Best Door Hardware Brands for Rental Properties 2025

Smart property owners understand that investing in reputable door hardware brands prevents security incidents, reduces locksmith expenses, and provides tenants with the peace of mind they expect. PropertyBuild has researched the top market leaders to help you discover which door hardware brands deliver the ideal balance of security, re-keying convenience, and value.

Top 10 List of Best Door Hardware Brands

August – Smart locks keyless entry systems
Baldwin – Premium luxury decorative door hardware
Corbin Russwin – Commercial-grade institutional door hardware systems
Defiant – Affordable budget residential door hardware
Emtek – Customizable decorative door hardware designs
Kwikset – Affordable SmartKey re-keyable residential locks
Medeco – High-security pick-resistant lock systems
SARGENT – Heavy-duty commercial institutional door hardware
Schlage – Reliable residential commercial security hardware
Yale – Traditional smart locks proven performance

Leading door hardware brands have distinguished themselves through security innovation, rigorous testing, and consistent product quality that addresses the demanding requirements of rental properties. These manufacturers understand that rental properties need different solutions than owner-occupied homes, offering specialized products from quick-change lock cores to the best door handles for a rental property that streamline tenant transitions and enhance security management. Below we take a look at the top 10 door hardware brands that continue to set industry standards (or jump straight to our top pick for What is the Best Door Hardware Brand for a Rental Property).

August

August specializes in smart locks and keyless entry systems with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, offering modern access control solutions that enable remote management, temporary access codes, and smartphone control ideal for tech-forward rental properties seeking convenient security management.

Baldwin

Baldwin manufactures premium decorative door hardware including handlesets, knobs, and levers with emphasis on luxury design and solid brass construction, providing high-end architectural hardware that combines elegant aesthetics with reliable performance for upscale residential and commercial properties.

Corbin Russwin

Corbin Russwin produces commercial-grade door hardware and access control systems with focus on institutional durability and security, offering heavy-duty locks, exit devices, and master key systems designed for demanding applications in multi-family housing, schools, and commercial buildings.

Defiant

Defiant offers affordable residential door hardware including deadbolts, knobs, and levers sold exclusively through Home Depot, providing budget-friendly security solutions that deliver basic functionality and acceptable quality for cost-conscious rental property owners seeking economical lock replacement options.

Emtek

Emtek creates customizable decorative door hardware with emphasis on design variety and quality craftsmanship, offering extensive finish options and unique styles that allow property owners to achieve distinctive aesthetics while maintaining security standards for residential and boutique commercial applications.

Kwikset

Kwikset manufactures affordable residential door hardware featuring SmartKey re-key technology and various security grades, providing cost-effective locks, deadbolts, and smart lock options that balance functionality with budget considerations for rental properties and residential applications requiring frequent re-keying capabilities.

Medeco

Medeco produces high-security mechanical and electronic locks with patented key control and pick-resistant technology, offering premium security solutions for properties requiring maximum protection, restricted key duplication, and advanced access control capabilities suitable for high-value rental properties and commercial facilities.

SARGENT

SARGENT manufactures commercial door hardware and access control systems with emphasis on institutional durability and reliability, providing heavy-duty locks, exit devices, and electronic access solutions designed for demanding multi-family, educational, healthcare, and government facility applications requiring long-term performance.

Schlage

Schlage delivers comprehensive residential and commercial door hardware with SmartKey technology and electronic access options, offering reliable security solutions that combine durability, advanced features, and extensive product lines suitable for diverse rental property applications from single-family homes to large commercial buildings.

Yale

Yale produces traditional and smart locks with over 180 years of manufacturing history, offering keyless entry systems, conventional deadbolts, and smart home integration capabilities that provide reliable security solutions for residential and light commercial rental properties seeking proven performance and modern connectivity.

Ranking Methodology

Our ranking methodology evaluates door hardware brands based on key factors that matter most to rental property owners, property managers, and security professionals. We assessed each brand across multiple criteria to provide an objective comparison of their value proposition for delivering secure, durable, and cost-effective door hardware solutions for rental property applications.

Ranking Criteria for 10 Best Door Hardware Brands:

Security & Durability – Lock strength, pick resistance, forced entry protection, longevity under heavy use
Re-keying Capability – Ease of key changes between tenants, master key system compatibility, cost of re-keying
Rental Property Suitability – Tenant-proof design, tamper resistance, maintenance ease, withstand frequent use
Installation & Maintenance – Installation complexity, standard door compatibility, replacement part availability
Cost Effectiveness – Initial purchase price, installation costs, re-keying expenses, and overall lifecycle value
Smart Technology Features – Keyless entry options, remote access, temporary code generation
Brand Reputation & Support – Industry standing, locksmith preferences, warranty coverage, and customer service
Availability & Compatibility – Product accessibility, local supplier networks, standard sizing compatibility

What is the Best Door Hardware Brand for a Rental Property?

