Essential Security Landlord Must Provide — Locks, Lighting & Habitability Basics

Answer

Intro: Tenants expect a rental to be reasonably secure; landlords owe basic security measures that protect occupants and the property. Requirements vary by state and city, but landlords commonly must provide functioning entry locks, operable safety devices, and maintain common-area security. Below are practical measures landlords should supply and steps to follow after a security incident.

Core security items landlords typically must provide:

• Working exterior and unit locks. Provide keyed deadbolts or equivalent locks on exterior doors and ensure locks work at turnover. Change or rekey locks between tenants unless the lease states otherwise.
• Secure windows and sliding doors. Supply window latches and secondary devices for sliding doors (security bars or anti-lift devices) where applicable.
• Exterior lighting and sightlines. Maintain adequate lighting at entrances, stairwells, parking areas and pathways to reduce crime risk and improve tenant safety.
• Smoke and CO detectors, and basic fire safety. While fire-safety devices are not “locks,” functioning detectors and clear egress routes are fundamental to habitability and often legally required.
• Controlled access for multi-family properties. For apartment buildings, provide functioning entry systems (locks, intercoms, key fob systems) and secure common areas, including well-maintained doors and gates.
• Mail and package security. Provide USPS-compliant mailboxes and reasonable measures for package delivery (locked parcel boxes or secure drop zones) where feasible.

After a break-in or security failure: document damage and theft, call law enforcement for reports, notify the tenant and insurer as appropriate, and repair or rekey locks promptly. Keep records of police reports, invoices and repair dates to support habitability or insurance claims.

Limits and tenant responsibilities: Tenants should report security defects in writing and may install temporary non-destructive devices (like door/window alarms) with landlord permission. Landlords must respect tenant privacy: surveillance devices require clear disclosure and must comply with local privacy and recording laws.

Final note: Local statutes and lease terms change what landlords must provide and how quickly they must act. Because rules vary, it’s advisable to consult a licensed local attorney or experienced property manager to align your security practices with state and municipal requirements.