ACCESS CONTROL

Temporary Smart-Lock Codes for Guests, Cleaners and Tradespeople

Temporary codes can be safer and easier to audit than sharing a household master code—provided every person gets a separate credential with a clear purpose and expiry.

Core rule: one person, one purpose, one code. Never give a visitor the household master credential.

Set access deliberately

Setting	Safer choice
Identity	A unique code for the individual or company, not a reused “guest” code
Time	A narrow date and time window, with automatic expiry where supported
Permissions	Door access only; do not grant account administration or camera access
Delivery	Send directly to the intended person, separate from alarm-disarming details
Review	Revoke after the visit and check for unexpected use

Before the visit

Confirm which door is needed and whether someone must supervise entry.
Test the code once without revealing another user’s credential.
Explain locking behaviour, permitted hours and what to do if access fails.
Prepare a controlled backup for a dead battery or service outage; do not place an obvious key safe next to the entrance.
Tell occupants when access is scheduled. Access logs do not replace clear consent and communication.

After the visit

Revoke

Delete or expire the code promptly. Do not merely rename it for the next visitor.

Review

Check access time and door status, but treat logs as security records rather than employee-surveillance tools.

Escalate

If the code was shared, used outside its window or retained by a former worker, remove it and review related alarm permissions.

Rental and shared-home caution

Landlords, hosts and householders must respect local tenancy, privacy and notice rules. A smart lock does not create a right to enter, and access records should be retained only for a defined security purpose.

Official reference: UK NCSC smart-device security guidance.

Last checked: 1 September 2026. Check applicable tenancy, employment and privacy requirements in your country.