How to Reset Smart Devices Between Tenancies

What resetting smart devices between tenancies means

Resetting smart devices between tenancies refers to the process of removing previous tenant access, updating credentials, and preparing connected devices for a new occupant. This may involve deleting user accounts, changing access codes, revoking app permissions, and — in some cases — performing a full factory reset. This is a common source of confusion for landlords transitioning between tenancies.

Unlike traditional property features that require only physical handover, smart devices retain digital access rights that persist after tenants leave. Without deliberate action, previous tenants may retain the ability to unlock doors, view camera footage, or control heating remotely.

This is not a technical complication — it is a security and privacy requirement. Proper device reset is as essential as changing locks was in the pre-digital era.

When a full reset is required vs when access revocation is enough

Not every tenancy change requires a full factory reset of every device. The appropriate action depends on how accounts were managed during the tenancy.

Access revocation is usually sufficient when:

• You own the primary account for the device
• Tenants were added as guest or member users only
• You can verify all access codes and user permissions
• No personal data was stored by the tenant on the device

A full factory reset is recommended when:

• The tenant set up the device with their own account
• You are unsure who has access or what codes exist
• The device has stored personal data (such as video recordings)
• There were multiple users added during the tenancy and you cannot verify all were removed
• You have lost access to the account credentials

When in doubt, a full reset provides certainty. The cost is reconfiguration time — but the benefit is complete security assurance.

Reset procedures by device type

Different smart devices require different approaches. Here is general guidance for common device categories. Always consult the manufacturer's documentation for specific models.

Smart locks

Smart locks are the highest priority for tenant turnover because they control physical access to the property.

• Delete all tenant access codes — Use the app or physical keypad to remove every code the previous tenant used
• Remove shared users — Revoke any guest access that was granted through the app
• Check for temporary codes — Some locks create one-time or scheduled codes that should also be deleted
• Create new codes for the incoming tenant — Generate fresh codes rather than reusing old ones
• Verify physical key backup — Ensure you have a working physical key in case of electronic failure

Video doorbells and cameras

Video devices raise privacy concerns because they may contain recordings of the previous tenant.

• Revoke all shared access — Remove guest users from the account
• Review video history — Consider deleting old recordings before the new tenant moves in
• Disable notifications for previous users — Ensure old tenants no longer receive motion alerts
• Check subscription status — Confirm any paid features are still active and tied to your account

Smart thermostats

Thermostats are generally lower risk but still require attention.

• Remove home member access — Delete the previous tenant from the household
• Review schedules — Check if heating schedules need adjustment for the new tenant
• Confirm account ownership — Verify the device is still linked to your landlord account
• Test remote access — Confirm you can still control the device remotely if needed

Smart lighting and plugs

These are typically the lowest risk devices, but still deserve attention.

• Remove shared access — Delete any users who were added to control lighting
• Reset scenes and automations — Clear any custom routines the previous tenant created
• Verify physical controls work — Ensure lights can be operated manually if needed

Smart speakers and voice assistants

Voice assistants are often linked to personal accounts and should typically be factory reset.

• Factory reset the device — This removes all voice history and linked accounts
• Decide on ownership model — Consider whether you will link it to a property account or let the tenant set it up themselves
• Unlink from smart home ecosystem — If the speaker controlled other devices, remove those connections

Creating a device reset checklist for your property

Rather than trying to remember all steps at each tenancy change, create a documented checklist specific to your property. This ensures nothing is missed and makes the process efficient.

What to include in your checklist

• Device inventory — List every smart device in the property
• Account credentials — Record which email and password controls each device (stored securely)
• Reset steps per device — Document the specific steps needed for each device type
• New tenant setup steps — Instructions for adding the incoming tenant as a user
• Verification steps — How to confirm the old tenant no longer has access

This checklist becomes part of your property documentation and can be followed by anyone managing the turnover — whether that is you, a letting agent, or a property manager.

Common mistakes when resetting devices

Even landlords who understand the importance of device reset often make these errors.

Assuming the old tenant removed themselves

Never assume the previous tenant deleted their own access. They may have forgotten, been unaware, or simply not bothered. Always verify access status yourself.

Forgetting about temporary or guest codes

Tenants may have created temporary codes for cleaners, guests, or delivery drivers. These often persist after the tenancy ends and can be forgotten.

Resetting without documenting new credentials

If you perform a factory reset, make sure you immediately document the new account setup. Losing access to your own devices after reset defeats the purpose.

Not testing after reset

After making changes, test that the device works correctly. Verify you can control it, that the new tenant has access, and that the old tenant does not.

Summary

• Resetting smart devices between tenancies is a security requirement, not an optional task
• Access revocation is often sufficient if you own accounts; factory reset is needed when ownership is unclear
• Smart locks are highest priority, followed by video devices, then thermostats and other controls
• Create a documented checklist specific to your property to ensure consistency
• Always verify that old access has been removed and test that new access works correctly

Frequently asked questions