Is it ok to give a contractor my house keys?

Question

I've had two contractors work at my house. The first one was working on it a few days before I occupied it. He asked for my keys but I did not feel comfortable so I told him I will leave the house unlocked. I had to fire him because he was unprofessional and did a shoddy job.

I've hired a professional contractor who needs to work in the house today. His people were to be there this morning before I left for work so I can leave the doors open. Since they did not make it on time the contractor told me I could either hide the keys somewhere or have him pick them up at work. Again I got the same uncomfortable feeling and told him to call me when they get to the house and I will let them in.

Am I being irrational in withholding the keys to the contractors? How does it work when one have people working in their house? I know its different in apartments since the leasing office has the keys and lets themselves in. Should I give contractors my keys or open the house for them?

Answer 1

no you are being smart.

Answer 2

I think you've answered your own question.  Trust your instincts...you'll seldom be sorry you did.  If you do hand over your keys, be prepared to change the locks once the work is completed.  Of course, you should also take good inventory of what you have in the residence to make sure it's all there when you return. Also, make sure the "professional" you hired is insured and bonded, and I highly recommend you never pay a contractor any funds up front or you will certainly risk never seeing them again. There are professional contractors out there, but just as in any business, they are few and far between.

Answer 3

if they are liscensed insured and bonded there should be no problem short of that keep your keys!

Answer 4

The contractor shouldn't have the keys.  they can always go make copies and use them later/give them to their friends.

Do keep a door unlocked during the work hours.  Make sure your contractor is licensed/bonded.

Answer 5

You are right to be cautious in this day and age.

If it is possible for you to let them in, continue to do so.

Is your contractor licensed and bonded?  Is he using any subcontractors, and are they licensed and bonded?  Would he ALWAYS be the only one with your keys?

If it is not, consider providing them with keys, but have ALL locks rekeyed when construction is finished.