Smart Locks?

Question

Hello, one of my projects is student rental condos. I am thinking about having smart locks put in. I have been looking at this one, http://www.kwikset.com/kevo because it appears to be the best on the market right now.

Has anyone tried this? Or does anyone already do this?

I have a cleaning service that comes monthly, I'd like for them to call me so I can remote unlock, and also if any maintenance is needed, same thing...

Anyway, I'm just looking for some general comments on smart locks.

Thanks!

Jeff B. · Answer

WiFi access to locks is blatantly insecure.  Do some reading on the internet of things (iOT).  Careless install configurations and bad codes allow a knowledgeable techie to hack this stuff in a few minutes without a trace.

Security has to be physical to be of any value, so go for the master key scheme where it is held in a lock box with a combination - - change the combo every year.

Waylon Bruce Moore · Answer

Alex, Do your smart locks connect to a pms or third party software so you can change the lock codes automatically?

Joe Splitrock · Answer

I have not heard of landlordlocks.com but I checked them out and they sell the Kwikset UltraMax lock which is Grade 2 (Grade 1 is best) and was picked in about 30 seconds on a Youtube video. They do cost less than the Kwikset Smartkey, which is Grade 1. Of course there are other way more expensive options that are harder to pick, so this really a cost/benefit analysis.

Joe Splitrock · Answer

@Matthew Eakins to be fair you sell a competitive product to the Kwikset Smartlock and it is in your best interest if people don't buy a do-it-yourself lock.

I don't work for Kwikset, but have used them for years. The original version was flaky with rekeying and apparently had some vulnerabilities. They released a new version that rekeys perfectly with improved security for bump protection. You can see on Youtube that the new version is much harder to pick.

If you are claiming your lock is impenetrable, send one to the guys that like to break unbreakable things. In my experience a locksmith can get into most locks. On Youtube most every lock and safe has been opened. Of course kicking in a door is fast too and that is preferable to most thieves who are lazy.

There is a rating system for security and the Kwickset are ANSI Grade 1. I encourage people to do their own research.

Alex Sanfilippo · Answer

Thanks for the feedback everyone! I appreciate that. And the lead on landlordlocks.com

The rental units will include free wifi, but I am not looking to spend money where it is not needed.

thanks again!

Bryan O. · Answer

I would agree that the master key is probably the best idea. Unless you're in class A neighborhoods and providing permanent wifi the Kevo is likely a waste of time and money.

Yvette M. · Answer

Try landlordlocks.com

Todd Plambeck · Answer

Are you supplying the WiFi to the units?  Seems like a lock with a master key would be a far cheaper alternative.

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