Do I have to give my landlord a key?

Asked by: Mr. Joany Bergnaum  |  Last update: October 23, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (19 votes)

A landlord can also include a key provision in the lease, and then the tenant would be breaking the lease if they didn't provide a key. Some lease provisions go on to explicitly state that they must provide a currently working key.

Do I have to give my landlord a key to my house?

You are required to provide the landlord with a key to the property. If you are that uncomfortable living there, you should move, if the lease is up, rather than fight about locks on the door.

Does the landlord have to provide a mail key?

While specific laws may vary depending on your location, there are typically regulations that outline landlords' obligations to provide tenants with essential services, including access to their mailboxes.In many jurisdictions, landlords are required to ensure that tenants have access to their mailboxes promptly upon ...

What to do with keys at the end of tenancy?

Generally speaking all tenants must return the keys they were given to the apartment or pay the penalty for not returning the keys. They can't just keep the keys. You need them for the next tenant.

Do I have to give my landlord a key in California?

Question: Does California law require that a tenant provide a key to his apartment and his phone number to the landlord? Answer: No. California law does not specifically require tenants to give landlords either a key to the apartment or a phone number, but not doing so may be a bad idea.

Should a landlord have a key

31 related questions found

Can my landlord have a copy of my key?

Yes, your landlord should have a copy of all room keys, if there's an emergency repair needed in that room while you're away they need to be able to get in. You can ask for the key back when you leave.

Can a tenant refuse entry to a landlord in California?

A landlord may have the right to enter his property, even against his tenant's wishes, as long as he has given proper written notice and the entry occurs during “normal business hours.” California requires a landlord provide “reasonable” advance notice of intent to enter and considers 24 hours “reasonable” absent ...

Do landlords need to change locks between tenants?

These regulations cover various aspects, including lease agreements, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and tenant rights. In California, there is no explicit law that directly states landlords must change key locks between tenants.

What to clean at the end of a tenancy?

What does an end of tenancy clean include? An end of tenancy cleaning includes: Cleaning, disinfecting and dusting items such as: front door, skirting boards, walls, ceiling, limescale on tiles and taps.

What happens if you lose the keys to a rental?

Most rental car companies have a roadside assistance phone number that you can call if you need help. However, each company has its own policy about how this works. Some offer a basic hotline and then charge more for a premium service, often as a daily rate, while others include full-service support.

Can a landlord refuse to give you your mail?

For instance, discarding, destroying, or withholding a previous tenant's mail can have serious legal consequences, such as fines and time in prison.

Who is responsible for mailbox key?

Please speak with your residential building owner or manager, as they are responsible for purchasing, installing, and maintaining mailboxes. Your local residential building complex is also responsible for individual locks on the boxes and may keep a duplicate key to these locks.

Do I have to return my PO box keys?

➢ You can close a box online or at your local Post Office. You must return your key(s) at the local Post Office to receive your key deposit. ➢ On the 'Get Support' page, you can search frequently asked questions (FAQs) by typing in the search bar or selecting any of the 'Getting Started' basic topics for common FAQs.

What happens if you don't give a 30 day notice to your landlord?

Likewise, if a tenant does not give you enough notice they could be subject to penalties (such as the landlord withholding their security deposit).

What not to say to a landlord?

5 Things You Should Never Say When Renting an Apartment
  • 'I hate my current landlord' Every potential landlord is going to ask why you're moving. ...
  • 'Let me ask you one more question' ...
  • 'I can't wait to get a puppy' ...
  • 'My partner works right up the street' ...
  • 'I move all the time'

Can my landlord change my locks without notice?

Most states require landlords to give 24-48 hours written notice before entering a rental unit to change or rekey the locks. Failure to do so could result in legal issues like an unlawful eviction claim. Unless a noticeable emergency is present, always provide notice in writing to avoid any disputes down the line.

Can a landlord tell you to clean your house?

In California, tenants are required to keep their rental units in a clean and sanitary condition. This includes regularly cleaning kitchens and bathrooms, properly disposing of trash, and controlling pests.

How clean is a seller required to leave the house after moving out?

It's common courtesy to leave the place not only clear of your possessions but also clean. However, that doesn't mean you have to leave it immaculate. “Generally, you shouldn't have to pay to have it deep cleaned,” Jarvis says. In most cases, a simple broom-clean will do.

Do you tip end of tenancy cleaners?

Should I tip end of tenancy cleaners? Tipping end of tenancy cleaners isn't mandatory but can be a nice gesture for exceptional service.

Who is responsible for changing the locks?

In most circumstances, the landlord will be liable to pay for the cost of changing the locks. However, if the tenant has taken it upon themselves to change the locks without the permission of the landlord, or if they have lost the keys, they will need to foot the bill themselves.

Can a tenant put a lock on their bedroom door?

Therefore, it's prudent to use a lock that allows for easy removal or provides a key to the landlord.In summary, while tenants may have the right to install a lock on their bedroom door for privacy and security, it's essential to communicate with the landlord and adhere to the lease and local regulations.

How to rekey a lock?

How to rekey a lock
  1. Remove the exterior doorknob. Give the key a quarter-turn to the right. ...
  2. Remove the cylinder lock from the knob. ...
  3. Push the clip ring off. ...
  4. Remove the key plug from the key housing. ...
  5. Pull the existing pins. ...
  6. Insert the new key.
  7. Insert the new pins. ...
  8. Insert the key plug into the housing.

Can a landlord walk through without you in California?

California state law limits situations when a landlord can enter a rental unit without permission. Reasons include emergency repairs, routine inspections and maintenance, and showings to prospective tenants or buyers.

Does a text count as a written notice?

Yes, text messages can hold up in court if they are authenticated. This involves proving who sent and received the text messages.

How many times can a landlord show your apartment?

The law doesn't set a limit, just that the landlord has to give 24 hours notice. But hosting open houses would not be allowed unless the tenant agreed as that would be an unreasonable infringement on the tenant's right to "Quiet use and enjoyment" of the property.