Property Turnovers: The Complete Lock & Security Checklist

Property turnover is one of the most important times to evaluate a property's security. When a tenant moves out, property managers and landlords must consider more than cleaning and repairs—they also need to determine who may still have access to the property and whether locks, keys, and security hardware should be updated before the next resident moves in.

A structured lock and security checklist helps ensure nothing is overlooked. From rekeying exterior doors and accounting for every issued key to inspecting smart locks and testing emergency exits, taking a proactive approach can help protect residents, reduce liability, and prepare the property for a smooth transition.

Property managers, landlords, and real estate professionals rely on secure access throughout every stage of a property's lifecycle. KeyMe Locksmiths connects customers with experienced locksmith professionals who can assist with residential and commercial lock services, including rekeying, lock replacement, key duplication, smart lock support, and commercial hardware.

Available services may include:

• Lock rekeying
• Lock replacement
• Key duplication
• Master key system support
• Smart lock services
• Commercial door hardware
• Lock repair
• Emergency lockout assistance

KeyMe also offers online key copying for eligible key duplication and Car Key Vans at select retail locations for supported automotive key services.

"A property turnover isn't just about preparing a unit for its next occupant—it's about reestablishing control over who has access to the property. A thorough security review during every turnover helps property managers identify small issues before they become larger security concerns and creates a consistent process that can be repeated across every property in a portfolio." — KeyMe Locksmiths

Every tenant transition creates uncertainty about who may still possess working keys or access credentials.

Previous occupants may have shared keys with:

• Family members
• Roommates
• Housekeepers
• Contractors
• Dog walkers
• Maintenance personnel
• Friends or neighbors

While those copies may have been returned, property managers often cannot verify that every duplicate key has been accounted for.

A turnover provides an opportunity to evaluate whether existing access remains appropriate before a new resident moves in.

Rekey or Replace Exterior Door Locks

One of the first decisions is whether existing locks should be rekeyed or replaced.

Rekeying changes the lock's internal configuration so previous keys no longer work while allowing the existing hardware to remain in place.

Replacement may be appropriate when:

• Locks are damaged
• Hardware is outdated
• Security needs have changed
• New hardware is being installed
• Existing locks show excessive wear

Account for Every Issued Key

Review your property's key inventory.

Confirm the return of:

• Unit keys
• Mailbox keys
• Storage room keys
• Garage keys
• Gate keys
• Laundry room keys
• Utility room keys
• Clubhouse or amenity keys

If keys cannot be accounted for, evaluate whether rekeying is appropriate.

Test Every Lock

Open and close each door several times.

Check for:

• Sticky cylinders
• Loose hardware
• Misaligned latches
• Difficult deadbolts
• Keys that bind
• Damaged strike plates

Small mechanical issues often become larger maintenance problems if left unresolved.

Inspect Door Hardware

Security depends on more than the lock itself.

Inspect:

• Hinges
• Strike plates
• Door closers

Lever handles

• Deadbolts
• Door frames
• Weatherstripping

Loose or damaged hardware can affect both security and everyday operation.

Evaluate Smart Locks and Electronic Access

If the property uses electronic locks:

• Remove previous user codes.
• Delete inactive mobile credentials.
• Update administrator access.
• Test battery levels.
• Confirm remote management settings.
• Verify mechanical backup keys.

Every turnover should include a review of digital access permissions in addition to physical keys.

Review Master Key Access

For multifamily and commercial properties:

• Confirm current master key holders.
• Remove access for former employees.
• Audit maintenance key distribution.
• Update key control records.

Master key systems should be reviewed whenever staffing or management responsibilities change.

Inspect Common Area Security

Evaluate access points such as:

• Building entrances
• Mail rooms
• Package rooms
• Fitness centers
• Clubhouses
• Laundry facilities
• Storage areas
• Parking garages

Confirm that locks, readers, and door hardware operate properly.

Verify Emergency Exit Hardware

Emergency exits should function correctly while maintaining building security.

Inspect:

• Exit devices
• Panic bars
• Door closers
• Exit signage
• Latching hardware

Life safety hardware should always comply with applicable building and fire codes.

Replace Worn Keys

If keys supplied with the property show excessive wear, replace them before issuing them to new residents.

Worn keys may:

• Stick
• Break
• Fail to operate consistently
• Accelerate lock wear

Starting a lease with properly functioning keys helps avoid unnecessary maintenance requests.

Document Completed Security Work

Maintain records showing:

• Locks rekeyed
• Locks replaced
• Keys issued
• Access codes updated
• Smart lock changes
• Maintenance completed

Good documentation supports consistency across future turnovers.

While many turnover tasks are the same, priorities often differ.

Single-Family Homes

Managers may focus on:

• Exterior doors
• Garage access
• Gates
• Sheds
• Mailboxes
• Smart home devices

Apartment Communities

Additional considerations include:

• Master key systems
• Shared amenities
• Building entrances
• Controlled-access doors
• Common hallways
• Maintenance access

Larger properties typically require more coordination between leasing, maintenance, and management teams.

Routine inspections frequently uncover issues such as:

• Missing keys
• Loose deadbolts
• Misaligned strike plates
• Broken lock cylinders
• Weak smart lock batteries
• Damaged door frames
• Worn commercial hardware
• Incomplete key records

Addressing these issues before occupancy is often easier than responding after move-in.

Many professional property managers use written checklists to ensure every unit receives the same security review.

Standardization helps:

• Improve consistency
• Reduce missed items
• Simplify staff training
• Support maintenance documentation
• Improve resident readiness

Whether managing ten units or thousands, consistent procedures help maintain building security across an entire portfolio.

Every property turnover presents an opportunity to restore control over building access before welcoming a new resident. By following a consistent lock and security checklist, property managers can verify keys, inspect hardware, update access systems, and identify maintenance issues before they affect the next tenant.

Working with a trusted locksmith partner can further simplify this process by providing professional support for rekeying, lock replacement, commercial hardware, and ongoing security maintenance, helping ensure each property is ready for its next occupant.

• National Apartment Association (NAA). Property Management Resources. https://naahq.org/
• Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM). Property Management Best Practices. https://www.irem.org/
• Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). Consumer Resources. https://www.aloa.org/
• KeyMe Locksmiths service information for residential and commercial locksmith services, mobile key scanning, and Car Key Vans.