Can my landlord require smart locks in my Alaska rental?

Yes, landlords can install smart locks but must still follow legal notice and privacy rules.

Does my landlord have to give notice before using a smart lock to enter?

Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering, whether with a key or smart lock, except in emergencies.

Who do I contact if my landlord keeps entering without notice?

Contact the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit and send a written notice to your landlord.

Can I change my own smart lock code?

Request permission from your landlord and get any changes in writing.

What if I feel my privacy is violated by access logs?

Ask your landlord about data storage and, if concerned, document your issue and seek help from the Consumer Protection Unit.

Smart Locks and Tenant Privacy Rights in Alaska

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Alaska published June 21, 2025

Technology is changing rental properties across Alaska. More landlords are installing smart locks—electronic door locks that use codes, phones, or keycards instead of traditional keys. While these offer security and convenience, they also raise questions for renters about privacy, landlord access, and the law. This article explains what Alaska renters need to know about smart locks, privacy, and your legal protections.

What Are Smart Locks—And Why Do They Matter for Renters?

Smart locks are digital locks managed with apps, codes, or key fobs. Landlords often like them because lost keys are less of an issue. But these locks also store access logs and give property owners new ways to control entry. That means your privacy and the security of your home could feel different than with a standard lock.

Your Rights to Privacy and Entry Under Alaska Law

The Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects the privacy of tenants. Under Alaska law, your landlord:

Must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering your rental property except in emergencies
Can only enter at reasonable times, for specific reasons like repairs, inspections, or showing the unit
Cannot enter to harass you or without a valid reason

This applies whether you have traditional keys or modern smart locks. The law does not prevent a landlord from installing smart locks, but it does restrict how and when they can use their access.

Who Controls Smart Lock Access?

In most Alaska rentals, landlords retain a "master" or override to the smart lock. This means they may be able to see logs of who enters and when. As a tenant, you have a right to know who has access to your living space, and you can ask your landlord to explain who has codes and how your data is stored.

Common Privacy Concerns with Smart Locks

Access logs: Smart locks may record entry times and users. Your landlord should not share or misuse this data.
Changing codes: You may want to change your personal access code if roommates move out or you feel unsafe. Ask permission first and request written documentation for your records.
Landlord unlocking remotely: While remote unlock can be convenient in emergencies, it must follow Alaska’s notice guidelines for landlord entry.

It's important to communicate clearly with your landlord about who can access your rental and your expectations for privacy.

How to Address Privacy Issues or Unauthorized Entry

If you believe your landlord entered your home without proper notice or is misusing smart lock data, you have options:

Document: Keep records of entry times and communications. Screenshots of smart lock access logs or written communications can be useful.
Speak directly: Politely remind your landlord of Alaska’s entry laws (AS 34.03.140).
File a formal complaint: If the issue continues, you can file a complaint with the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit.

Key Alaska Forms and Where to Find Them

Notice to Landlord to Remedy (Form: "Tenant’s 10-Day Notice to Landlord to Remedy Violation")
Use if your landlord repeatedly enters without notice or does not address privacy concerns. This notifies the landlord of the violation and gives them 10 days to correct it.
Find the template in the Alaska Residential Landlord & Tenant Act Booklet (see page 51, "Sample 5").
Complaint Form to Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit
If discussions do not resolve privacy or entry issues, you may file a complaint through the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Complaint Portal. Complete their online form and attach your records.

For full legal protection, always provide notices in writing. Keep dated copies for your records and send important communications with proof of delivery.

Who Oversees Landlord-Tenant Issues in Alaska?

Alaska does not have a dedicated rental board or housing tribunal, but the Alaska Department of Law – Consumer Protection Unit handles landlord-tenant complaints. Disputes can also be resolved in Small Claims Court or District Court. For legal matters such as injunctions or unresolved issues, court filings may be needed.

If your landlord installs smart locks, ask them to provide a written explanation of how your data will be kept confidential and how you will be notified of any access.

FAQ: Smart Locks and Your Privacy as an Alaska Renter

Can my landlord require smart locks in my Alaska rental?
Yes, landlords may install smart locks, but they must meet all legal rules about notice and privacy. Always get written notification and updated instructions if the locks are changed.
Does my landlord have to give me notice before using a smart lock to enter?
Absolutely. Alaska law requires at least 24 hours’ written notice before any entry—regardless of whether it’s with a key or a smart lock, except in emergencies.
Who do I contact if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
You can file a written complaint with the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit and also consider sending a 10-day Notice to Remedy form to your landlord.
Can I change my own smart lock code?
You should request permission from your landlord before changing any codes, as some leases may forbid unauthorized changes. Get all changes or permissions in writing.
What if I feel my privacy is violated by access logs?
Ask how your landlord stores and uses smart lock data. If you believe they are misusing your information, document your concerns and seek help from the Consumer Protection Unit.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alaska Department of Law – Landlord/Tenant Resources: Guidance and forms for tenants' issues.
Consumer Complaint Form: File a complaint if your privacy rights are violated.
Alaska Court System – Self-Help Landlord & Tenant Portal: Guidance for court mediation and filing tenant claims.
Alaska Legal Services Corporation: Free or low-cost legal advice for tenants across Alaska.

Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, AS 34.03
Alaska Department of Law, Landlord-Tenant Information
Sample Forms, Alaska Residential Landlord & Tenant Act Booklet