A good smart lock can make rental property management much easier. It can reduce key handoffs, simplify guest check-ins, and let you change access without rekeying the door every time someone moves out.
The best option depends on your setup. Some landlords need simple keypad access for long-term tenants, while others want app control, audit logs, or smart-home integration for short-term rentals.
What to Look for in a Rental Property Smart Lock
Before choosing a lock, it helps to think about how the property is used. A lock that is perfect for one apartment may be the wrong choice for a vacation rental or a multi-unit building.
- Keypad access so you can issue codes without handing out physical keys
- Easy code changes when tenants move out or bookings change
- Auto-lock or scheduled locking for added security
- Battery life that is long enough to reduce maintenance
- Guest or tenant access logs if you want to track entry history
- Compatibility with your existing deadbolt and door thickness
- Wi-Fi or bridge support if you need remote control from anywhere
6 Best Smart Locks for Rental Properties
1. Schlage Encode Plus
The Schlage Encode Plus is one of the most polished options for rental use. It combines a built-in Wi-Fi connection with a keypad, so you can manage access remotely without buying an extra hub.
It is especially useful if you want to create and delete guest codes quickly. The lock also fits well for property owners who want a more premium feel and a familiar deadbolt design that many tenants can use without confusion.
2. Yale Assure Lock 2
The Yale Assure Lock 2 is a flexible choice with multiple smart-home platform options. It works well for landlords who already use an ecosystem such as Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa, depending on the version and module selected.
Its keypad-only operation keeps things simple for tenants and guests. It is also a strong option if you want to match the lock to a property's existing hardware style while keeping setup relatively straightforward.
3. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a good option if you want to keep the existing exterior hardware. It installs on the inside of the door, which can be appealing if you do not want to replace the visible deadbolt on a nicer property.
For rentals, this design makes it easier to preserve the property's appearance while still adding remote access. It is also useful for owners who occasionally want to give temporary access without changing the outside lock hardware.
4. Level Lock+ Touch
The Level Lock+ Touch is a more discreet option because it looks very close to a standard mechanical lock. That can be valuable for rental properties where you want smart features without making the door look obviously upgraded.
It is also attractive for owners who want modern access features but do not want a bulky keypad on the outside of the door. This can be especially useful for higher-end rental units or properties with strict design expectations.
5. eufy Security Smart Lock Touch
The eufy Security Smart Lock Touch is a practical choice for owners who want several ways to unlock the door, including fingerprint access, keypad codes, app control, and physical key backup. That flexibility can be helpful in rentals where different users prefer different entry methods.
For property managers, the fingerprint feature may be useful for long-term tenants, while the keypad works well for guests and maintenance staff. Just make sure the lock's available features match the specific model you choose, since smart lock families can vary by version.
6. Aqara Smart Lock U100
The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is worth considering if you want a feature-rich lock at a more accessible price point. It supports keypad access and smart-home integration, and it can fit well in a rental where you want modern control without moving into the highest price tier.
It is a strong option for owners who are comfortable working within a smart-home ecosystem and want flexible access management. For some rental setups, the value proposition is especially appealing when you are outfitting more than one unit.
Which Smart Lock Is Best for Different Rental Types?
- Best for short-term rentals: Schlage Encode Plus
- Best for smart-home flexibility: Yale Assure Lock 2
- Best for keeping the existing deadbolt look: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
- Best for a discreet premium appearance: Level Lock+ Touch
- Best for multiple access methods: eufy Security Smart Lock Touch
- Best for value-focused installations: Aqara Smart Lock U100
Tips for Managing Smart Locks in Rentals
- Use unique codes for each tenant, cleaner, or contractor so you can remove access individually.
- Test the lock with the door closed and latched before handing it over to a guest or tenant.
- Keep spare batteries on hand so you can replace them quickly when the lock starts warning about low power.
- Confirm whether remote access requires Wi-Fi, a hub, or a bridge so you are not surprised during setup.
- Document how to change codes and unlock the door in case a tenant gets locked out.
Before You Buy
Check the door thickness, backset, and deadbolt type before ordering any smart lock. A model that looks great on paper may not fit your door without extra parts or modifications.
It is also worth thinking about how often the property turns over. If you change guests or tenants frequently, prioritize remote code management and reliability over advanced extras that you may not use often.
