By Michael Thompson
Our Editorial Research & Methodology
Why Your Rental Needs a Smart Lock Yesterday
Look, the days of hiding a key under a fake plastic rock are over. If you are still doing that, you are asking for trouble. Traditional keys are a massive headache for landlords. They get lost, they get copied, and every time a tenant moves out, you have to spend money to rekey the locks. It is a cycle of wasted time and cash.
Smart locks changed the game. In 2026, they are not just a luxury; they are a basic requirement for running a profitable rental. Whether you have a long-term tenant or a high-turnover Airbnb, a smart lock gives you control. You can see who enters, when they leave, and you can revoke access with a single tap on your phone. No more driving across town at 2 AM because someone locked themselves out.
In my experience, the right lock pays for itself within the first year. You save on locksmith fees, but more importantly, you save your own sanity. Guests love the convenience of keyless entry, and you love the security of knowing exactly who has access to your investment. Let's dive into what actually makes a lock good for a rental environment.
The 2026 Standard: Matter and Thread
If you are buying a lock today, you need to know about Matter and Thread. These are not just tech buzzwords. Matter is the new universal language that lets different smart home devices talk to each other. Thread is the mesh network that makes them respond instantly without draining your battery. In 2026, if a lock does not support Matter-over-Thread, it is already obsolete. You want a lock that stays connected even if your Wi-Fi is spotty.
Top Smart Locks for Rental Properties Compared
Choosing a lock depends on your specific setup. Do you want to replace the whole deadbolt, or just the inside part? Do you need a keypad, or is a phone app enough? Here is a quick breakdown of the heavy hitters in the market right now.
🏆 Our Top Picks
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
This is the gold standard for reliability. It features a built-in alarm, ANSI Grade 1 security, and supports Apple Home Key, allowing guests to tap their iPhone to enter. It is perfect for landlords who want a 'set it and forget it' solution.
Check Price on Amazon →Yale Assure Lock 2 with Matter
A highly versatile lock that works with almost any smart home ecosystem. The Matter support ensures it will be compatible with future tech for years. It has a sleek design and a very responsive keypad.
Check Price on Amazon →August Wi-Fi Smart Lock 4th Generation
The best choice for properties where you cannot change the exterior hardware. It fits over your existing deadbolt on the inside of the door. It is easy to install but has a shorter battery life than keypad-based locks.
Check Price on Amazon →Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi Fingerprint Smart Lock
Excellent for long-term rentals where you want to give tenants biometric access. It offers six ways to enter, including a fingerprint scanner and a hidden keyhole. The auto-unlock feature is a great perk for residents.
Check Price on Amazon →Lockly Secure Pro Smart Lock
Features a unique 'Pin Genie' keypad that shuffles the numbers after every use, preventing people from guessing the code based on fingerprint smudges. It is ideal for high-security needs but the app can be slightly complex for some.
Check Price on Amazon →| Feature | Schlage Encode Plus | Yale Assure 2 | August Wi-Fi | Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Thread | Matter, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Keypad | Yes | Yes | No (Optional) | Yes |
| Battery Life | 6-12 Months | 6-9 Months | 3-6 Months | 6-12 Months |
| Best For | Reliability | Versatility | Retrofit | Biometrics |
The Hidden Costs of Cheap Smart Locks
I have seen landlords try to save fifty bucks by buying a generic brand lock from a random site. It always ends in tears. Cheap locks have three major flaws: terrible battery life, flaky apps, and weak physical security. A lock that dies every two weeks is a liability, not an asset. You will spend more on batteries and guest complaints than you saved on the initial purchase.
What most people miss is the build quality of the internal motor. A high-quality lock like a Schlage or Yale uses a motor that can handle a slightly misaligned door. A cheap lock will jam, send you an error notification, and leave your guest standing in the rain. Stick to the brands that have been making hardware for decades. They know how to build things that last in the real world.
The Psychology of the Keypad
Here is a pro tip: always choose a lock with a physical keypad. While app-based entry sounds cool, it is a nightmare for guests who are not tech-savvy. Their phone dies, they forget to download the app, or they do not have a data plan. A physical keypad is universal. You text them a four-digit code, they punch it in, and they are inside. It is simple, reliable, and reduces your support calls by 90 percent.
Integration with Property Management Software
If you run multiple units, you cannot manage codes manually. You need a lock that integrates with your Property Management System (PMS). Platforms like Guesty or Hospitable can automatically generate a unique code for every guest that only works during their stay. The code activates at check-in and expires at check-out. This is the ultimate hands-off management style. You never have to think about access again.
The Dead Battery Nightmare
Every smart lock will eventually run out of juice. The question is: what happens then? The best locks for rentals have a physical key backup or a 9V battery jumpstart port on the bottom. I always recommend leaving a physical key in a secure lockbox somewhere on the property as a fail-safe. It is the backup for your backup. You hope you never need it, but you will be glad it is there when the batteries die during a cold snap.
Security and Tenant Privacy
When you install a smart lock in a long-term rental, you have to respect tenant privacy. Most jurisdictions require you to give notice before entering, and a smart lock log can feel like surveillance. Be transparent. Tell your tenants that the lock is for their security and your ability to help them if they get locked out. Never use the entry logs to spy on their coming and going. That is a fast way to end up in a legal battle.
From a security standpoint, look for an ANSI Grade 1 rating. This is the highest level of residential security. It means the lock can withstand significant physical force. Smart features are great, but at the end of the day, it still needs to be a strong piece of metal that keeps bad people out.
Maintenance Checklist for Landlords
To keep your locks running smoothly, you need a routine. Do not wait for a guest to complain. Here is what I do every six months:
- Check the alignment: Doors sag over time. Make sure the bolt slides into the strike plate without rubbing.
- Swap the batteries: Do not wait for the low-battery warning. Just change them twice a year.
- Update the firmware: Manufacturers release updates that improve battery life and security.
- Clean the keypad: Fingerprint oils can build up and show which numbers are used most often. Wipe it down to keep it looking fresh and secure.
Weatherproofing Matters
If your rental is near the ocean or in a place with freezing winters, you need a lock with a high IP rating. Salt air eats electronics for breakfast. Look for locks specifically rated for outdoor use with sealed components. I have seen locks literally melt in the Arizona sun and freeze shut in Chicago. Read the temperature ratings before you buy.
Final Thoughts on Rental Security
Investing in a high-quality smart lock is one of the smartest moves you can make as a landlord. It streamlines your operations, impresses your guests, and secures your property. Start with one unit, see how much time it saves you, and you will never want to touch a brass key again. Focus on reliability, ease of use, and solid integrations. Your future self will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart locks work if the Wi-Fi goes out?
Yes, most smart locks will still allow entry via keypad codes or physical keys even if the Wi-Fi is down. You just won't be able to change codes remotely until the connection is restored.
How long do the batteries usually last?
In a typical rental, batteries last between 6 to 12 months. Locks using Thread or Zigbee usually last longer than those using only Wi-Fi.
Can I install a smart lock on an apartment door?
If you own the unit, usually yes. If you are a tenant, you must get landlord permission. Retrofit locks like August are best for apartments because they don't change the exterior hardware.
