In New Zealand, the short answer is yes — tenants generally need their landlord's written permission before arranging locksmith work on a rental property. However, there are important exceptions, particularly around safety and security emergencies. Understanding the rules protects both tenants and landlords from disputes and potential legal issues.
What the Residential Tenancies Act Says
The Residential Tenancies Act 1986 (RTA) is the key piece of legislation governing rental properties in New Zealand. Under the RTA, tenants are not permitted to alter the property — including changing or adding locks — without the landlord's prior written consent. This applies whether you're swapping out a deadbolt, adding a new padlock to a gate, or rekeying existing locks.
Landlords, on the other hand, are legally required to provide the property in a reasonable state of repair and to ensure it is reasonably secure. This means locks must be functional and fit for purpose at the start of a tenancy and throughout it.
For detailed guidance on your rights and responsibilities, Tenancy Services is the best official resource for both tenants and landlords.
When Tenants Can Act Without Prior Permission
There are situations where a tenant may need to call a locksmith urgently — for example, if they are locked out, or if a lock is broken and poses an immediate security risk. In these cases:
- Lockouts: A locksmith can be called to gain entry. This doesn't alter the property, so permission isn't usually required, though the cost is typically the tenant's responsibility unless the lockout was caused by a faulty lock.
- Urgent repairs: If a lock is broken and the property is unsecured, this may qualify as an urgent repair under the RTA. Tenants should attempt to contact the landlord or property manager first. If they can't be reached and the situation is urgent, tenants may arrange and pay for the repair (up to the limit set in the RTA — check Tenancy Services for the current dollar threshold), then seek reimbursement.
- Family violence situations: The RTA includes specific provisions allowing tenants experiencing family violence to change locks without landlord consent in certain circumstances. If this applies to you, seek advice from Tenancy Services or a community law centre immediately.
What Landlords Must Do
Landlords have obligations too. Under the Healthy Homes Standards, rental properties must meet minimum requirements — and while locks aren't specifically covered under Healthy Homes, the general requirement for a secure, weathertight property applies. You can read more about landlord obligations at Tenancy Services.
If a tenant reports a broken or faulty lock, landlords must respond promptly. Failing to maintain security could expose a landlord to a Tenancy Tribunal claim.
Asking for Permission: How It Works
If you're a tenant wanting to upgrade your security — say, adding a deadbolt or changing to a higher-security cylinder — here's the typical process:
- Put the request in writing (email is fine) to your landlord or property manager.
- Explain what you want done and why — landlords are more likely to agree if there's a clear reason.
- Wait for written consent before booking a locksmith.
- Provide a copy of any new keys to the landlord — this is usually a condition of consent and is required under the RTA.
- Restore locks at end of tenancy if required by the landlord, or negotiate to leave the upgrade in place.
Landlords cannot unreasonably withhold consent for reasonable security improvements, but they are entitled to conditions — such as receiving a copy of all keys.
What Locksmith Work Typically Involves on Rentals
| Job Type | Permission Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lockout (gaining entry) | Usually not | Tenant's cost unless lock fault |
| Broken lock repair | Notify landlord first | Urgent repair rules may apply |
| Lock rekey | Yes | Landlord gets new key |
| Lock replacement/upgrade | Yes | Landlord gets new key |
| New lock installation | Yes | May need building consent (unlikely for standard locks) |
| Master key system changes | Yes | Landlord/property manager to arrange |
Building Consent Considerations
For standard residential lock changes, building consent is not required — this falls under Schedule 1 exemptions of the Building Act 2004. However, if locksmith work is part of a larger security or access-control installation (such as electronic access systems integrated into the building), it's worth checking with your local council. Always confirm consent requirements with your council rather than assuming.
For more on building consents and exemptions, visit MBIE Building Performance.
When to Call a Professional
Always use a qualified, reputable locksmith for rental property work. A good locksmith will:
- Advise on the right lock grade for your situation (residential locks in NZ may be rated to relevant NZ Standards — confirm the applicable standard with your locksmith or supplier)
- Provide documentation of work done, which is useful for both tenant and landlord records
- Rekey or replace locks cleanly without damaging door frames or hardware
If you're a landlord needing to change locks between tenancies, or a tenant dealing with an urgent security issue, you can find qualified local locksmiths on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Safety note: Never attempt to force or tamper with a lock yourself — you risk damaging the door, the lock mechanism, or injuring yourself. In a genuine emergency (such as someone trapped), call 111.
