When a lock on a rental property breaks, especially a main-entry lock, the landlord is usually required to fix it quickly. It is because functional locks are essential for tenant safety and security. Coming to your query, how long does a landlord have to fix a broken lock? It is usually 24 hours.
Are Landlords Responsible for Door Locks?
Yes, under the legal doctrine of the “implied warranty of habitability,” a rental must be safe and secure, which includes having working exterior locks.
A broken front-door lock undermines security and tenancy habitability.
A dysfunctional lock can expose tenants to theft, forced entry, or other risks, so courts treat it as a serious issue more akin to an emergency than a cosmetic glitch.
For a broken main-entry lock, many jurisdictions consider repair within 24 to 48 hours as a “reasonable time.”
If the defect affects only an interior door or is less critical, the timeline may be more relaxed, up to 7 to 14 days.
For non-essential or cosmetic door issues (e.g., a squeaky hinge, minor latch problem), landlords are often given up to 30 days or more.
Always provide written notice to your landlord/agent describing the broken lock, date, and urgency (especially if it affects security). Keep a copy of the notice as proof that the repair time begins only after the landlord receives proper notice.
If the landlord fails to act in a reasonable time, depending on local laws, you may have remedies. It includes hiring a locksmith and deducting the cost from rent, filing a complaint with housing authorities, or, in serious cases, seeking lease termination under constructive eviction. Hope you found this answer helpful.
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How Long Does a Landlord Have to Fix a Broken Lock?
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2025-12-08T10:25:15+00:00 2025-12-08T10:25:17+00:00Comment
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