Rekeying Locks Between Tenants: Texas Landlord Checklist

The Texas turnover-rekey rule in plain language

Texas Property Code Chapter 92 includes residential security-device requirements. Section 92.156(a) requires a landlord, at the landlord's expense, to rekey or change each security device operated by a key, card, or combination on an exterior door no later than the seventh day after each tenant turnover date. The statute defines tenant turnover date as the date a tenant moves into a dwelling under a lease after all previous occupants have moved out. The deadline is not a reason to wait until day seven. Rekey before move-in when possible, then document the work. If lease terms, exceptions, tenant requests, or charges are disputed, use the current statute and legal counsel rather than a blog post.

What is normally included — and what needs separate review

The turnover rule focuses on qualifying security devices on exterior doors. It does not mean every item in or around a property is automatically part of the same locksmith scope.

• Item: Exterior keyed deadbolt or knob — Turnover question to document: Is it operated by a key, card, or combination? — Action before scheduling: Add to the rekey/change list.
• Item: Electronic keypad or card credential — Turnover question to document: Does it control an exterior residential entry? — Action before scheduling: Confirm the device, user-code reset process, and credential owner.
• Item: Sliding-glass-door security device — Turnover question to document: Is the required device present and working? — Action before scheduling: Inspect the lock, latch/bar, and door condition.
• Item: Garage remote, gate remote, mailbox, or interior lock — Turnover question to document: Is it an exterior-door security device, or a separate access item? — Action before scheduling: Review separately; do not assume it is covered by the same rule.
• Item: Damaged door, jamb, or strike — Turnover question to document: Will the new key make a damaged opening secure? — Action before scheduling: Plan structural or door repair before treating the rekey as complete.

Rekey, replace, or reset credentials?

Rekeying changes the key combination inside compatible mechanical hardware so old keys no longer work. It is generally the efficient choice when the lock and door are sound. Replacing hardware is different: it may be necessary when a lock is worn, damaged, incompatible, or part of a broader upgrade. For a keypad, card, or smart-lock environment, the turnover task may include revoking old credentials, changing administrator access under the manufacturer's documented process, and issuing access only to authorized people. For the mechanical choice, see Rekey vs. Replace Locks. For properties with multiple staff, maintenance, or common-area doors, Commercial Master Key Systems may be part of the planning conversation.

• Situation: Mechanical hardware is sound; old keys are the concern — Usually consider: Rekey — Reason: Preserves usable hardware while invalidating prior keys.
• Situation: Lock, latch, strike, or frame is damaged — Usually consider: Repair plus replacement evaluation — Reason: A new key does not correct a weak or misaligned opening.
• Situation: New key system or restricted-key program is planned — Usually consider: Replacement or cylinder-system design — Reason: Requires compatibility and key-control planning.
• Situation: Digital codes or fobs were issued — Usually consider: Credential reset and audit — Reason: Former credentials should not remain active.

A repeatable turnover workflow

The best time to prevent access-control errors is before keys change hands.

• Confirm the turnover date and occupancy status. Do not schedule from an assumed move-out date when occupants may still have lawful access.
• Inventory exterior openings. Note each exterior entry, hardware type, condition, and any credential system.
• Choose the scope. Separate straightforward rekeys from doors requiring repair, replacement, or legal/code review.
• Verify the provider. For regulated locksmith service in Texas, start from the Texas DPS Private Security Program and confirm the company identity.
• Record the result. Keep the service date, openings serviced, key or credential count, invoice, and receiving party in the property file.
• Issue access deliberately. Give new keys, fobs, or codes only to authorized occupants and staff. Remove old digital credentials.
• Test the opening. Confirm the door closes, latches, locks, and unlocks as intended before marking the unit ready.

Owner, manager, and tenant boundaries

Turnover rekeying is the landlord's duty and expense under Section 92.156(a), subject to the statute's scope and exceptions. A tenant who wants a change during an active tenancy is a different situation with different procedures and possible charges. Texas Property Code Section 92.163 addresses tenant alteration boundaries. If there has been an unauthorized entry, attempted entry, or safety concern during a tenancy, document the report, notify the appropriate people, and get legal guidance about the specific deadlines and remedies. Do not use a turnover checklist to decide a live landlord-tenant dispute.

Common turnover mistakes

• Treating a returned key as proof no copies exist.
• Rekeying only the front door while overlooking a garage-to-house or side exterior entry.
• Calling a property ready when a damaged strike or loose jamb prevents secure latching.
• Leaving a former resident's code, fob, or administrator access active.
• Mixing keys between units without a clear key-control record.
• Passing a statutory turnover expense to a new tenant without legal review.

Turnover rekey checklist

• Confirm the actual tenant turnover date and property scope.
• List every exterior opening and its hardware or credential type.
• Inspect the door, frame, strike, latch, and closing alignment.
• Rekey or change covered devices within the statutory timeframe.
• Reset and audit applicable electronic credentials.
• Retain invoice, date, keys/credentials issued, and provider details.
• Test every serviced door before turnover is marked complete.
• Ask legal counsel about exceptions, disputes, charges, or tenant requests.

Frequently Asked Questions