Indiana Smart Locks: Tenant Privacy and Entry Rights

As more Indiana landlords consider installing smart locks, renters are asking important questions about privacy, access, and their legal rights. Understanding how Indiana law protects your privacy and regulates landlord entry—especially when digital devices are involved—can help you feel safe and empowered in your home.

How Indiana Law Views Privacy and Landlord Entry

The primary law protecting renter and landlord relationships in Indiana is the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 (Landlord-Tenant Relations)^[1]. While there is no state law that specifically addresses smart locks, your right to privacy and notice for entry is still covered.

• Landlords must provide reasonable notice before entering a rental unit, except in an emergency.
• Entry is allowed for repairs, inspections, or to show the unit to potential renters or buyers—but not for arbitrary reasons.
• Locks (including smart locks) must never be used to illegally lock a tenant out of the rental (‘self-help’ eviction is prohibited).

If your unit has a smart lock, your landlord should still give you notice and respect your privacy, just like with traditional locks.

What Are Smart Locks and Why Use Them?

Smart locks are digital door locks controlled by apps, keypads, or special cards instead of regular keys. Landlords may choose them for convenience or added security—and tenants may appreciate not needing to carry keys. But it also raises new concerns:

• Who has digital access to your door?
• Does the lock track who enters and when?
• What happens if there's a system malfunction or power outage?

Indiana law does not prohibit landlords from installing smart locks, but any changes to how you access your unit should be communicated in writing. If a landlord changes a lock (smart or otherwise), you should get free and immediate access to your updated code or key.

Your Right to Privacy with Smart Locks

Even with smart technology, your right to privacy is protected by law. Landlords should not use smart locks to monitor, harass, or enter your home without proper notice. Here’s what renters should keep in mind:

• Landlords should give reasonable advance notice (typically 24 hours unless it’s an emergency) before entering.
• You are entitled to exclusive possession of your rental. That means you control who enters, even with a smart lock, barring emergencies or lawful notice.
• If a smart lock tracks entry logs, ask who can access this data and how it's used. Tenants have a right to transparent information about data collection affecting their household.

Relevant Indiana Forms and How to Use Them

While there is no specific "smart lock" form, there are important Indiana forms for privacy and entry concerns:

• Indiana Tenant Complaint Form: Used to report privacy violations, harassment, or improper entry. For example, if your landlord enters with a smart lock code without notice, submit this form to your local housing enforcement office. Access the Indiana Attorney General's Complaint Form.
• Notice to Landlord Form: If you want to formally request that your landlord stop unauthorized access or address a smart lock concern, you can draft a written request (no official state template, but a signed and dated letter is acceptable). Keep a copy for your records.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Disputes?

For most rental issues in Indiana, including privacy and entry complaints, matters go to your local county Small Claims Court or civil court. There is no separate landlord-tenant board, but courts apply Indiana landlord-tenant law when resolving disputes.

Action Steps If You Have Smart Lock Concerns

• Communicate: Write to your landlord outlining your questions or concerns about the smart lock, data, or entry policies.
• Document: Keep records of all communications and instances of entry, especially if you suspect improper access.
• File a Complaint: If issues persist, consider submitting the Indiana Attorney General's Complaint Form or taking your case to small claims court.

Most entry and privacy disputes can be resolved through clear communication before escalating to legal action.

Frequently Asked Questions: Indiana Renters and Smart Locks

1. Can my landlord install a smart lock on my rental unit in Indiana?
   Yes, Indiana landlords may install smart locks. However, they must provide you with access and use the lock in line with privacy and entry laws.
2. Does my landlord need my permission to change to a smart lock?
   Landlords do not need your explicit permission to upgrade the lock, but must notify you and ensure you have immediate and free access to your home.
3. What if my landlord uses a smart lock to enter my apartment without notice?
   This is generally not allowed under Indiana law except for emergencies. You may submit a complaint or seek legal action if your right to notice or privacy is repeatedly violated.
4. Does my landlord need to share smart lock access logs with me?
   Indiana law does not require landlords to share digital entry logs, but you have a right to ask about who has access and how tracking information is stored or used.
5. Who handles legal disputes over smart lock privacy in Indiana?
   Disputes go to your local Small Claims or civil court, as Indiana has no specialized landlord-tenant tribunal.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Indiana law protects your right to privacy, even if your unit uses a smart lock.
• Your landlord must provide notice before entering, regardless of lock type.
• Document concerns and seek help if you experience unauthorized entries or privacy issues.

Smart locks can increase convenience, but renters have the right to secure, private homes under Indiana law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division (file complaints, get guidance)
• Indiana Local Courts Lookup (find your county Small Claims or circuit/civil court)
• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (housing resources and tenant information)
• Indiana Landlord-Tenant Statutes

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
2. Indiana Attorney General's Office – Filing a Complaint
3. Indiana Judicial Branch – Local Courts Directory

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