Given that there are more than one kind of landlord properties, the decision as to what locks are the best to use depends upon numerous factors.

These include the kind of property – that is – is the property a single dwelling unit, a multi-family unit, a retail establishment, an office building with multiple tenants, a manufacturing facility, and so forth. The location of the property should also be taken into consideration as two other important facts: the premises demographics and the tenant demographics.

Another consideration as to what locks are the best for landlord properties is whether there is a general access area (exterior perimeter door) leading to multiple inner perimeter doors (apartment units, offices, and so forth). The best locks for landlord properties should be those which will deny and deter unauthorized entry into the property, and/or specific areas of the property, while at the same time keeping the costs at a reasonable amount.

The most important consideration for the property landlord is security liability, both for theft of goods and personal injury suffered by a tenant. Since most tenants do not give much thought, if any, to security, it behooves the property landlord to provide reasonable security for the rental properties.

It is not always necessary to install the best possible locks on landlord properties, but it is reasonable to install locks ranging from good quality to the best quality for each specific landlord property. Those locks will range from the basic mechanical lock to electronic/digital door locks. Landlord property managers and owners must be aware of the methods used to break into those premises. Lock bumping, a method by which almost 90% of today’s key locks van be opened, is a growing problem. Using exterior door locks which defy bumping goes a long way towards enhancing premises security.

Residential door high security key locks with individual serial numbers received at the time the locks were installed are more difficult to defeat since the key blanks are secured by the locksmith. Door locks with a key-in-knob overide increases the security of push-button door locks. Deadbolt locks with o 2″ throw and long screws to solidly fasten the door frame to the wall help prevent breaking the door lock and frame. A door lock security plate preventing attempts to force the lock latch adds another layer of security, all of which reduces costs by reducing landord security liability.