Before you start
- A door compatible with the lock you choose (measure your deadbolt and door thickness)
- Reliable Wi-Fi or a lock that supports offline codes near the door
- A backup entry method (lockbox or spare key) for emergencies
What you'll end up with
A working smart lock that issues a unique code for each guest and expires it after checkout, with a tested backup.
Steps
- 1
Choose the right lock
Confirm it fits your deadbolt and door thickness. If Wi-Fi at the door is weak, pick a lock that generates offline PIN codes. See the smart locks category.
- 2
Install and test manually
Fit the lock, then lock and unlock it by keypad and app several times. Check battery level and note the low-battery behavior.
- 3
Confirm connectivity
Verify the lock reports its status reliably. If it drops off Wi-Fi, move a mesh point closer or switch to an offline-code lock.
- 4
Create unique, expiring codes
Set each guest a distinct code that activates at check-in and deactivates at checkout. Never reuse one code for everyone — that's a security hole.
- 5
Integrate with your PMS (optional)
Many PMS and access platforms auto-generate and send codes per reservation, removing a manual step. Confirm the integration is officially supported.
- 6
Set up and document the backup
Keep a lockbox or spare key for battery/connectivity failures, and make sure you (or a local contact) can let a guest in if all else fails.
Always have a fallback
Batteries die and Wi-Fi drops. A locked-out guest at midnight is a guaranteed bad review. Test your backup entry method before relying on the lock.
Troubleshooting
The code won't work at check-in
Confirm the code's active window matches the reservation and the lock's clock is correct. Give the guest the backup method while you investigate.
The lock keeps going offline
Improve signal near the door or switch to a lock that supports offline codes so entry never depends on live connectivity.
Batteries drain fast
Use quality batteries, disable unnecessary auto-lock features, and set a low-battery alert so you replace them before they fail.
Put your check-in steps and door code one guest question away.
See the digital house manual