My Key Fob Isn’t Working: What To Do When Locked Out Of Your Apartment
There are few situations more stressful than not being able to get into your apartment or home. No matter how cautious or responsible you are, keys can be lost or broken, and key fobs can stop working for various reasons. Even with today’s tech developments and the ease of keyless entry systems, there remains the potential for lockout. So, what do you do if this happens to you?
Electronic Keys Versus Key Fobs
An increasing number of buildings in New York City are converting to keyless entry systems that use electronic key fobs to gain entry. These systems increase the security of the building and are an added layer of protection for tenants. By allowing only a limited number of key fobs per apartment, managers can protect against illegal tenants and illegal Airbnb renting. Since key fobs cannot be copied or replicated like a regular key can, both landlords and tenants have added control over who has access to their building and when. Despite these added benefits, electronic key systems can still malfunction or break, leaving residents stranded and locked out of their buildings.
How Smart Keys Work
Key Fobs and other electronic keys are known as smart keys. Today’s smart keys do not fit into a matching lock like standard keys do and instead operate via radio frequency signals. The transmitter in the key fob sends a signal to the remote device in the receiver, and when near the door, this short-range signal communicates for the door to unlock. Working instantaneously and without struggling to fit a key into the lock, these systems are meant to make life easier. But at times, they can also provide added challenges.
What if the Key Fob Stops Working?
When the apartment key fob is not working, there are several things you can investigate to determine why. Before calling for help, check to see if you are using the key correctly. If you were given a physical key as a backup, try using that instead.
The Key Fob’s Batteries are Dead
In most cases, the key fob quits operating because the battery has run out. Lithium batteries generally power key fobs, and these will eventually run out of juice. The standard key fob will run out of batteries after three to four years. When this occurs, the battery will lose its charge, and the signal can no longer reach its destination, leaving you stuck outside.
First, try replacing the battery. You can visit a local corner or convenience store to get the batteries, or order one online. To replace the battery, look up a tutorial online based on the model of your fob. The fob may have an engraving on it that includes a make and model. Otherwise, you can try prying open the edge of the fob with a knife or other slim tool.
The Key Fob has Lost Connection
Keyless entry systems run on electricity and may not be hooked up to a backup generator. In this case, any sort of power outage could leave residents outside. Some residents report their electronic keys won’t work if the building’s Wi-Fi is down. If this is the case, you will need to contact your landlord for help and assistance to gain entry to the building. Some buildings have a back or side entry that you can use instead, or the landlord might have to prop the door open until the power has been restored.
The Key Fob has Mechanical Damage
Another issue could be mechanical damage. Think of all the stress our keys go through. Keys are put in our pockets, sat on, and dropped on the ground. Daily wear and tear can damage the technology within the fob beyond working condition. If replacing the battery doesn’t work, try opening the fob again and look for any signs of damage. This would include cracks in the caging or circuit board, oxidized or calcified battery, and buttons or electronic components that are not connecting to the circuit board.
If the key fob appears to be working correctly and does not have noticeable damaged, yet you still can’t gain entry, there could be damage to the receiving component within the door. If there is damage to the door or lock panel on your front door, it’s possible the signal cannot complete between key and door. In this case, contact your landlord or building manager to gain entry and find a solution. If these efforts have been made and the landlord cannot be reached, call 311 or contact the New York City Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) for assistance.
Troubleshooting Issues with Standard Lock Keys
If you use standard keys and worry about losing them, one idea is to leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend. Your building’s landlord has a master set of keys and can be contacted to make you a new set, although many buildings charge a fee for issuing replacement keys. If all efforts have been made and the landlord cannot be reached, call 311 or contact HPD.
Additional Tips for Renters
Renters may also have the following questions about accessing their fob key apartment:
What If I’m Locked Out of My Apartment After Hours?
Many landlords and property managers operate between business hours, and if you get locked out after their office closes, you probably will not be able to get in contact with them. Some property managers have an emergency extension that you can access by calling their main number, so it’s still worth giving this a try. If this does not work, you can try calling your super or porter, but they also may not answer.
Once you’ve called everyone in your building who could provide access to the property, it’s time to call a 24-hour locksmith. There are plenty of providers across the five boroughs who help with emergency lockouts. When you’re on the phone with them, make sure to clarify that you have a key fob and not a physical key. The locksmith will likely charge a couple of hundred dollars to help you regain access to your apartment.
What If the Key Fob Consistently Fails?
If gaining access to your building is a recurring issue, action can be taken to protect your right to apartment access. Many buildings have an alternate entrance on the side or back of the building that uses a regular key. Ask your landlord what options there are to gain entry should your keys stop working. It’s best to have a plan in advance so you don’t feel stranded if the issue arises.
”You could try to find out what the key fob system is and get in touch with the manufacturer,” advises William Gribben, a specialist in tenant rights and partner for the law firm HMG&J, “Find out from a mechanical point of view what can be done. If nobody can get into the building, there needs to be a backup system when the key fob doesn’t work. Either the building management could leave a door open with a security guard posted there or have an old-fashioned lock on the door.”
If the landlord is unresponsive and unwilling to help, you can file a complaint with the HPD to bring attention to the issue. Landlords must provide tenants with 24/7 access to their dwelling, and it is within your rights to make the property owner resolve the issue. If other tenants have the same problem, it could help to approach the landlord as a group to request a solution.
Can I Copy My Apartment Key?
You will not be able to copy your key fob the way you would copy a physical key at a hardware store. This appeals to many building owners because it limits unwanted guests’ access to the property.
If you lose your key fob, let your landlord know immediately. You’ll likely need to pay a few to get a new fob. When you sign your lease and move into the building, the owner should supply you with enough fobs for everyone who accesses the unit by themselves.
Conclusion
Hopefully this will never be a problem you experience, but it’s always best to know your options beforehand. Losing your keys or being unable to get inside your apartment can be very scary, and being prepared with either spare keys or alternative solutions for entry is wise preventative action.
