As a landlord in Burnaby or Vancouver, rekeying between tenants is one of the most important security steps you can take — for your property and your new tenants. Here's everything you need to know.
WHY REKEYING BETWEEN TENANTS IS CRITICAL
When a tenant moves out, you have no way of knowing how many copies of the keys exist — copies given to family members, partners, friends, contractors, or anyone else the tenant trusted. Any one of those people could walk back in. Rekeying immediately after a tenant vacates eliminates that risk entirely for your next tenant.
In BC, the Residential Tenancy Act doesn't explicitly mandate rekeying between tenants — but it does require landlords to provide a safe and secure premises. A property whose locks haven't been changed since a previous tenancy arguably doesn't meet that standard. Rekeying protects both you and your new tenant.
WHEN TO REKEY
The ideal timing: the day the previous tenant moves out and hands in all keys — before the new tenant takes possession. This ensures zero overlap in access. Never wait until after the new tenant moves in to rekey — the brief gap in key control is a real risk.
WHAT TO REKEY
- All exterior door locks (front, back, side entry)
- Any garage man-door if it connects to the interior
- Mailbox lock if applicable
- Basement suite separate entrances if applicable
- Storage lockers if you provide keyed access
Do not assume the previous tenant returned every key — rekey regardless of how many keys are handed back.
MULTI-UNIT EFFICIENCY
For landlords with multiple units, we offer same-visit rekeying packages for entire buildings. We can rekey 4, 6, 8, or more units in a single appointment — typically far more efficient and cost-effective than calling for individual unit rekeying. We also key-alike suites if you want one master key to access all units.
REKEYING VS REPLACING FOR RENTALS
For most rental turnovers, rekeying is the right choice — it's fast, affordable, and just as effective as replacement when hardware is in good condition. Replace only when the existing hardware is worn, damaged, or a security upgrade is desired.
SMART LOCKS FOR RENTAL PROPERTIES
Smart locks eliminate rekeying costs entirely between tenants. With a WiFi smart lock, you simply delete the previous tenant's access code and create a new one for the incoming tenant — no locksmith visit required. For Airbnb and short-term rentals, timed access codes are ideal. We install smart locks throughout Burnaby and Vancouver and can advise on the best model for rental properties.
WHAT CASPER LOCKSMITH OFFERS LANDLORDS
We provide priority scheduling for landlord rekeying, multi-unit package pricing, and flexible appointment times including weekends and evenings to minimize vacancy gaps. Call (236) 826-4633 to discuss your rental property needs.