Saturday, June 4, 2011

Is it legally required to change mailbox locks between tenants or is it customary to re-use the same locks?

I recently moved into a large building, and asked if management could change the mailbox lock just in case previous tenants still had the key. I was told, because of management policies, and the nature of the secure locks they use, they only change locks if it is broken or for other reasons, but not just because a new tenant requests it.





I was then assured, that previous tenants are required to return all keys. That isn%26#039;t any consolation, because you never know how many keys were made.





The condo is privately owned and I am renting from the owners. I would think, the owners would be able to make that request? I would be willing to pay the bill. Also, the owners didn%26#039;t have a problem with having the locks changed for me. I may just have my mail forwarded to the main post office.|||normally they simply recover the keys and reuse the same locks and keys, however if you thing you may be having a mail problem, see the post office and they will change the lock and keys to your box.


If the mail box is maintained by your landlord and they refuse to help, a accident where the key is broken off in the lock will insure a new lock is installed|||You could always change the lock yourself. Go to the local Home Depot and get the kit. Then when you leave, replace the locks.|||When you have a tenant change the locks and keys should be changed by the post office the delivers your mail.





If you have satellite mail boxes, you are smart for having your mail go to the main post office.|||It is not a legal requirement and therefore the condo owner is under no obligation whatsoever to honor your request.|||Do yourself a favor, and have your mail forwarded to a p.o. box at your local post office. In a large building that has had many tenants, you don%26#039;t know who still has keys.