Smart Lock Pros and Cons

Smart lock pros

• No more lost keys. Enter with a PIN, fingerprint, phone, watch, card or fob.
• Easy, controlled sharing. Give a cleaner, carer or house sitter a code that only works on certain days or times, then delete it.
• Instant lockout of old access. No rekeying when a tradie finishes or a housemate moves out.
• Remote control. Lock or check the door from your phone, and get alerts when someone comes home.
• Auto-lock. The door locks itself after it closes, so you never wonder if you forgot.
• Activity history. See who used the door and when.
• Smart home routines. Lights on and alarm off when you unlock, for example.

Smart lock cons

• Batteries. Most run on AA or rechargeable batteries that need changing every few months to a year. Cold Canberra mornings can shorten that.
• Cost. Expect to pay more than for a quality deadlock, and remote access may need a hub.
• Tech dependence. You rely on firmware updates, the app and the brand staying in business.
• Variable quality. Physical strength varies widely. Some low-cost models have thin housings or weak bolts.
• Learning curve. Not everyone in the household may be comfortable with apps and codes.
• Installation limits. Some models need new holes in the door or a specific door thickness, which is a problem in rentals and older homes.

Tips before you buy:

• Check the exact model. Matter support is sometimes limited to newer versions of a lock, or arrives later through a firmware update.
• Home Key is a separate feature. A lock can work with Apple Home without offering tap-to-unlock.
• Keep a fallback. Keypad, fingerprint and Bluetooth still work at the door if your internet drops out.

Smart locks in ACT rentals

Tenants: you need your landlord’s written consent before replacing or adding a lock, including a smart lock. Under the ACT Residential Tenancies Act 1997, a modification made for security is treated as a “special modification”. That means the landlord can only refuse if they first get approval from the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).

The landlord can attach reasonable conditions, such as using a qualified tradesperson. Unless you agree otherwise, you pay for the change.

To make approval easy:

1. Put the request in writing: the lock model, who will install it and why you want it.
2. Offer to keep the original lock and refit it when you move out.
3. Offer the landlord or agent a key or access code for inspections and emergencies.
4. Choose a model that uses the existing holes in the door where possible.
5. Keep copies of the consent and receipts.

Retrofit smart locks that clip over the existing inside thumb turn are often the simplest option, because the outside of the door does not change.

Landlords and property managers: smart locks can make changeovers between tenants faster, since you delete old codes instead of rekeying. Agree in writing who manages the admin account, and make sure every external door still meets your insurer’s requirements.

This is general information, not legal advice. For your situation, contact the Tenants’ Advice Service or Access Canberra.

Smart locks on older doors

Many Canberra homes built from the 1960s to the 1990s have doors that were never designed for smart hardware. Common issues:

• Door thickness. Many smart locks specify a door thickness range. Thin or hollow-core doors may not suit, and very thick solid doors may need longer spindles or screws.
• Bore and backset. Older locks may use hole sizes or positions that do not match modern smart locks. A locksmith can often adapt the door or supply an adaptor plate.
• Mortice locks. Some older and heritage doors use mortice locks. Look for a smart lock made to retrofit mortice hardware, or a smart cylinder.
• Alignment. A smart lock’s motor needs a bolt that slides freely. If your door sticks in winter, the lock works harder, drains batteries faster and can jam. Adjust the strike or hinges first.
• Weak frames. An old frame or short screws can undo a strong lock. Fit a reinforced strike plate with long screws.
• Glass panels and sidelights. If a window is within reach of the inside handle or thumb turn, choose a lock that is not easily operated from inside through broken glass.

If you are unsure whether a smart lock will fit, take photos of both sides of the door and the edge with the lock, and ask a locksmith before you buy.

Get a smart lock fitted properly

Our Canberra residential locksmiths check your door, frame and setup, then install and configure your smart lock so it works with your phone from day one. See the smart locks and deadlocks we stock on our lock products page.

Related guides: Mechanical vs smart locks · Lock grades explained