Can a Landlord Charge for Keys, Locks, or Rekeying?

Key and lock charges are common: missing keys, garage remotes, or "rekeying" the unit. These charges should match actual replacement/rekeying costs and should be supported by receipts.

When the charge can be legitimate

• Keys/remotes were not returned and replacement was necessary
• Security risk required rekeying because keys were lost
• Lease clearly assigns a reasonable replacement fee and it matches actual costs

Red flags

• Flat rekeying fees with no invoice or locksmith receipt
• Charging rekeying when all keys were returned
• Charging premium replacement costs without proof

What to ask for

• List of keys/remotes issued at move-in vs returned at move-out
• Locksmith invoice for rekeying (date, address, service details)
• Replacement receipts for remotes/fobs/keys

How to dispute

1. Confirm what you returned (photos, signed key receipt, move-out checklist).
2. Request receipts/invoices for rekeying and replacements.
3. Dispute charges that exceed actual documented cost.

Start with the dispute template, then escalate to a demand letter if the landlord won't correct it.