Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Maryland
Are there required min. lengths of deadbolt locks in apartment complexes.
My apartment was recently burglarized and the perpetrators were able to enter by means of prying open the deadbolt and keyed knob. The rental company has since offered to install a deadbolt with a 2"+ reach. The original deadbolt had only a 1" reach. Are there any codes that set a minimum length of deadbolt to be installed in rental units or is the deadbolt length solely up to the discretion of the rental company. I am trying to find out if the rental company assumes any liability because of the locks that were in place when the apartment was burglarized. Thanks!
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Are there required min. lengths of deadbolt locks in apartment complexes.
I am unaware of any "lock length" requirements, but you might check with the housing authority in your county. It's doubtful that the rental company can be held responsible for the burglary on this basis. However, you should check to see if they have insurance to cover the loss. Did you have insurance on your contents?--it's a good idea. If the burglars entered through an outer breach of security in the building, you may have some basis for asserting a claim against the landlord.
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