How to Eliminate Tenant Lockouts in Small Multifamily Properties

Eliminating Tentant Lockouts

One of the most common issues we see managing small multifamily rentals in Green County, Lafayette County, and Dodgeville is tenant lockouts. It’s frustrating for tenants—and a time suck for landlords.

But there’s a simple fix.

At Big Red Barn Property Management, we’ve developed a lock setup that practically eliminates tenant lockouts for good.


The Lock Setup That Prevents Lockouts

Here’s the method we use on every property we manage or rekey:

  • Install a passage knob on all exterior doors (this knob does not lock)
  • Pair it with a single keyed deadbolt

Why this works:

Tenants can’t accidentally lock themselves out by closing the door behind them. The only way to secure the unit is by using a key to lock the deadbolt—no more midnight lockouts.


Bonus Tip for Landlords: Kwikset SmartKey Locks

For small multifamily landlords across Green, Lafayette, and Iowa Counties, rekeying between tenants can add up fast. We recommend using Kwikset SmartKey Security deadbolts:

  • Rekey in under a minute
  • Keep all your units on one rekeying system
  • Save hundreds on locksmith calls

This setup gives you control and flexibility—great for local investors managing duplexes, triplexes, and quads in places like Monroe, Darlington, Argyle, Blanchardville, and Dodgeville.


Why This Matters

If you own a small rental portfolio in rural Wisconsin, this strategy:

  • Reduces emergency lockout calls
  • Saves on locksmith and maintenance costs
  • Speeds up turnover
  • Improves your tenant experience

These are the systems we use every day at Big Red Barn Properties to help local landlords run their properties more efficiently.


Let Us Help You Simplify Property Management

We specialize in small-town, small-multifamily property management throughout Green County, Lafayette County, and Dodgeville. If you’re looking to hand off day-to-day management, eliminate tenant headaches, and build a smoother rental operation—we’d love to connect.

👉 Reach out to Big Red Barn Property Management today.

Let’s simplify how you manage rentals in Southern Wisconsin.

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