Home locks
A working house key does not automatically disarm the alarm
Explain the normal authorized entry and departure routine using the alarm provider’s instructions, including who to contact for a problem. Door hardware access and alarm permission are separate. Do not assume a working key disarms the alarm. Give only the credentials appropriate for the arrangement, and review both systems when the house-sitting period ends.
Plan two systems together without confusing them
Door hardware controls physical entry, while an alarm system has its own authorized operation. A house sitter may need instructions for both. Do not assume that using a legitimate key automatically handles the alarm or that a door code and alarm credential are interchangeable. Review the actual installed systems and their official instructions before the sitter's first unattended arrival.
Explain the normal arrival sequence
Give the sitter the relevant provider-supported routine for entering and handling the alarm, including an appropriate contact if something goes wrong. Keep the instructions specific to the authorized visit and avoid sharing broader administrative credentials unnecessarily. A walkthrough can reveal misunderstandings that a short text message misses, such as which entrance is intended or which system produces a particular signal.
Make departure equally clear
The sitter needs to know the ordinary sequence for leaving the property in its intended state. That can involve separate actions for the door and alarm depending on the systems. Do not write a generic sequence borrowed from another household. Use the actual provider instructions and confirm the sitter understands the relevant confirmation behavior, rather than assuming a closed door proves every system is set as intended.
Keep troubleshooting responsibilities distinct
If a lock binds or a key fails, that is a hardware access problem requiring its own assessment. If the alarm reports an error, use the alarm provider's supported guidance and contact route. A locksmith appointment should not be assumed to include alarm configuration unless that service is explicitly supported and agreed. Clear boundaries help the sitter seek the right help without attempting unrelated resets.
Review both permissions after the stay
When the arrangement ends, address the door credential and any alarm permission separately through the appropriate processes. Record confirmed changes without retaining unnecessary secrets in shared travel notes. Schlage's product support can help identify instructions for its door hardware, while alarm guidance belongs with the actual alarm provider. A complete house-sitting access plan covers arrival, departure, problems and the intended end of permission across both systems.
Before you call
- Use the actual lock and alarm instructions for arrival and departure.
- Provide a clear contact route for each system.
- Review door and alarm permissions separately when the stay ends.
Follow-up questions
Does opening a door with an authorized key prove the alarm accepts that entry?
No. Follow the actual alarm system's authorized procedure. Physical key access and alarm permission are separate unless the installed system explicitly provides a documented integration.
Should a locksmith visit be expected to configure an unrelated alarm?
Only if that work is actually supported and included in the agreed service. Confirm responsibilities rather than assuming every access-related system is part of one appointment.
Official reference
Schlage: product support and FAQs ↗
Official product support. Identify your exact hardware before following installation or troubleshooting instructions.
Published by AID Locksmith, owned by Allan, serving Greater Sacramento. General service checklists are editorial guidance; product instructions apply to the named model.