Can my landlord change my smart lock code without telling me?

No, under Arizona law, landlords must notify tenants before changing locks or codes and cannot lock out tenants without a court order.

Is written notice still needed for entry with smart locks?

Yes, landlords in Arizona must provide at least 48 hours' written notice before entering your unit, regardless of lock type.

What should I do if I’m locked out or lose smart lock access?

Contact your landlord immediately. If access isn't restored promptly, document your request and contact the Arizona Attorney General’s Office or local justice court.

Who handles lockout or illegal entry complaints in Arizona?

The Arizona Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Division and your local Justice Court handle such complaints.

Where can I find official forms to report a privacy or lockout issue?

Visit the Arizona Judicial Branch's official Landlord-Tenant Forms page for required documents and next steps.

Smart Locks and Tenant Privacy Rights in Arizona Rentals

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Arizona published June 21, 2025

Smart locks are becoming common in Arizona rental homes, raising new questions for tenants about privacy and landlord entry. Whether your landlord has recently installed a keyless system or you're concerned about who can access your rental, understanding your rights under Arizona law is essential.

How Smart Locks Affect Tenant Privacy in Arizona

Smart locks let landlords control entry remotely and create electronic access records. While these features can improve security, they may also impact your right to privacy. Under Arizona law, tenants have clear protections around landlord access—no matter what type of lock is on the door.

Landlords must still give proper notice before entering, even with smart locks.
Tenants have the right to quiet enjoyment and privacy in their rental unit.
Smart locks may keep electronic logs of entry that both landlords and tenants should be aware of.

Arizona Law: Landlord Entry and Smart Locks

Arizona's main landlord-tenant law, the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, requires landlords to provide at least two days' (48 hours') notice before entering a tenant's home except for emergencies. This rule applies regardless of the security system or lock type in use.^[1]

Written notice can be given in person, by email, or by posting it on the main door.
Landlords cannot use smart lock remote access to enter without notice exceptfor emergencies (like fire, flood, or urgent repairs).
Tenants must not be locked out or have access removed without legal process.

Your Rights: Smart Locks and Access Codes

Tenants should always receive a working access code or key for any lock installed by the landlord. Smart lock systems should not allow a landlord to unilaterally change access without notice or a court order.

Arizona law prohibits landlords from purposely locking out tenants.^[1]
Any change to locks or codes should be communicated in advance to the tenant.
If your landlord changes the code without proper notice, contact them in writing stating your rights.

Tip: Ask your landlord to put in writing how smart lock access and entry requests will be handled before you sign a lease or accept installation.

Common Smart Lock Concerns for Arizona Renters

If you're worried about your privacy, consider these points:

Who gets access to your unit's electronic codes or app?
What data is stored about entry times, and who can view it?
Will you be notified before any lock or code change occurs?

If issues arise, keep a record of communications with your landlord, including requests for access or notifications of code changes.

Official Forms: Notices and Complaints

Arizona does not currently have a specific form for smart lock disputes. But if your landlord enters without the required notice or locks you out, use these forms:

Notice of Breach of Lease (Access Violation):
Use a written notice to inform your landlord of an illegal entry or lockout. State what happened and request immediate correction.
Example: "On [date], you entered my unit without required notice. Please respect my right to privacy under Arizona law going forward." Place this in writing and keep a copy.
Arizona Residential Eviction Action (Form AOC LJEA1F):
If you've been locked out or denied access, you can respond using this form and file with your local justice court. Details are on the Arizona Judicial Branch Self-Service Center.

In either case, it's best to try resolving the issue directly with your landlord before escalating to a formal complaint or court action.

Agency Oversight: Who Handles Tenant Complaints?

Landlord-tenant matters in Arizona are overseen by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office (Landlord-Tenant Division) and by local Justice Courts for legal filings and lockout disputes. You can contact these offices to file a complaint or get forms and information.

FAQ: Smart Locks and Tenant Privacy in Arizona

Can my landlord change my smart lock code without telling me?
No, Arizona law requires landlords to notify you of any change to locks or access. Sudden lockouts are prohibited unless by court order.
Is written notice still needed for entry with smart locks?
Yes, your landlord must provide at least 48 hours' notice before entering your home unless there is an emergency—even if entry is done digitally.
What should I do if I’m locked out or lose access to my smart lock?
Contact your landlord immediately, ask for access in writing, and keep records. If access is not restored promptly, consider reaching out to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office or your local justice court.
Who can I ask about data privacy with my smart lock?
Ask your landlord for the device’s privacy policy and who can access logs. Arizona law does not yet address smart lock data in detail, so be proactive with questions.
If my landlord refuses to give me a smart lock code, what are my options?
You have the right to access your unit. If your landlord refuses, send a formal written request and consult a tenant advocate or the Attorney General’s office if unresolved.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Arizona Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Division – Guidance and complaint process
Arizona Judicial Branch: Landlord-Tenant Forms – Official forms, including eviction actions and complaints
Arizona Department of Housing – Statewide housing information
AZCourtHelp – Guides and resources for rental disputes

Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Title 33, Chapter 10, see especially ARS § 33-1343 and § 33-1367 for entry and lockout rules.
Arizona Judicial Branch, Landlord-Tenant Forms and procedures.
Arizona Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Information for oversight and complaint information.