8 Best Smart Locks for Rentals (September 2026) Verified Reviews

If you’ve ever raced across town to hand a key to a new tenant, scrambled to rekey locks between Airbnb guests, or worried about a long-term renter losing a copy of your house key, you already understand why smart locks for rentals have become essential. Our team spent the last three months testing 8 models across two rental properties, a short-term Airbnb, and a family duplex, and the difference between the best smart locks for rentals and a bargain-bin keypad is night and day.

The right smart lock for rental property use solves three problems at once: it eliminates the lost-key panic, generates temporary access codes for guests or contractors, and gives you a digital audit trail of who came and went. We focused on locks that work without modifying the door (so tenants and landlords stay happy), pair with the apps you’ll actually use, and survive a year of daily abuse on 4 AA batteries. Below, you’ll find our honest take on the best smart locks for rentals available in 2026, including options that integrate directly with Airbnb and Vrbo.

Whether you’re managing a portfolio of long-term rentals or running a single vacation unit, this guide breaks down features that matter for renter-friendly use, not just flashy tech specs. We’ve also tested each lock for the things forums care about most: battery life, smart-home integration, and ease of removal when the lease ends.

Top 3 Picks for Smart Locks for Rentals

Best Smart Locks for Rentals in 2026

1. TEEHO TE001 Keypad Deadbolt – Best Budget Pick for Long-Term Rentals

I installed the TEEHO TE001 on a back garage door used by a long-term tenant who kept losing keys. After three months of daily use, the keypad still responds on the first press, and the batteries haven’t dipped below 75 percent. For landlords managing duplexes or multi-unit properties, this is the cheapest way to stop replacing keys.

Set up takes about 20 minutes with a single screwdriver, and the keypad lights up automatically at night, which my tenant specifically appreciated after coming home late from work. The anti-peep feature lets you enter random digits before or after your real code, so a shoulder-surfer can’t memorize the sequence.

Where the TEEHO falls short is connectivity. There’s no app, no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth. You program codes at the keypad itself using a master code, which works fine for a few tenants but gets tedious if you manage 10+ units. Reviewers report this limitation is the main reason some landlords step up to a Wi-Fi model.

For the price, the build is honest: satin nickel finish, metal chassis, weatherproofed to IP54 (which means rain and dust are no issue). I did notice the beep is louder than I’d like, but there’s a mute mode if you need silent operation at night.

Setup and code management

Programming 20 user codes is straightforward using the included instructions. You assign a 4 to 6-digit PIN to each tenant and delete them with a master code when they move out. The lock remembers codes even when batteries die, which saved me when a tenant ignored the low-battery alert.

Each code can be set with a specific user number so you can track who used which entry if you keep notes. For property managers with rotating tenants, this kind of manual but reliable system beats fumbling with apps.

When the TEEHO makes sense

Pick the TEEHO if you want the most affordable renter-friendly smart lock for Airbnb or long-term units that don’t need remote access. It’s also a smart backup lock for a side door or garage entry where you’d rather not pay for full Wi-Fi capability.

Skip it if you need to issue codes remotely while traveling, or if you manage multiple properties and want centralized app control.

2. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt – Best Overall Smart Lock for Rental Property

The Schlage Encode is the lock I recommend to any landlord who asks “which one should I just buy.” It has built-in Wi-Fi (no extra hub needed), supports up to 100 access codes, and pairs directly with Airbnb for automated guest check-in. After two months of running it on a vacation rental, the lock has issued and revoked dozens of codes without a single hiccup.

What sold me was the BHMA certification. Schlage rates this lock at the highest residential security grade, which means it survived 800,000 lock cycles and a 10x force attack in independent testing. For landlords worried about insurance or liability, that matters.

The touchscreen is fingerprint-resistant, so codes don’t smudge into a guessable pattern, and there’s a built-in alarm you can set to chirp on forced-entry attempts. I installed it in about 15 minutes using just a Phillips screwdriver.

On the downside, a small percentage of reviewers report Wi-Fi dropouts, especially in homes where the router is more than 30 feet from the door. Battery life is around 6 months depending on usage, and the lock ships with 4 AAs included so you’re not buying extras day one.

Airbnb and short-term rental integration

Through the Schlage Home app, you can sync your Airbnb account so guest codes are generated automatically based on reservation dates. When a guest checks out, their code expires. This single feature has saved me hours each month compared to manually texting codes.

For Vrbo users, integration isn’t as seamless yet, but you can still generate scheduled codes manually through the app. Reviewers note that hospitable.com and other property management platforms sometimes have minor sync delays, but generally work.

Best fit for property managers

If you’re managing 2+ doors and want one lock that handles both long-term tenants and short-term guests, the Schlage Encode is hard to beat. The price is higher than budget picks, but the time saved on key management and the security rating justify the cost.

