Landlords Beware – A Real Winchester Story

Not too long ago, I was out on a routine lock repair in Winchester. While I was working, the tenants shared a story that’s stuck with me ever since.

They’d come downstairs one morning to find a stranger asleep on their sofa. Completely out for the count. Turns out he was a friend of the previous tenants who still had a key—and after a heavy night out, he’d let himself in, thinking he was crashing at his mate’s place. Of course, they’d moved out the week before.

Thankfully, it was an innocent mistake. But it got everyone thinking: how many other people still had keys to the house?

A Simple Fix – Change the Locks

If you’re a landlord, this is something you can fix easily and affordably. Just change the locks when a tenancy ends. You don’t have to rip out the whole mechanism—most modern doors just need the cylinder replaced, especially if they’re fitted with nightlatches or multipoint locks.

It’s a quick job, and it doesn’t cost the earth. Better still, it gives both you and your new tenants peace of mind.

If you’d like a no-obligation quote, just drop me a message at
[email protected] or visit
www.locksmithwinchester.co.uk

I’m always happy to help.

Want More Control? Use Registered Keys

If you want that extra layer of security, you might want to look into restricted profile locks. These come with registered keys, which can’t be copied at your local hardware shop. Only you—or someone you authorise—can get spares made.

So, let’s say you hand over four keys at the start of a tenancy. When the tenants leave, you collect those same four keys back. If one’s missing, you’ll know. And because nobody could’ve made copies, there’s no guessing or hoping—it’s fully under your control.

The locks cost a little more than standard cylinders, but in most cases, you can pass that on in the tenancy agreement if any keys go missing. It’s a small price for proper peace of mind.

Own Multiple Properties? A Master Key System Might Help

If you’re managing a few properties across Winchester or nearby areas, a master suite system could make your life much easier. Each property has its own keys for the tenants, but you carry just one master key that opens all your doors.

You’ll save time, avoid the keyring full of mystery metal, and still have complete control. The keys are still restricted, so no copies can be made without your say-so.

I also supply split clutch cylinders, which allow your key to work from outside—even if there’s one left in the lock on the inside. Great for those “key-left-in-the-door” scenarios that catch a lot of landlords out.

Let’s Keep Things Secure

If you’re a landlord in Winchester, it pays to stay one step ahead. Whether it’s a quick lock swap, a full key control system, or just some honest advice, I’m always here to help.

Call me on 01962 690072
[email protected]
www.locksmithwinchester.co.uk

Let’s make sure you never walk into a surprise on the sofa.