Eviction Locksmith

Eviction Locksmith Services: Securing Your Property and Peace of Mind

The Essential Role in Legal Eviction Compliance

An Eviction Locksmith is a crucial partner for landlords, property managers, and legal enforcement during a lawful tenant eviction. Our primary role is to ensure the process is executed smoothly and remains legally compliant. We are experienced in working directly with the Sheriff, Bailiffs, or Enforcement Agents on the scheduled eviction date. We arrive on time, prepared to handle any locking system, guaranteeing that once the legal process is complete and the warrant of possession is executed, the property is immediately secured against unauthorized re-entry. We prioritize a non-destructive approach whenever possible to minimize cost and damage.

Comprehensive Property Security: Rekeying vs. Lock Change

The most critical step following an eviction is securing the physical structure of the property. We offer two main solutions to achieve this:

Lock Rekeying: This is the most cost-effective solution. It involves changing the internal pins of the existing lock cylinders so that the old keys no longer work. A new set of keys is provided to the landlord. This is ideal if the existing lock hardware is in good condition.
New Lock Installation (Lock Change): We replace the entire lock unit, which is necessary if the existing locks are damaged, outdated, or if a significant security upgrade (e.g., to high-security deadbolts or smart locks) is desired. We secure all primary access points, including front, back, patio, and garage entry doors.

Gaining Emergency and Non-Destructive Access

Evicted tenants sometimes change the locks or add unauthorized padlocks to prevent the landlord or enforcement from gaining access. As experienced professionals, our locksmiths are equipped to manage these unexpected situations quickly and efficiently.

Tenant-Installed Locks: We can gain entry to properties where tenants have changed the door locks or cylinders without permission.
Minimizing Damage: Our expertise and specialized tools allow us to gain access through the door, in most cases, without causing damage to the door or frame. This saves the landlord significant time and money on repairs.
Padlock and Security Device Removal: We can safely remove any chains, bars, or padlocks that a former tenant may have installed, ensuring a clean transfer of possession.

Specialized Commercial and Multi-Unit Eviction Support

Eviction services extend beyond single-family homes to complex commercial properties and large residential apartment buildings. Commercial evictions often involve more sophisticated security systems, and our locksmiths have the expertise to handle them:

Master Key Systems: For commercial buildings or apartment complexes, we can rekey or change individual unit locks while maintaining or adjusting the central master key system used by the property management.
Electronic and Keyless Entry Systems: We are proficient in reprogramming and managing key fobs, keypads, and other electronic access control systems to instantly revoke the evicted tenant’s access credentials.
Mailbox and Utility Access: In multi-unit properties, we also service mailbox locks, utility closets, and storage unit locks to fully secure all areas associated with the former tenancy.

Post-Eviction Security Consultation and Upgrades

Securing the property on eviction day is just the first step. To safeguard your investment and prepare for new tenants, we offer post-eviction security reviews.

Security Assessment: We can assess the property for any vulnerabilities, especially if the eviction was contentious.
High-Security Hardware: We can recommend and install higher-grade security locks, like ANSI Grade 1 commercial-grade deadbolts, to deter future break-ins and enhance the safety of your next tenant.
Door and Hardware Repair: If the existing doors or frames have sustained damage from a contentious eviction or prior neglect, we can provide repair services to restore structural integrity before installing new locks.

Contact us to get a free quote or schedule a mobile service appointment.

Call or Text us at

813-408-3686

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Eviction Locksmith FAQs

What proof do I need for a locksmith to change the locks?

A reputable and legal eviction locksmith will require official documentation, such as a Warrant of Possession or a Court Order of Eviction, along with your identification as the landlord or property manager. We must verify that the eviction is fully legal before securing the property.

Do I need to schedule the locksmith to be present with the Sheriff/Bailiff?

Yes, absolutely. You must coordinate the locksmith’s arrival to be at the property at the scheduled time of the eviction, ideally just before the Sheriff or Bailiff. This ensures they can gain immediate access and change the locks in front of the enforcement agent, which is often a required step to legally regain vacant possession.

How long does the lock change process take on eviction day?

The time required depends on the number and type of locks. However, an experienced eviction locksmith aims for swift service. A standard residential rekeying of two main door locks can often be completed in 15 to 30 minutes after access is gained, minimizing any delay to the legal process.

Is it illegal for a landlord to change the locks before the eviction date?

Yes. A landlord must follow the complete legal eviction process, which culminates in the execution of a court order by law enforcement. Changing locks or attempting to “self-help” evict a tenant before this official process is complete is an illegal lockout and can result in severe legal and financial penalties.

Will the evicted tenant's personal belongings delay the process?

No, the locksmith’s primary function is only to secure the locks. The handling, removal, and storage of any personal property left behind by the evicted tenant is a separate legal matter that must be managed by the landlord and law enforcement, in accordance with local landlord-tenant laws.

When you need convenient, affordable mobile locksmith service in the Tampa, FL metro region, you can count on Locksmith and Doors.

Here are some of the cities and towns in the Tampa, FL metro region we provide service to: