Dalston Locksmith Service Team
Local locksmith team
16 Sep 2026 3 min read
If you've just moved into a flat on Ridley Road, handed back keys at the end of a tenancy in Stoke Newington, or found yourself locked out of a rented house in Hackney after a dispute, one question almost always comes up: who actually has the right to change the locks? It's a question that matters to both tenants and landlords, and getting the answer wrong can have serious legal and practical consequences.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We'll explain what the law says, walk through the most common scenarios — tenancy changeovers, lost keys, domestic disputes — and explain how a professional locksmith London service handles a lock change safely and correctly for everyone involved.
Frequently asked questions
Can my landlord change the locks without telling me?+
No. Under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, a landlord who changes the locks without the tenant's knowledge and consent while a tenancy is active is committing an offence. This applies even if the tenant is in rent arrears or in breach of the tenancy agreement. The only lawful route to recovering possession of the property is through the courts.
Can a locksmith install a mortice deadlock on a rented property?+
Yes. A skilled locksmith can fit a 5-lever mortice deadlock to a timber door even if one has never been there before. It is worth checking your tenancy agreement first, as most require the landlord's written permission before structural alterations — and cutting a mortice pocket into a door edge does count as an alteration. Once permission is confirmed, a qualified locksmith can complete the installation in a single visit. The final quote will depend on the type of lock chosen, the condition of the door, and when the work takes place, and you will be given an exact price before any work begins.
How do I change the code on my door lock between tenancies?+
The process depends on the make and model of your digital lock. Most smart door locks have a reset procedure that involves a master code or a small reset button — your manufacturer's manual will have the exact steps. For a Honeywell door lock, the procedure is typically covered clearly in the accompanying guide. If you are unsure how to change the code on a door lock after a tenancy ends, or if the lock is behaving unexpectedly, our team is happy to assist on-site and can confirm the lock is fully operational before a new tenant moves in.
I've been locked out of my rented flat in Hackney — what should I do?+
First, check whether you have a spare key with a trusted neighbour, a friend, or your letting agent. If not, call a professional locksmith straight away. We cover Hackney and the surrounding area around the clock, and we are usually with you in about 30 minutes. We will carry out reasonable checks to verify your right to access — such as ID and confirmation of your address — before opening the door, and we will always aim to do so without damaging the lock. Call us on 020 3757 8288 any time, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
