Landlord Responsibilities in Wales: What the Law Requires for Locks When Letting in Cardiff
If you’re a landlord in Cardiff, you already know that managing property means juggling safety checks, maintenance, and legal obligations, and sometimes the small details make the biggest difference. One detail that’s easy to overlook? Locks.
At Curley Locks, we regularly help Cardiff landlords secure their rental properties and stay compliant with Welsh housing standards. Whether you manage a single flat or a portfolio of student lets, understanding your lock and security responsibilities under Welsh law can help protect both your tenants and your investment.
Do Landlords Have to Change Locks Between Tenants?
While it’s not written as a strict legal requirement, landlords in Wales are responsible for ensuring their properties are “fit for human habitation” under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016, and that includes security.
Changing locks between tenants is one of the simplest ways to meet that duty. Think about it: you can never be sure how many spare keys a previous tenant handed out. Replacing or re-cylindering the locks between tenancies ensures that only your new tenants have access.
If you want to see why this really matters, check out our related blog: Riverside Landlords: Why You Should Change Locks Between Tenants.
What Type of Locks Do Landlords Need to Fit?
There isn’t a single “one size fits all” rule for locks in Wales, but insurers and industry standards do provide clear guidance. For Cardiff landlords, we always recommend:
BS3621-approved deadlocks or night latches for wooden doors
TS007 3-star euro-cylinders for uPVC and composite doors
Key-operated window locks on all accessible windows
Not only do these meet most insurance requirements, but they also reduce the risk of forced entry, something every landlord wants to avoid.
Who’s Responsible for Lock Repairs or Replacements?
Generally, landlords are responsible for keeping locks functional and secure, while tenants are responsible for using them properly.
If a lock becomes faulty due to wear and tear, it’s the landlord’s job to fix or replace it. However, if a tenant loses their keys or causes damage, they’re typically responsible for the cost of replacement.
We recommend adding a clear lock and key policy in your tenancy agreement, it helps avoid confusion and makes it easier to manage expectations from the start.
Smart Locks and Modern Access Options
As more Cardiff landlords modernise their properties, smart locks are becoming a popular choice. These systems let you change access codes between tenants and even monitor when doors are opened or closed.
They’re especially useful for HMOs, serviced apartments, or short-term lets in areas like Cardiff Bay or Roath. Just make sure the lock has manual override access (for emergencies) and meets British Standard EN 15684 if required by your insurer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do landlords in Cardiff have to change the locks when a tenant moves out?
While not an explicit law, changing locks between tenancies is considered best practice under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016. It helps ensure only authorised individuals have access, protecting your new tenants and reducing liability risks.
What locks are acceptable for rental property insurance in Wales?
Most insurance providers require BS3621 mortice or night-latch locks on wooden doors and TS007 3-star euro-cylinders for modern uPVC or composite doors. Using certified locks is key to remaining compliant and fully covered in the event of a break-in.
Who pays for lock changes if a tenant loses their keys in Cardiff?
If keys are lost or stolen, tenants are usually responsible for the locksmith cost. However, landlords should still make sure the lock is replaced promptly, both for safety and compliance reasons. A clause in the tenancy agreement should clarify who pays for what.
Can landlords install smart locks in their rental properties?
Absolutely, and it’s becoming increasingly common in Cardiff. Smart locks make access management easier and can improve overall property security. Just ensure the system allows for emergency access and meets insurance-approved safety standards.
How can Curley Locks help landlords meet lock and security requirements?
We work with Cardiff landlords to carry out full lock inspections, change locks between tenancies, and upgrade systems to meet modern safety and insurance standards. We can also provide installation certificates for your records.
Keep Your Cardiff Rental Safe and Compliant
Whether you let out one property or several, staying on top of lock changes and security standards is essential for compliance, and for your tenants’ peace of mind.
At Curley Locks, we make it easy. Our local locksmiths handle lock changes, upgrades, and inspections for landlords all across Cardiff.
