Property owner cannot keep an extra set of keys per the PM contract

[Janice R.]

Hello all,

I have been self managing my investment properties for many years successfully for years.   I respect the tenants their privacy and I have never "show up".  The one time I needed to get into the property quickly was at the tenant's request.  So, I'm not a pesky landlord.

Recently, in looking in to property management, I found out that the owner is not allowed to have a key to the property.  Is this the usual requirement?  The owner has the ultimate responsibility of the property - the PM is just an agent.  Not having keys on my property is nutty (in my opinion).  

What's your experience?

Thanks, Janice R.