Lock out situation

[Thierry1118]

Hi. What is the best setup in case of a smart lock issue? Should I provide a hard key to the housekeeping staff or a locksmith company?

I don’t mind giving a key to housekeeping, but I would like them to try the smart key/code first and inform me if it doesn’t work so I can address the issue.

As for a locksmith, I’m not sure if they offer this type of service.

Any other option? And if the guests show up late and the lock is not working. I bought a good smart lock but we never know!

[Alex]

Thank you for sharing the link, @Jacqueline1624 ! Hopefully Thierry can see your message and use this idea. 🔐

[Patricia2526]

Hi @Thierry1118 

We have both a smart lock and a lockbox for added convenience. In the event that the smart lock fails to work, guests can access the lockbox to retrieve a physical key. This helps minimize unnecessary travel for us and prevents any delays for our guests.

 

[Alex]

This is such a great suggestion, @Patricia2526! I'm sure @Thierry1118 will appreciate this.If you could only use one of them, which would you choose: the smart lock or the lockbox? 👀

[Patricia2526]

Hi @Alex 

Smart lock! Our smart locks provide a seamless check-in and checkout experience for our guests. We can schedule access based on their reservation, ensuring they can only enter the property during their stay and preventing re-entry after checkout. Before their arrival, we send each guest a unique access code along with step-by-step instructions on how to use the lock. For added convenience and in case of any technical issues, we also have a lockbox as a backup. 

[Alex]

This is so good to know! Definitely a great tip. Hopefully, Thierry will read this and use your suggestion.

Best, 

Alex

[Justin2179]

I hide a hard key on my property, just in case. I've only had to use it once, thankfully. It saved myself, my cleaner, and the guest a lot of heartache and time! 

[Andrew-and-Jeremy0]

This is one of those things you hope never happens but will eventually, so it’s smart to plan ahead now.

Here’s what we do and it’s worked great:

Mount a lockbox somewhere discreet on the property (we like a wall-mounted one, not hanging on the knob) and keep a hard key inside. That way, if the smart lock ever fails—dead batteries, Wi-Fi glitch, or something random—you can always fall back on giving out the lockbox code.

We keep spare batteries inside the unit (clearly labeled, easy to find) in case the issue is battery-related and someone needs to swap them.

And yep, totally fine to let your housekeeper know the hard key exists, but I’d make the lockbox your main “Plan B,” not a person. That way, you’re not relying on anyone’s schedule or availability, especially for late-night guest check-ins.

You’re absolutely right: even the best smart locks have their moments. Having that low-tech backup gives you total peace of mind.