Who this is for: A tenant receiving keys for a new apartment, basement suite, or rental house.
What your landlord is and is not required to do
In Ontario, a landlord may not change the locks without giving the tenant a replacement key, and a tenant should not change the locks without the landlord's consent. In practice, many landlords agree to a rekey if the tenant pays for it and hands over a copy. A rekey is usually the cheapest route because it keeps the existing hardware. Put the agreement in writing, keep the invoice, and keep the original key cylinder if the landlord asks for the door to be returned to its original state at move-out.
A practical checklist
- Ask the landlord when the cylinders were last rekeyed and how many copies exist.
- Confirm permission before changing hardware or adding a smart lock.
- Decide which doors need control: entry, patio, garage, mailbox, or storage.
- Keep the original hardware and document any approved changes for move-out.
Common mistake to avoid
Replacing a lock without permission can breach a lease, and copying keys without understanding a restricted system can waste money.
What is different in Toronto
Toronto rentals range from century homes with mortise locks to modern suites with electronic fobs; the right approach depends on the existing hardware and the landlord's agreement.
What rekeying does for a tenant
Rekeying changes the internal pins of the existing cylinder so that old keys stop working and a new key works. It keeps the same hardware, so the door looks unchanged and most landlords are comfortable with it. For a tenant, the value is simple: previous tenants, agents, contractors and anyone else who ever held a copy can no longer open your door.
How to ask without an argument
A short written request works best. Ask whether the locks were rekeyed between tenancies, say that you would like them rekeyed for security, and offer to arrange it. Many landlords agree because it costs little and reduces their liability. If the answer is no, you can still ask for a written statement of how many keys exist and who holds them. Keep any reply so there is a record at move-out.
What to avoid
Do not swap a lock for a different model, drill into a door or fit a smart lock without permission, and do not keep the old parts in a drawer if the lease requires them to be returned. If you rent in a building with a master-key system, a change to one cylinder can affect management access, so this is a conversation to have first. When you are ready to book, our lock rekeying service explains the process.
Need help with residential rekeying service? Better Call Locksmith Toronto operates 24/7 from 901 Yonge Street. See our lock rekeying page or call (416) 240-0593.