The law comes first
Lock changes at the end of a tenancy have to follow the law, and in California the process has clear steps. A landlord can't simply change the locks on a tenant who hasn't left.
After a court judgment
The sheriff carries out the eviction, and a locksmith changes the locks at that appointment. Book the locksmith for the sheriff's lockout time; once the sheriff gives the landlord possession, the locks are rekeyed or replaced on the spot.
After a voluntary move-out
That's simpler. Rekey the unit, change the mailbox lock, and update any master key system so the old tenant's key opens nothing.
Jobs we arrange in 92825
- Lock changes at sheriff lockouts
- Move-out rekeys
- Mailbox lock changes
- Master key system updates
- Unit lockouts for verified tenants
Not sure of your obligations?
Speak to a lawyer or the court's self-help center before booking. A locksmith can change locks; only the legal process decides when it's allowed.
Working with property managers
Managers who handle several buildings benefit from a standard routine: rekey at every move-out, record new key numbers, collect all copies at the end of a tenancy, and keep a master key list in a secure place. Mailbox locks and gate codes belong on the same checklist. For buildings with many units, a master key system means a lost tenant key costs one rekey rather than a building-wide change. Agree an after-hours lockout policy with residents in advance, so tenants know what to expect and who pays. Written routines also make handovers easier when a building changes management.