Kwikset

Why We Like Kwikset – Kwikset is our top choice because it checks all the most important boxes for a rental property: cost-effective, reliable security, and innovative re-key technology (SmartKey) that allows property managers to change locks in seconds without calling a locksmith. The brand also offers excellent product availability through major retailers, competitive pricing that fits rental property budgets, and a range of styles from basic to smart locks that suit different property types and tenant preferences.

Kwikset Website

What are Door Hardware Brands?

Door Hardware Brands for Rental Properties

Door Hardware Brand Definition

Door hardware brands are manufacturers and companies that design, produce, and market door locks, deadbolts, handles, hinges, access control systems, and related security components for residential, commercial, and institutional building applications.

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Calculating Locksmith Costs

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Door Hardware Brand FAQ

How Do I Choose the Right Door Hardware for My Rental Property?

Selecting appropriate door hardware for rental properties requires careful consideration of factors that balance security, durability, re-keying convenience, and cost-effectiveness for high-turnover environments. A systematic approach to hardware selection ensures you invest in locks that protect tenants while streamlining property management operations.

Security Level Required – Assess neighborhood crime rates, property value, and insurance requirements to determine necessary security grade
Re-keying Frequency – Consider tenant turnover rates and choose brands with easy, cost-effective re-keying solutions
Durability Requirements – Select hardware rated for heavy use that can withstand frequent operation and potential tenant misuse
Budget Constraints – Balance upfront costs with long-term expenses including installation, maintenance, and re-keying
Smart Lock Consideration – Evaluate whether keyless entry and remote access justify higher costs for your property type
Installation Compatibility – Verify hardware fits standard door preparations to avoid costly modifications
Local Locksmith Support – Ensure chosen brands are supported by local locksmiths for emergency services and re-keying
Tenant Convenience – Consider ease of use and modern features that enhance tenant satisfaction and property appeal

Which Door Hardware Works Best for Different Types of Rental Properties?

Different rental property types require specific door hardware solutions that address varying security needs, tenant demographics, and management approaches. Understanding which products work best for each rental category helps property owners make informed decisions that optimize security and operational efficiency.

Property Type	Recommended Hardware	Best Brands	Key Considerations
Single-Family Rentals	Grade 2 deadbolts, SmartKey locks	Kwikset, Schlage	Easy re-keying, residential aesthetic, moderate security
Multi-Family Complexes	Master key systems, Grade 1 locks	Schlage, Corbin Russwin	Master keying, durability, standardization
Student Housing	Heavy-duty locks, smart locks	Schlage, Yale	Abuse resistance, remote management, audit trails
Luxury Rentals	Designer hardware, smart locks	Baldwin, Emtek, August	Aesthetic appeal, advanced features, premium security
Commercial Rentals	Commercial-grade, access control	SARGENT, Corbin Russwin	Heavy-duty rating, electronic access, compliance
Vacation Rentals	Smart locks, keyless entry	August, Yale, Schlage	Remote access, code changes, guest convenience
Senior Housing	Lever handles, accessible hardware	Schlage, Baldwin	ADA compliance, ease of operation, visibility
Budget Rentals	Basic security, affordable options	Defiant, Kwikset	Cost-effectiveness, adequate security, availability

Should I Install Smart Locks or Traditional Locks in My Rental Property?

Smart locks offer significant advantages for rental properties including remote access management, elimination of physical keys, temporary code generation for contractors, and audit trails of entry activity. Brands like August, Yale, and Schlage provide reliable smart lock options that reduce re-keying costs and streamline tenant transitions. However, consider potential drawbacks including higher upfront costs ($150-300 vs. $30-80), battery maintenance requirements, technology learning curves for tenants, and potential connectivity issues. Smart locks work best for vacation rentals, luxury properties, and tech-savvy tenant demographics, while traditional locks with SmartKey technology may be more practical for budget properties and tenants uncomfortable with technology.

What Security Features Should I Look for in Rental Property Door Hardware?

Essential security features include ANSI Grade 2 or higher rating, deadbolts with at least 1-inch throw, reinforced strike plates with 3-inch screws, pick-resistant cylinders, and drill-resistant construction. Look for locks with anti-saw pins, hardened steel inserts, and bump-resistant technology to prevent common bypass methods. For higher security needs, consider restricted keyway systems from brands like Medeco that prevent unauthorized key duplication. Smart locks should include encryption, automatic locking features, and tamper alerts. Also verify locks meet local fire codes and have proper UL ratings for security and fire safety compliance.

How Long Do Door Locks Typically Last in Rental Properties?

Quality door locks in rental properties typically last 7-15 years depending on usage frequency, tenant care, and lock quality. Grade 1 commercial locks from brands like Schlage and SARGENT often exceed 15 years in rental applications, while Grade 2 residential locks may need replacement after 7-10 years of heavy use. Smart locks typically have shorter lifespans of 5-10 years due to electronic component wear and technology obsolescence. Signs indicating replacement needs include difficulty turning keys, loose components, visible damage, frequent jamming, or security concerns after break-in attempts. Regular maintenance including lubrication and tightening can extend lock lifespan significantly.