Texas deadbolts?

Question

I'm closing on my first rental property tomorrow. The first thing I want to do after closing, is change the locks. I've heard that in Texas, a rental must have a single sided deadbolt (where the deadbolt locks ONLY by means of an inside lever). Is this true when both a deadbolt and locking knob already exist? I ask because neither of the exterior doors currently have such a deadbolt and the property has been rented out for some time.

Thanks in advance!

Shawn Thom · Answer

From what I have read and understand, yes it does.  I have a house where the garage has been permanently enclosed and exterior garage doors no longer open, so i am not counting that one.  Other houses where garage doors can open I put the locks on.

Rick Reed · Answer

Thank you very much, Shawn.

I just closed and now I'm off to HD for new locks.

Rick Reed · Answer

I'm considering them after watching videos on the rekeying method. Thanks for the link as well! Very informative. Have you used Texas Rekey? I'm debating on whether I want to DIY or pay someone.

@Jean Bolger I think fire code actually has forced the requirement of a keyless deadbolt for that very reason. At least in TX.

Bryce Y. · Answer

What exactly constitutes an exterior door?  Is a door between the garage and house considered an exterior door?

Jean Bolger · Answer

Congratulations on your first deal, that's exciting!

Are you saying they already have keyed deadbolts? The deadbolts that require a key on both sides are more secure, but are a serious risk in case of fire or emergency. Imagine being inside with a fire and not being able to get to the key.

Shawn Thom · Answer

I'd also suggest getting kwickset smartkey  locks installed.

Shawn Thom · Answer

From what I understand, the requirement is for a keyless deadbolt.  The keyed one is irrelevant if you have a locking door knob.  Don't forget your peep hole too.  There is actually another device you can use instead of a keyless deadbolt.  They sell them at home depot but I can't remember their name off the top of my head.

Take a look at http://www.texaspropertycode.org/ .  There is a video on what is required.  It talks about them around the 5 minute mark.   I did install them on 1 property.  They are easy to install.

don't forget your smoke detectors too.

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Texas deadbolts?

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