Kwickset smart key (master key) deadbolt

[Brady Boyer]

I'm considering installing the Kwickset smart key (master key) deadbolt on my rental. Link: https://www.kwikset.com/smartsecurity/key-control.aspx. Has anyone had experience with this? I called a local lock smith and he told me he wouldn't use them because hes had to drill 12 out in the last year. I've also seen mixed reviews online. 

I'm thinking I might put them on anyways because my apartments have two doors to every unit so even if one locks up they can still use the other door and i'll just change out the locked up dead bolt from the inside (replace it with a new one). I think it will still save money in the long run with not having to change the lock after a tenant leaves or eviction. 

[Bill B.]

20 years, 13 properties, zero issues...

I don’t use anything special with landlord/master keys versus tenant key. 

You don’t need to buy “kwikset keys” and household key will work, you could use your house key to open rentals. Every time you buy a new lock you get another set of keys. Label them with a number each time you get them and every time you change tenants go to the next key in the sequence. 

For that matter all your rentals could use the same key if they are SFR, your tenant won't be going to another random home you own to try their keys.

You simply insert the working key, quarter turn the lock, remove key (using the included tool), insert new key you want to use, 3/4 turn back the other way and you’re done.