Free word search
Category
The Future of Rental Management: Enhancing Living and Security with IoT
2026.05.28
.png)
In recent years, the term “IoT” has appeared more frequently in the housing market. Originally expanding from detached homes and condominiums, IoT technology is now gaining attention in rental properties as well, giving rise to what is known as “smart rentals.”
In this column, we focus on the future of property management and introduce one of the most representative IoT devices—smart locks—along with their advantages and key considerations.
What Is IoT?
IoT stands for the “Internet of Things.” It refers to a system in which not only home appliances but various physical objects are connected to the internet, enabling them to exchange information and control one another.
In the housing sector, common examples include connecting door locks, lighting, air conditioners, and curtains to the internet so they can be operated remotely via smartphone. Smart speakers, which allow users to play music or set alarms through voice commands, are also a typical example of IoT technology.
Differentiating Properties with Smart Rental Features
In recent years, particularly in newly built rental apartments, IoT equipment has increasingly been installed as a way to differentiate properties from competitors. Some IoT devices can be added without replacing existing equipment, making it easier to introduce them to existing rental properties during tenant turnover or renovation.
.png)
Smart Locks: Enhancing Security
Among IoT devices that align well with tenant needs and property value enhancement, smart locks are one of the most notable examples.
Smart locks allow doors to be locked and unlocked using smartphones, IC cards, or PIN codes. Even when away from home, users can check the lock status via a dedicated app and remotely lock or unlock the door.
They also offer features such as granting temporary access to friends or family members, as well as recording logs of when the door was locked or unlocked and by whom. For example, even if a property does not have a parcel delivery box, residents can temporarily unlock the door remotely to receive packages during delivery.
Because they allow remote operation and lock status monitoring, smart locks enhance security. Models without traditional keyholes can also help prevent break-ins by eliminating the risk of lock picking.
Smart locks also offer advantages for property owners. They eliminate the need to hand over physical keys to tenants and reduce the burden of replacing keys at the time of move-in and move-out. During property viewings, there is no need to lend out physical keys, allowing for smoother and more efficient showings. Since locking and unlocking histories are recorded, security is strengthened, which can increase tenant satisfaction—especially among those who prioritize safety—and potentially contribute to longer tenancies and higher occupancy rates.
.png)
Key Considerations When Installing Smart Locks
When using a smartphone-based smart lock, unlocking is not possible if the smartphone battery runs out. Additionally, smart locks themselves are typically battery-powered, requiring periodic battery replacement—usually once every six months to a year. If the lock’s battery is depleted, it will not function.
There are various types of smart locks available. With retrofit models that do not cover the original keyhole, traditional physical keys can still be used. Since smart locks are installed on the interior side of the door, a physical key can be used from the outside if the smart lock’s battery runs out. For this reason, it is generally recommended to use smart locks in combination with physical keys to prepare for battery depletion or device malfunctions. However, doing so may reduce some of the unique advantages of smart locks.
In addition to the initial installation cost, smart locks also involve ongoing operational costs. In many cases, they are provided through subscription-based services with monthly fees rather than one-time purchases. Furthermore, certain door types may not be compatible with smart lock installation, so it is important to confirm compatibility in advance.
While smart locks enhance security and provide peace of mind for tenants, installing security cameras may be considered an even higher priority. Network cameras, which allow video monitoring via the internet, do not require a dedicated monitoring space within the property. Models that begin recording when motion is detected also make it easier to review footage efficiently.
Related Articles
