The short answer
The handover between tenants is the easiest time to sort out a property's locks and keys: count what comes back, decide whether to rekey so the old keys stop working, and test every lock while the place is empty. A lock that sticks or won't latch needs a repair or a replacement, not a rekey. The incoming tenant must receive at least one set of keys or devices for the home's locks.
Key points
- Confirm the tenancy has ended and you have the owner's authority before booking lock work.
- Count every key, fob and remote against the handover record.
- Consider rekeying when keys were not returned or nobody is sure who holds copies.
- Test every lock and window security device while the property is empty.
- Check that a locked meter box or gate is not blocking utility access.
- In strata buildings, refer common-property lock work to the strata manager first.
The handover between tenants is the best time to sort out a property's locks and keys. The property is empty, you can get to every door, and there is a clear point where the old keys should stop working.
This checklist covers the lock and key side of that handover.
1. Confirm timing and authority
Before booking any lock work:
- Confirm the tenancy has ended and the property has been handed back.
- Confirm you have authority from the owner to arrange the work.
2. Count keys and access devices
Count everything the outgoing tenant returns against the handover record:
- Keys to every lock: front, back and side doors, screen doors, garage, sheds, windows, letterbox and gates
- Fobs, remotes and any other access devices
- Anything listed on the record that was not returned
3. Decide whether to rekey
Not every changeover needs a rekey. Consider it when:
- Keys or devices were not returned
- There is uncertainty about who holds copies, for example keys were cut during the tenancy
- The owner wants certainty about who holds a key
Rekeying changes which keys work in the existing locks. Keys from the previous tenant, and any copies they made, stop working, and the hardware stays on the door. Our article on rekeying or replacing locks explains the difference.
4. Check every lock and security device works
An empty property is the easiest time to test each lock properly. For each door, check that:
- The key turns smoothly
- The lock latches and holds when the door is closed
- Deadlocks lock and unlock as they should
For windows, check each window's security device works and record keys where fitted.
A lock that sticks or will not latch will not be fixed by rekeying. It needs a repair or a replacement, and it is better to find out now than in the new tenant's first week.
5. Check meter access
Check whether a locked meter box or gate blocks utility access. If it does, confirm the approved lock for that meter or access route. Our article on WAS locks explains when one is needed.
6. Hand over keys and devices to the new tenant
The incoming tenant must receive at least one set of the keys or devices needed to operate the home's locks and security devices. Before they move in:
- Decide how many sets the tenant gets, and how many the agency and owner keep.
- Record the number and type of keys and devices handed over.
7. Check the current rules
Minimum security requirements for rental homes in Western Australia, including what counts as a compliant window security device, are set out by Consumer Protection WA. Check the current requirements before the new tenancy starts.
8. Strata: separate unit locks from common property
In a strata building, locks to an individual unit and locks on common property are handled differently. Refer any common-area work to the strata manager or their authorised representative before booking.
Two mechanical key systems help strata buildings manage access:
- A master key system controls who can open which doors. A manager can open several doors while each resident opens only their own.
- A restricted key system controls who can authorise copies, so extra keys cannot be cut without approval.
If a key goes missing in a building with a key system, the right response depends on what that key opens. Our page on master and restricted key systems explains more.
Working with Portside
Portside works with strata companies, real estate agencies and property managers across Fremantle and the southern suburbs. Send us the address, the list of doors, how many keys you need and any common-area approvals, and we will confirm the scope and the price before any work starts.
