Smart Locks for Deadlatch and Apartment Units

So, 2 questions in one really. Apparently, for unit apartments, we cannot install deadbolts and must install deadlatches as per fire safety requirements. The difference, for those unaware, is deadlatches is exactly like a deadbolt except the interior it has a knob around the typically round ring where the key goes in. This allows locking/unlocking from inside without a key - the idea is during a fire you can escape without looking around for a key.

Now, the question is can smart locks like August smart lock or the Kevo Kwikset fit deadlatches? All the materials I've seen online seem to only show and describe it fitting over deadbolts.

Also, if it does, anyone knows if it is against apartment unit fire safety regulations - or any owner of August/Kwikset can comment if they have manual unlock?

Comments

  • https://www.bunnings.com.au/lockwood-001touch-keyless-digita…

    dont know if they are using the term correctly.

    • Thanks, but these are pretty old tech… looking for smart locks that pairs with my phone like the August and Kevo locks, ideally ones that leaves my existing deadlatch in place so other family members can continue to use their keys. I'll pass on the poking numbers and carrying extra cards.

  • Not sure if it will be helpful but, we have a Samsung smart lock. Took the place of the dead bolt and has a button to open from the inside. Plus rfid tags plus pin on the outside. No help with phone connectivity though.

  • August can, but it depends on the lock.

    It fitted in one of our apartments but not the other.

    Just take the turn knob off and see if it is compatible using pictures from their website. Essentially all of the add on smart locks need the same base lock to work with.

    • Thanks! I will try that. Does the August handle manual turning? I'm assuming yes given it seems to retain the external key lock for manual usage…

  • digging up a old post but the samsung has some sort of heat sensor and will open if heat reaches XXX degrees.

    Also if its your place do as u want or add a 2nd lock.

  • Hi, sorry I know this is an old thread, but I'm curious whether OP found a solution?

    I'm in a slightly similar situation, and would like to see if a smart lock is available that is compatible with a deadlatch.

    Was looking at the Kwikset Kevo, but it's a deadbolt. My wife (being very impatient) wants to have a deadlatch, so that when leaving the house, she can simply close the door and walk away, without having to add another step by locking a deadbolt.

    • +1

      https://2ecffd01e1ab3e9383f0-07db7b9624bbdf022e3b5395236d5cf…

      “Locking Mode (Auto/Manual) : You can enable or disable the function for locking the door automatically when it is closed. The factory default is ‘Auto mode’.
      - Auto: The door is locked automatically 2 seconds after it is closed. However, it does not function if the magnet is not used or the batteries are completely discharged.
      - Manual: When the door does not lock automatically when it is closed, touch the [Touchscreen] or the [OPEN/CLOSE] button on the Interior Unit will lock the door.”

      Not sure if this is what you are talking about but some locks have an automatic locking sensor done with magnets.

      • Thanks for that… that's helpful.

        Having looked at the August smart lock - it looks like it also has a similar auto locking function as the Samsung.

        I'm still keen to see if anyone has experience with a deadlatch.

        • Hi did you find something? Same issue here..

  • Did you end up finding anything good for this?

  • Not sure if this is useful to anyone but I recently purchased a Unit in Qld, installed a kevo gen2 deadbolt and have now been told by fire inspection that it's not compliant. Specifically the kevo is a deadbolt and for it to pass code it needs to be a dead latch

    So I'm now on the hunt for a Bluetooth/prox smart deadlatch if anyone knows of a decent product that meets code.

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