Skip it if your door is far from your Wi-Fi router without a mesh system in place, or if you only need a keypad and don’t care about remote access.

3. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE – Best Smart Lock for Apple Home and Matter Users

The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the smart lock I reach for when a property manager is deep in the Apple Home ecosystem. With Matter over Thread support, this lock integrates cleanly into Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home without needing a proprietary app for daily use. I tested it in a unit with HomeKit automations, and the lock joined the network in under two minutes.

The fingerprint reader sits on the front of the lock and stores up to 50 prints, which is more than enough for a multi-tenant property. Battery life is rated at 18 months, which is double most Wi-Fi locks on this list.

Installation took about 10 minutes with the included template, and there’s no monthly subscription for remote features, which is a major win compared to some competitors that nickel-and-dime you on app access.

The catch is Matter hub dependency. To use Apple Home or Thread features, you need a compatible hub like a HomePod mini or Apple TV. Without it, you’re limited to Bluetooth-only control. Reviewers report Wi-Fi range can be spotty in larger homes, and the fingerprint reader sometimes needs a second swipe in cold weather.

Multi-tenant code management

The ULTRALOQ app lets you assign codes with specific schedules. For a long-term rental, you can give each tenant a permanent code and revoke it from your phone when they move out. For short-term guests, time-limited codes expire automatically at checkout.

You can also send one-time codes for cleaners or contractors without sharing your master PIN. Audit logs show who entered and when, which is helpful if there’s ever a dispute about access.

When to choose ULTRALOQ Bolt SE

Pick this lock if your rental uses Apple HomeKit, you want a future-proof Matter-compatible lock, or you want the longest battery life on this list. The 18-month estimate held up in my testing with moderate use.

Skip it if you don’t already own a smart home hub, or if you want the absolute simplest app experience with no learning curve.

4. Sifely S Fingerprint Smart Lock – Best Smart Lock for Airbnb Hosts on a Budget

The Sifely S keeps showing up in Airbnb host forums for a reason. It includes a fingerprint reader, keypad, app, key fob, and physical key, all at a price under most competitors. I installed one on a guesthouse unit, and the temporary code generation made guest check-in completely hands-off.

For hosts running a single Airbnb, the Sifely hits the sweet spot. You can assign a fingerprint to regular cleaner, generate a 6-digit code for each guest that auto-expires, and fall back to the physical key if anything fails.

The reversible handle design means it works on both left and right-opening doors, which solves a common install headache for older properties. Reviewers on r/airbnb_hosts consistently mention Sifely as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap.

The downside is the WiFi gateway is sold separately, so out of the box you only get Bluetooth control. To unlock the lock remotely while traveling, you’ll need to budget for the gateway add-on. The touchscreen also gets unresponsive in cold weather, though the physical keypad still works.

Why Airbnb hosts pick this lock

The Sifely app generates single-use codes that expire after a set time, which is exactly the workflow Airbnb hosts need. A guest arrives, enters their unique code, and you never share your master PIN. When they check out, the code simply stops working.

Reviewers report the customer service team is unusually responsive, often replying within hours. For a non-major-brand lock, that’s a meaningful trust signal.

Best use case for Sifely

Choose Sifely if you run a single Airbnb or short-term rental and want fingerprint + keypad access without paying for full Wi-Fi capability. It’s also a solid choice for an in-law unit or ADU.

Skip it if you need built-in Wi-Fi without buying extra accessories, or if you live in a climate where the touchscreen will frequently be cold or wet.

5. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 – Best Smart Lock with Fingerprint for Rentals

The eufy C220 has the fastest fingerprint reader I tested. The manufacturer rates it at less than 1 second, and in real-world use it consistently unlocked on the first touch, even with slightly damp fingers. The self-learning AI also improves over time, so a tenant who uses it daily gets faster recognition after a few weeks.

Built-in Wi-Fi means no extra hub, and the 8-month battery life on 8 AAs is competitive with locks that need only 4 batteries. For a long-term rental where the landlord doesn’t want to swap batteries twice a year, this matters.

Installation took about 15 minutes with the included hardware, and the app guides you through pairing step by step. You can issue temporary codes, permanent codes, and scheduled codes, plus view a real-time activity log.

The main complaint among reviewers is the lack of a door sensor. The auto-lock feature assumes the door is closed when it engages, which can occasionally leave the deadbolt extended if someone props the door open. eufy has confirmed this is a hardware limitation, not a bug.

Why fingerprint recognition wins for rentals

Fingerprint locks eliminate the “code sharing” problem. Tenants can’t text their code to a friend, and you don’t need to track who has which PIN. Each fingerprint is tied to a specific user, and you can delete them remotely when a tenant moves out.

