Is the landlord allowed alarm code?

Counting_Pennies_2

Please excuse my ignorance, it has been well over a decade since we have rented.

We are in between homes at the moment while we plan to buy another, and have moved into rental.

What has frustrated me has been the landlord has set a code for the burglar alarm. He has left an instruction manual on the side with several pages taken out. Those including how to change the code.

I have looked on line and the manual basically says the code cannot be changed by the person who has the user code, that there is an operators code, assuming held by the owner.

I am not happy that not only does the owner/landlord have the sets of keys, (which of course he would have) but he also has the code to the alarm as well.

The landlord is giving indications of being quite hands on, in terms of correspondence and demands so far.

Even if we can change our code, it will make absolutely no difference because he will have the overall access code, so will be able to gain access.

Is it legal that he is allowed to have the overall alarm code? I had taken on the property happy in the knowledge it would be alarmed and that I would be secure in the knowledge only my family would have the access code.

I now feel distinctly unhappy

Thanks for your thoughts

anselld

just change the lock barrels and retain the old ones to fit at end of tenancy. You can then provide access by prior agreement for maintenance etc.

The owner is bound to have the alarm maintenance code, how else can it be maintained?

Counting_Pennies_2

anselld wrote: »

The owner is bound to have the alarm maintenance code, how else can it be maintained?

Thank you for your reply, there are 6 external UPVC doors so will be very expensive to change locks.

Our alarm at our old house has the capability of changing the code. I assumed the tenant would be required to either provide the code or change it back for agreed periods of access and end of tenancy

gordonbennet

I think it is reasonable that the LL has the overall access codes as it is his alarm and ultimately his property. You should however have the right to change your own code as you don't know how many people already know the current one. If it's a question of not trusting the LL though, that's another issue. If he's too 'hands on' you may want to write formally to him to remind him of your statutory right to quiet enjoyment.

Although you could potentially change the locks as suggested, do think about it. In the event of an emergency, if the LL needs to gain entry to protect the property when you're not there, you would be liable for any damage caused in gaining forced entry. As well as for any additional damage caused due to the delay getting in to attend to the emergency.

jjlandlord

Counting_Pennies wrote: »

I assumed the tenant would be required to either provide the code or change it back for agreed periods of access and end of tenancy

Yes, he obviously should.
If as landlord you cannot get the code from the tenant at the end of the tenancy and therefore must call in professional help you can deduct all costs from the tenant's deposit.

gordonbennet wrote: »

I think it is reasonable that the LL has the overall access codes as it is his alarm and ultimately his property.

During the tenancy, the property is in effect the tenant's. The tenant has no obligation to give the code to the landlord during that time.

gordonbennet wrote: »

Although you could potentially change the locks as suggested, do think about it. In the event of an emergency, if the LL needs to gain entry to protect the property when you're not there, you would be liable for any damage caused in gaining forced entry. As well as for any additional damage caused due to the delay getting in to attend to the emergency.

No.
The fact that the landlord has a right of access in case of emergency does not mean that he is free to break havoc: If he breaks the door he will have to replace it at his cost, not the tenant's.
Idem for any "additional damage" caused by any alleged delay. Attending to emergencies is the emergency services' job.

mchale

As you have done already google the alarm model but add "factory reset" this will give you instructions on how to set alarm panel
to "as new" settings, then you can input your own codes etc

pinkshoes

6 external UPVC doors?! Are you renting a mansion?!?!

I'd go with changing the locks. Buy second hand ones on ebay, or buy new ones then flog them on ebay at the end of the tenancy.