Managing tenants or short-stay guests can be challenging - lost keys, late check-ins, lock changes, and security worries are problems every landlord or Airbnb host knows too well.
Smart locks have become one of the fastest-growing upgrades for UK rentals because they eliminate key-related issues, reduce operational stress, improve security, and massively streamline guest access.
In this guide, we break down the hidden benefits of smart locks for rental properties and why the WME DL1 and DL2 Smart Locks are becoming the preferred choice for landlords, Airbnb hosts, serviced accommodation providers, and multi-property managers.
Why Smart Locks Are a Game-Changer for Landlords & Airbnb Hosts
1. No More Lost Keys or Costly Replacements
Traditional keys get lost constantly - leading to:
- £50–£120 call-out fees
- Lock replacements between £80–£200
- Security risks if tenants fail to return keys
- Delays between check-ins
Smart locks remove all of this.
With the WME DL1 and DL2, guests receive a digital PIN, NFC card, or temporary code, meaning there’s no physical key to lose - and no expensive emergency locksmith calls.
👉 Perfect for high-turnover rentals.
2. Remote Check-In & Check-Out — No More Waiting Around
Whether you manage one property or twenty, waiting for guests to arrive is time-consuming.
Smart locks allow:
- Remote unlock via the app
- Temporary guest codes
- Auto-expiring stay codes
- Instant lock/unlock confirmation
With the DL2, you can send a new guest their access code within seconds - even if you’re miles away.
👉 Ideal for Airbnb self-check-in listings.
3. Stronger Security & Full Access Logs
Traditional locks offer no visibility of who enters or when.
Smart locks provide:
- Time-stamped entry logs
- Door status notifications
- Failed attempt alerts
- Anti-tamper protection
- Auto-locking (DL2)
This is particularly useful for:
- Dispute resolution ("guest says the cleaner didn't arrive")
- Vetting unauthorised access
- Protecting high-value apartments
👉 DL2 includes a built-in door-status sensor so you can confirm whether the door is open or closed - a massive benefit for landlords.
4. Time-Limited Codes for Cleaners, Trades & Staff
Staff access is one of the biggest hidden challenges in rental management.
Smart locks allow you to:
- Issue recurring access codes for cleaners
- Create one-time PINs for tradespeople
- Provide 24-hour guest extensions without visiting the property
- Revoke access instantly
This improves security and removes the stress of coordinating key handovers.
5. Perfect for HMO, Multi-Let & Student Accommodation
Landlords with HMO properties often struggle with:
- Tenants duplicating keys
- Keys breaking inside locks
- Moves in/out at awkward hours
- Security risks between tenancies
Smart locks offer:
- Individual user profiles
- Audit trails
- Code management per tenant
- No need to physically meet tenants
👉 The DL1 is excellent for internal doors in HMOs.
👉 The DL2 is perfect for main entrances with multipoint mechanisms.
6. Increase Property Appeal & Booking Rates
Airbnb listings that include “Smart Lock Self Check-in” consistently:
- Rank higher in searches
- Attract more bookings
- Reduce negative access-related reviews
- Improve guest satisfaction
UK tenants increasingly see smart security as an essential feature - especially young professionals, students, and co-living renters.
👉 A smart lock is now a modern property upgrade that improves rental value.
7. No Complicated Installation - Designed for UK Doors
The WME DL2 is engineered specifically for UK uPVC, composite and wooden doors with a multipoint system. It installs in minutes.
The WME DL1 is ideal for:
- Wooden doors
- Internal rooms
- Office spaces
- HMOs
Both offer simple DIY installation, making them landlord-friendly with no specialist tools required.
📌 WME also provides full setup guides, videos, and online support.
8. Lower Operational Costs Over Time
Smart locks reduce long-term costs by eliminating:
- Locksmith visits
- Key cutting
- Tenant lockouts
- Time spent travelling to properties
- Replacing full lock systems after a lost key
The DL2 uses AA batteries with a low-battery warning, reducing maintenance surprises.
9. Works Perfectly with CCTV & Access Control
Landlords who want a more robust security setup can pair smart locks with:
This gives a complete record of:
- Who accessed the door
- When
- What happened outside
👉 Excellent for short-term rentals and remote property management.
10. Bulk Discounts for Trade & Multi-Property Owners
Landlords, Airbnb operators, and property managers benefit from:
- Up to 35% trade discount
- Priority shipping
- UK-based warranty & support
WME is one of the only UK smart lock suppliers offering bulk pricing for portfolio owners.
Which Smart Lock Should Landlords Choose?
Best Overall: WME DL2 Smart Lock
Perfect for:
- Airbnb properties
- Front doors
- Multi-point locking systems
- Remote management
Security features:
- PIN, App, NFC, Fingerprint
- Auto-locking
- Door status sensor
- Temporary passwords
- Anti-tamper design
Best Budget-Friendly Choice: WME DL1 Smart Lock
Perfect for:
- Internal HMO rooms
- Offices
- Bedrooms
- Wooden doors
Security features:
- PIN & RFID access
- Strong keypad
- Easy installation
Why Landlords & Airbnb Hosts Should Switch to Smart Locks
Smart locks offer far more than convenience - they solve real, expensive problems landlords face every day.
They help you:
✔ Save time
✔ Reduce operating costs
✔ Improve security
✔ Increase booking rates
✔ Manage properties remotely
✔ Prevent key-related issues
With the WME DL2 and DL1, UK landlords get a reliable, secure, modern solution designed for real rental needs.
