lockmith needed or not? - Landlord Forum thread 328701

lockmith needed or not? by Serhan M. (Florida) on December 14, 2014 @11:25

Hello,
Tomorrow (12/15/2014) I am evicting my tenant at 10.15 AM with the Sheriff's department police officer. I was told to bring a locksmith with me. Does anybody know if this is mandatory? They charge too much money for a simple job ($80). Since I have the key of the property I wonder if this is a must.
Please advice
Serhan

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Re: lockmith needed or not? by Anonymous on December 14, 2014 @11:32	[ Reply ]

If you do not want the ex-tenant reentering the property, you need to change the locks. Just purchase a new lockset at the big box store and replace.

Re: lockmith needed or not? by Bryan (Ia) on December 14, 2014 @12:17	[ Reply ]

Do you know that the T hasn't changed the locks? They might be suggesting it so that the locksmith can open the door without it having to be forced.

Re: lockmith needed or not? by Bill on December 14, 2014 @12:21	[ Reply ]

You do not need a locksmith. All you need is a phillips screwdriver to take two screws out. Anyone can do it. Buy a new set of locks at the hardware store or at a home supply outlet. It will be the door knobs that take the key just like the ones you will be taking off and the ones like you have on your door at home. Keep the old one. You will use it again with the next tenant moves out. Make sure you bring a key to the rental with you in case the tenant locks the doors on his way out.

Re: lockmith needed or not? by Garry (Iowa) on December 14, 2014 @12:39	[ Reply ]

Yes, you definitely need to change locks. If you know how to do it yourself, then buy a lock set today, if you already know what kind/brand of set is on there now, and change them in the afternoon tomorrow, after the Sheriff has given you back possession. Do not try to do it when everyone is carrying things out the door to the curb. You will just be in their way, and they in yours. A combo handle and deadbolt lock set will take you maybe 20-30 min. per door if its an easy switch-out. If you do find you need a locksmith, schedule him for later in the afternoon tomorrow, or even the next day. Most evicted Ts are not likely to try to get back in, because they know all their stuff is on the curb. And if they wanted to do damage to your property, they will have already done it this weekend. If a lot of stuff is put out to the curb, be prepared to watch the next 2 days as neighbors converge to take any good things home with them that are left.

Re: lockmith needed or not?

In FL can put belongings on the curb.

Re: lockmith needed or not?

Re: lockmith needed or not? by Bill on December 14, 2014 @13:37	[ Reply ]

Go to your rental a day ahead of time or at least a few hours. If the tenant is gone, try your key. If your key does not fit you will need a line up a locksmith.