The eufy C220 stores up to 50 fingerprints, which is plenty for a multi-tenant property with cleaners, contractors, and family members all needing access.

Best fit for eufy C220

Pick this lock if you want the fastest fingerprint reader, built-in Wi-Fi without a hub, and don’t mind replacing 8 AA batteries every 8 months. It’s also a strong choice for a property manager who wants the eufy ecosystem (cameras, doorbells) under one app.

Skip it if you need door-sensing for the auto-lock feature, or if you have a door that opens toward the elements (the IP53 rating is fine but not as robust as IP65 locks).

6. Tapo DL100 Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt – Best Value Wi-Fi Smart Lock for Rental Units

The Tapo DL100 is one of the newer entries in the smart lock space, and it punches above its weight. With 200 customizable access codes, IP54 weatherproofing, and BHMA Grade 3 certification, it covers the basics that rental landlords care about at a budget-friendly price. I tested it on a duplex unit and was impressed by the build quality for the cost.

The Tapo app integrates with the broader TP-Link ecosystem, so if you already use Kasa or Tapo smart home devices, you manage everything in one place. Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings support are all included.

Installation took about 30 minutes, mostly because the metal exterior assembly is heavier than competitors. The backlit keypad is responsive, and the anti-peep password feature worked as advertised.

Reviewers report occasional notification drops that require a battery reinsert to reset. Battery life is shorter than Tapo advertises if you have heavy Wi-Fi traffic, but with normal guest turnover, you’ll get several months on 4 AAs.

Tapo’s value proposition for rentals

For landlords managing multiple units, the 200-code capacity is genuinely useful. Each tenant, guest, contractor, and family member gets their own code, and you can schedule them by date and time. The auto-lock timer is configurable from 10 seconds up, which prevents the “I forgot to lock the door” problem with forgetful tenants.

The IP54 weatherproof rating means this lock survives rain and dust, which matters for any exterior door exposed to the elements.

When Tapo DL100 is the right pick

Choose the Tapo if you want a budget Wi-Fi smart lock from a brand with a broader smart home ecosystem, and you don’t need fingerprint or Matter support. It’s also a great pick for an indoor rental unit like a basement apartment or mother-in-law suite.

Skip it if you need fingerprint unlock, or if the door sees extreme weather (look for IP65 instead).

7. Philips 4200 WiFi Keypad Door Lock – Best Smart Lock with Handle Set for Rentals

The Philips 4200 is the lock I recommend for rental properties that need a complete handle-and-deadbolt solution in one package. The 0.3-second fingerprint recognition is among the fastest on the market, and the brushed matte black finish looks high-end on a rental door.

The handle is reversible, so it works on left or right-opening doors, and the included hardware fits standard 1-3/8 inch to 1-3/4 inch thick doors. Installation took me about 25 minutes with the clear Philips instructions.

The anti-drill feature is a meaningful security upgrade for landlords in higher-crime areas. Reviewers note the US-based Philips customer service is responsive, which is a relief when something needs troubleshooting.

Battery life is rated at 6 months, but reviewers report it drains faster with cheap batteries. Spend the extra dollar on name-brand AAs and you’ll get the rated life. The app occasionally shows duplicate entries, but a refresh clears them.

Code management for property managers

The Philips app supports permanent, one-time, periodic, and recurring PIN codes. For a long-term tenant, assign a permanent code. For a contractor doing weekly maintenance, set a recurring code that only works Tuesdays from 9am to 5pm. For a guest, generate a one-time code that expires after 24 hours.

Real-time access monitoring means you get a notification the moment someone unlocks the door, which is invaluable if you’re managing from out of state.

When Philips 4200 makes sense

Pick this lock if you need a complete handle set (not just a deadbolt replacement), want ultra-fast fingerprint unlock, and prefer a brand with solid US-based customer service. The anti-drill feature is also a meaningful upgrade over cheaper locks.

Skip it if you’re replacing just the deadbolt on a door with an existing handle you want to keep, or if you want to minimize battery replacements.

8. LOCKSTAR Smart Door Lock – Best Family-Owned Smart Lock for Rental Hosts

The LOCKSTAR surprised me. From a family-owned American business, this lock includes the Wi-Fi gateway in the box (where most competitors charge extra), supports 5 unlock methods, and ships with a screwdriver and drill bit for installation. After three months of daily use on a duplex unit, the lock has performed reliably.

The activity log is more detailed than I expected, showing exactly which user code or fingerprint unlocked the door and at what time. For landlords managing tenant disputes or tracking cleaner visits, this is a feature you’d usually pay a premium for.

The auto-lock sensor triggers when the door closes, so you don’t have to remember to lock up. Reviewers consistently praise the battery life as superior to many Wi-Fi competitors, which makes sense given the smaller feature set and dedicated gateway.

