I, Mark Roemer, know that moving into an apartment opens up new possibilities for memories and experiences.
Your property manager will go over the dos and don’ts of living in the complex with you on move-in day. However, they frequently overlook one crucial detail: replicating apartment keys.
It’s crucial to know if it’s allowed to duplicate your key, whether you need a backup for a significant other or a pet sitter or are concerned about being locked out. Making duplicates of your key may be against the restrictions mentioned in your lease agreement, depending on where you live. Before making a replica, it’s crucial to understand what you can and can’t do with apartment keys.
Duplication Legality
Before I get into the specifics of whether or not your current lease permits you to duplicate your apartment key, it’s important to note that making a copy is technically not unlawful. Even if your key says “Do not copy,” you can still use it. “You’re not breaking any laws by copying it if it has a stamp on it.
“Cutting a key with a do not copy mark on it is not unlawful,” says Wynns Locksmith, who claims to be the best in the area. The sole exception is if a patent protects the critical design. Authorization is required in this scenario for duplication.
They do not copy requests put on a key; in most cases, it serves little purpose other than to provide the renter a false sense of security. This usually implies no additional copies of your key floating around, although this isn’t always the case.
It may limit your alternatives for getting a duplicate key manufactured, but it does not rule it out entirely. A key with a do not copy notice will not be duplicated at some hardware stores. Locksmiths, on the other hand, will generally produce copies for you. They’re more conscious that the key request is just that, a request rather than an order.
Allowable vs. Legal
Even though you now know it’s legal to copy apartment keys if your property management says it’s not, you’re still on the hook. Copying a key without authorization can still land you in trouble, depending on your lease and the laws followed by your property manager. It won’t be the kind of incident requiring police intervention, but it could result in unpleasant consequences. As a result, before presuming that copying a key is acceptable, it’s always a good idea to check apartment-specific papers to discover what’s authorized.
Lease Details
Your lease spells out all of the limits and conditions that apply to reside in your apartment. It’s the greatest place to start when figuring out what you can and can’t do.
Because each lease agreement is slightly different, it’s always a good idea to read through yours thoroughly. Depending on where you reside and who manages your building, your lease may include tight conditions. Copying a key could result in a significant infringement with a fine or possibly a contract breach.
Keys and Locks
A lock and key clause will be included in most lease agreements. This section specifies whether or not it is permissible to duplicate apartment keys. If no mention of keys is made, it’s reasonable to assume you’re free to copy.
The terminology used in these sections can be formal and legal. Please read it thoroughly and underline key points in your copy of the lease to make it easier to locate information later. You’ll almost certainly find information about apartment locks, including whether or not you can install more to your door.
The number of keys given to you by your property manager at the start of your lease is also included. Then there’s the duplicates rule. Typically, the lease will state that you are not permitted to produce duplicates. If you request it, your property manager will take care of it for a fee.
Is it a key?
Also, check your lease to verify how the term “key” is defined. With today’s innovative technologies, the term “key” can refer to more than just the cold metal dangling from your keychain. It could be fobs, keycards, or anything else that is used to get access to the building and your particular apartment unit.
Talk Things Over with Your Property Manager
If you’re unsure about your capacity to duplicate a key, talk to someone because lease agreements can be challenging to understand. Any concerns about making copies may be alleviated if you confirm the restrictions with your property manager. Your management office should be able to respond with a simple yes or no.
Consultation with a real person before generating duplicate apartment keys is an intelligent approach to avoid burning any bridges as a tenant.
What happens if you break the rules?
It’s difficult to predict how property management will react if they discover you’ve duplicated apartment keys without permission. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, though, because it’s in your lease. While you may believe you can replicate a key without anyone noticing, you’re risking a costly problem.
Let’s say you create a copy of your apartment key for a buddy who’ll be staying with you for about a week while they look for a place to rent. Because their timetable differs from yours, you give them a key. You’re not supposed to copy anything, but who’s going to notice?
Your pal then misplaces their key. You’re now concerned that someone could be able to break into your residence. You must notify your property manager of the missing key, pay the fine to repair the locks, and most likely get caught with an unapproved replica.
Another situation is that you get away with manufacturing copies of your key despite your lease prohibiting it. You have to turn over all copies when it’s time to move out, but you can’t remember who owns one. You don’t want any extra keys lying about, so you’ll have to pay to get the locks replaced.
If your property manager discovers that you’ve produced duplicates without authorization, you’ll have to pay to have your locks changed. This amount is usually broken down in your lease and includes the actual locksmith expenses and a convenience fee for the property manager.
It also makes you appear untrustworthy, and your property management may lose faith in you. This could lead to them keeping a closer check on you, which could lead to further issues in the future.
To duplicate or not to duplicate
While confirming whether or not you can copy your key may seem inconvenient, it’s critical to proceed with caution. It’s sometimes a debate between what’s criminal and what’s not permitted. I, Mark Roemer, would like to remind you that while it is legal to copy practically any key, it is crucial to think twice if your lease prohibits you from doing so. Review your agreement and speak with your property manager to ensure that having that spare key manufactured will not have any negative consequences.