Moving Into a Student Rental in Surrey? Why You Should Ask Your Landlord to Change the Locks

A student rental lock change is one of the simplest ways to feel secure in a new home. You might be moving in near Royal Holloway in Egham, sharing a house in Staines-upon-Thames, or renting a flat in Windsor or Slough. You will probably check the Wi-Fi and the heating first. However, one question often gets missed: who else has a key to your front door?

This guide is for students renting privately. If you live in university halls, check your accommodation provider’s rules first.

Quick answer: Previous tenants, former housemates, letting agents and contractors may still hold keys to a student rental. A student rental lock change removes that uncertainty. Check your tenancy agreement, ask your landlord or letting agent in writing, and never change the locks without permission.

Who Might Still Have a Key to Your Student House?

You will usually receive one set of keys and assume that is all there is. In reality, you rarely know the full history of those keys. Student houses are especially hard to track, because housemates come and go during the year.

Keys may have been held by:

• Previous tenants
• Former housemates who left mid-tenancy
• Landlords and letting agents who keep spares
• Cleaners, contractors and property managers
• Friends or family of past occupants

In most cases, nobody means any harm. Even so, you cannot always tell how many copies exist or who has them.

Why a Student Rental Lock Change Matters in Autumn

September and October are the busiest months for student moves. Many houses change hands within a few weeks of each other. The clocks also go back on 25 October 2026, so evenings get dark much earlier.

Student homes often hold laptops, bikes, phones and other valuable items. You do not need to assume there is a problem. Instead, treat a lock check like testing your smoke alarms: a sensible part of any move-in routine.

How to Ask Your Landlord About a Lock Change

First, do not change the locks yourself. Many tenancy agreements require written permission before you alter locks or fit extra security. Acting alone could also cause problems with your deposit.

Instead, follow these steps:

1. Read your tenancy agreement.
2. Ask your landlord or letting agent whether the locks were changed after the last tenancy.
3. Ask how many keys were issued, and who else holds one.
4. If you want a replacement, get permission in writing.
5. Agree who will pay before any work starts.

A short message is enough:

“Hi [Name], I’ve just moved into [address] and wanted to ask whether the locks were changed after the previous tenancy. I’m not sure how many keys are in circulation. Would you be happy to arrange a lock change, or allow me to arrange one with your permission? I’m happy to get a quote from a local locksmith if that helps. Thanks.”

Sending the request in writing gives you a record and keeps things friendly. Many landlords agree, because a lock change is usually inexpensive and also protects their property.

What If Your Landlord Says No?

Your landlord may have changed the locks already. If so, you may not need to do anything else.

If a full lock change is not possible, you can still:

• Ask for a list of the keys issued
• Ask whether replacing only the cylinder would be an option
• Request permission for extra security, such as a thumb-turn cylinder
• Report any damaged or faulty locks
• Keep a written record of your request and the reply

For general guidance on your rights, see Shelter and GOV.UK’s private renting advice. Rules vary between tenancies, so always check your own agreement.

What Does a Student Rental Lock Change Involve?

A lock change does not always mean replacing the whole lock. Often, a locksmith only needs to replace the cylinder, and the work usually causes no damage to the door. Depending on your door, options include:

• Cylinder replacement: the most common job, and usually quick
• Anti-snap cylinder upgrade: designed to resist lock snapping, a method used against some euro cylinders
• UPVC door lock replacement: many student homes have UPVC doors with multipoint locks, so a locksmith can check whether the cylinder or the mechanism needs attention
• Lock inspection: if you are unsure, a locksmith can check the lock and explain your options

Do not forget the other entrances. Check the back door, side entrance, patio doors and ground-floor windows. Report any faults to your landlord or agent.

Who Pays for a Lock Change in a Student Rental?

There is no single answer. It depends on your tenancy agreement, why the lock needs changing and what you agree with your landlord. For example, a faulty lock is often the landlord’s responsibility. Lost keys may be handled differently.

If you have lost your keys, tell your landlord or agent straight away. Do not simply copy a key you believe someone else could find.

Whatever the situation, agree on the cost in writing before the work begins.

What If You Have Lost Your Student Rental Keys?

Losing your keys is different from wanting a new lock for peace of mind. If you have lost your keys, or someone has stolen them, tell your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible. Depending on the situation, they may want to arrange a replacement lock or cylinder.

Do not assume that copying another key solves the problem. If someone else could find the original key, the lock is still at risk. Likewise, if the stolen keys had your address on them, tell your landlord or agent immediately and explain what happened.

If you are locked out right now, read our guide on what to do first. 

Tips for Parents Helping a Student Move Into a Rental

If you are helping your child move into student accommodation, a few simple checks can make the move easier. Before or shortly after moving in:

• Check that the main entrance locks properly and the door closes securely.
• Test the key in the lock.
• Ask the landlord how the keys are managed.
• Ask whether the locks were changed after the previous tenants.
• Find out who to contact about lock problems.
• Report any damaged or faulty locks.
• Save the landlord or letting agent’s contact details.
• Keep a local locksmith’s number handy in case of an emergency.
• These checks only take a few minutes. However, they can help you avoid problems later.

Student Rental Lock Change FAQs for Staines-upon-Thames

Can a locksmith change my locks in a rented property in Staines-upon-Thames?

Yes, where the work is authorised. As a tenant, check your tenancy agreement and ask your landlord or letting agent first. After that, a locksmith can quote and book a convenient time.

Do I need my landlord’s permission?

Check your tenancy agreement first. Many agreements set rules about changing locks. Getting permission in writing is the safest approach.

Should I ask for a lock change when moving in?

It is worth asking. Find out whether the locks were changed after the last tenancy. If there is any doubt, ask your landlord about a cylinder replacement.

How long does a lock change take?

A straightforward cylinder replacement is often quick. However, the time depends on the lock type, the condition of the door and whether other repairs are needed.

What if my UPVC door is hard to lock?

Do not keep forcing the key or handle. A stiff lock can come from a worn cylinder, a faulty multipoint mechanism or door alignment. Report it to your landlord and arrange professional help.

Do you cover Egham, Windsor and Slough?

Yes. Manuel the Locksmith is based in Staines-upon-Thames and covers Egham, Windsor, Slough, Chertsey, Weybridge, Ashford and nearby areas across Surrey, Middlesex and Berkshire.

Need a Lock Change in Staines-upon-Thames or Nearby?

Moving into a student rental is a good opportunity to check that your doors and locks are working properly.

If your landlord or letting agent has approved a lock change, Manuel the Locksmith can help with lock replacement and related locksmith services, including non-destructive entry if you are locked out. I am based in Staines-upon-Thames and cover:

• Surrey: Staines-upon-Thames, Chertsey, Egham, Weybridge, Walton-on-Thames, Virginia Water, Woking, Cobham, Addlestone
• Middlesex: Ashford, Sunbury-on-Thames, Shepperton
• Berkshire: Windsor, Slough, Ascot, Old Windsor, Wraysbury

You get a clear price before any work starts, and no extra charge for your postcode. If you are a tenant, landlord or letting agent, contact Manuel to discuss the job and arrange a suitable time or call 073 9999 2424.