time or recurring codes for guests and service providers.
  • Voice Control: Use voice commands to lock and unlock the door via Alexa.

• Best For: Landlords seeking a stylish and highly functional smart lock with integration options.

4. Kwikset Halo Smart Lock

The Kwikset Halo is another great option for rental property owners. It offers a range of security features and works seamlessly with your existing Wi-Fi network, making it easy to control and monitor access.

• Key Features:

  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: No hub required.
  • Keypad Entry: Secure entry using customizable PIN codes.
  • Mobile App: Lock and unlock the door remotely via the Kwikset app.
  • Voice Control: Works with Alexa for hands-free control.
  • Audit Trail: Monitor who enters and exits with detailed activity logs.

• Best For: Landlords looking for a reliable Wi-Fi-connected lock with an intuitive app and voice control features.

Conclusion

Smart locks provide an efficient and secure way to manage access to rental properties. They offer keyless entry, remote control, and enhanced security features that can make managing your rental properties easier and safer. By choosing a smart lock that fits your needs---whether it's remote access, temporary codes for guests, or smart home integration---you'll streamline your property management processes and provide a better experience for your tenants.

The August Smart Lock Pro , Schlage Encode , Yale Assure Lock SL , and Kwikset Halo are all top-rated options that provide a combination of reliability, security, and convenience for landlords looking to upgrade their rental property security.