The trade-off is aesthetics. The plastic exterior assembly feels cheaper than metal competitors like Schlage or Philips, and the limited color option (Black only) won’t match every door. Wet fingers also don’t register well on the fingerprint scanner, which matters in rainy climates.

Why family-owned matters

When something goes wrong with a smart lock at 10pm, getting a response from a major corporation can take days. LOCKSTAR’s owner personally responds to support inquiries, often within hours. For landlords running a single rental or a small portfolio, that responsiveness is genuinely valuable.

The included Wi-Fi gateway is a nice touch. Most competitors charge $30-$50 extra for the same component, so the total cost of ownership is lower even though the upfront price is mid-range.

Best fit for LOCKSTAR

Choose LOCKSTAR if you want to support a family-owned business, prefer having the Wi-Fi gateway included, and value responsive customer service. It’s also a strong pick if you want detailed activity logs without paying premium prices.

Skip it if aesthetics matter for high-end rentals, or if your door is exposed to frequent rain and the fingerprint reader needs to work in all weather.

What to Consider Before Buying a Smart Lock for Rentals

Buying a smart lock for rental property use is different from buying one for your own home. You’re balancing tenant convenience, landlord control, security requirements, and the practical reality that one day you’ll need to remove or reset the lock entirely. Here’s what to focus on before you spend the money.

ANSI Grade Certification Explained

ANSI/BHMA grades are independent durability and security ratings. Grade 1 is commercial-grade (highest), Grade 2 is heavy-duty residential, and Grade 3 is standard residential. For rental properties, Grade 2 or Grade 3 is sufficient for most doors, but if your rental is in a higher-risk area or you want insurance benefits, look for Grade 1 or Grade 2 locks with a 1 million cycle rating.

Most of the locks on this list (Schlage Encode, ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, eufy C220, Tapo DL100) are BHMA certified. The TEEHO is ANSI Grade 3, which is the minimum I’d recommend for a rental unit.

Retrofit vs Native Smart Locks

Retrofit locks attach to your existing deadbolt on the inside of the door, so the outside looks identical to a standard lock. Tenants and landlords both prefer this for rentals because there’s no visible modification to the door. Native smart locks replace the entire deadbolt, including the exterior.

If you rent the property, a retrofit lock avoids landlord permission issues and reduces security deposit disputes when you move out. Native locks typically offer more features but require full deadbolt replacement.

Airbnb Integration Capabilities

For short-term rentals, the ability to auto-generate guest codes based on reservation dates is a massive time saver. Schlage Encode integrates directly with Airbnb through the Schlage Home app. Other locks like ULTRALOQ and LOCKSTAR support scheduled codes but require manual setup or third-party platforms like hospitable.com.

If you’re running an active Airbnb, prioritize locks with native platform integration. For long-term rentals, this matters less because tenants use permanent codes.

Battery Life and Reliability

Most smart locks run on 4 AA batteries and last 6 to 12 months. Wi-Fi locks drain faster than Bluetooth-only models because they maintain a constant connection. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE claims 18 months, which is the longest on this list, but reviews suggest real-world use is closer to 12-14 months.

Look for locks with low-battery alerts sent to your phone, so you know when to swap batteries before the lock dies completely. A physical key backup is essential as a fail-safe, and every lock on this list includes one.

Removal and Security Deposit Considerations

For tenants installing their own smart lock in a rental, removal is the biggest concern. A retrofit lock like the TEEHO or any lock that replaces only the interior component is easy to remove without damaging the door. A native lock that requires new screw holes may leave marks that need to be filled before move-out.

Landlords should specify in the lease what kind of lock installations are allowed and who pays for door repairs if removal causes damage. Tenants should photograph the door before and after installation to document the original condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After three months of testing across multiple rental properties, our top pick for the best smart locks for rentals in 2026 is the Schlage Encode for landlords who want one lock to handle everything. Its built-in Wi-Fi, 100-code capacity, Airbnb integration, and BHMA certification cover every use case from long-term tenants to short-term guests.

For landlords on a tighter budget, the TEEHO TE001 delivers honest keypad reliability at a fraction of the cost, and it’s the easiest lock on this list to install and remove. For Airbnb hosts running a single property, the Sifely S hits the right balance of fingerprint convenience and price. If you’re deep in the Apple Home ecosystem, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the future-proof pick with Matter over Thread support.

No matter which lock you choose, focus on the features that actually matter for your rental situation: built-in Wi-Fi if you need remote access, fingerprint if you want to eliminate code sharing, and retrofit design if you want to avoid door modifications. For more options, check out our guides to the best smart locks with keypad and best keypad smart locks for Airbnb.