Tenant Lock Rights: What You're Legally Entitled To

You've just moved into a new rental and you're not entirely sure the last tenant handed back all their keys. Or maybe your landlord mentioned they're keeping a copy of your new key without asking. Perhaps you've just left a difficult relationship and need the locks changed urgently, but your property manager isn't returning your calls.

These are real situations Australian tenants face regularly, and your rights in each of them are more clearly defined than most people realise. Understanding the law can save you money, stress, and a very uncomfortable conversation with your landlord.

In Australia, residential tenancy laws are governed at the state and territory level. The core principle across all jurisdictions is this: a tenant has the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, and that includes security. Landlords generally cannot enter without notice, and cannot hold keys without consent in most situations.

What landlords are required to provide

Under residential tenancy legislation across all states, landlords must provide locks that are in good working order at the start of a tenancy. This typically means a deadlock or equivalent security device on external doors. In Victoria, the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 specifically requires that rental properties meet minimum security standards, including deadlocks on external doors.

Can your landlord keep a copy of your key?

This varies by state, but in most jurisdictions, a landlord or agent may retain a key copy, however they are prohibited from using it to enter without giving the required notice (usually 24 to 48 hours). In the ACT and some other states, you can request that the landlord not retain a copy, though this may require written agreement.

Many tenants assume they cannot change the locks without permission. The reality is more nuanced.

Standard lock changes

In most states, you need your landlord's written consent to change the locks. If you change locks without consent, you may be required to restore the original locks at the end of the tenancy, and you may be liable for any costs your landlord incurs as a result. However, refusing a reasonable request for a lock change can be contested through your state's tenancy tribunal.

Family violence and urgent security situations

This is where the law is most protective of tenants. All Australian states and territories have provisions allowing tenants to change locks urgently when family violence is a factor, without requiring landlord consent. In Victoria, a tenant can change the locks immediately and simply provide the landlord with a new key within 14 days. Similar provisions exist in NSW, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.

Costs involved

A standard residential lock change typically costs between $70 and $200, depending on the lock type. Rekeying an existing lock (which is often sufficient and cheaper) usually costs $70 to $130. If the situation is urgent and after-hours, expect a call-out fee in the range of $150 to $300 on top of the labour and parts cost. Some tenants in Sydney have reported paying $550 or more for after-hours lockouts, so confirm pricing before work begins.

When you vacate a rental property, you are generally required to return all keys, including any copies you had cut. Failing to do so can result in lock-related costs being deducted from your bond. If you changed the locks during the tenancy with consent, check your agreement to confirm whether you need to restore the originals or simply hand over the new keys.

Rekeying between tenancies

There is no universal legal requirement for landlords to rekey properties between tenancies, though it is considered best practice. If you're moving into a property and want assurance the previous tenant cannot access it, you can request in writing that the landlord rekey or change the locks before you move in. If the landlord refuses and you have concerns about security, raise it with your state's fair trading or tenancy authority.

Laws are updated regularly. Always verify current requirements with your state's tenancy authority or a community legal service.

Across Australia, there are over 700 licensed locksmith businesses, with an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Highly rated operators include Terry's Locksmiths (4.9 stars, 3,017 reviews), Tas Mobile Locksmith (5.0 stars, 1,591 reviews), and Express Locksmith Gold Coast and Tweed (5.0 stars, 1,375 reviews). Around 82% of Australian locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency services.

When calling a locksmith in a tenancy situation, be upfront about the context. A reputable locksmith will confirm pricing before starting work and can often provide a written invoice that you may need for tenancy records or reimbursement requests.