Tenant changes dead-bolt lock...

[John Lampertius]

Hello All,

I have a current tenant who changed the dead-bolt lock without my permission.  I found this out last weekend when cleaning out an extra storage area in the (condo) basement.

I am planning to sell the place and he has yet to get me the "spare" key...so I won't be able to show it until I get the key.  He has also stated he does not want anyone in the unit.

My lease states that I can enter/view/show/repair the unit with reasonable notice (typically 24 hours), but sooner if time is critical.

I've been a landlord/investor for over 25 years and have never had to evict a tenant.  What is the first typical action you've done or heard of by others in handling a situation like this?

Thanks and have a great day!

Cheers,

John

[Peter MacKercher]

@John Lampertius Since that's not something the tenant should've done in the first place, I'd be nice at first to try and set up a time to get the spare key. If they don't follow through with that meeting I'd give whatever is proper notice in your state that I'll be changing the lock (hoping that they'll follow up and save me the expense/time -- I doubt you'll need to actually give notice for this).

The next step would be to drill the lock, get the cylinder re-keyed, get the spares, put them in a lockbox at the unit and text/email the tenant the lockbox code. I'd bill the tenant back for all expenses since you've tried to remedy the situation without incurring any cost until that point. That's a pretty simple solution that avoids any need for eviction. 

As your lease states that you have the right of re-entry and gives the timeframe for that, then follow the lease, plain and simple. Follow through with your showings after complying with the letter of the lease - you both signed the same agreement.