answersLogoWhite

0

What can a landlord do if the tenant changes locks?

Updated: 8/21/2019
User Avatar

Wiki User

9y ago

Want this question answered?

Be notified when an answer is posted

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What can a landlord do if the tenant changes locks?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

In a commercial lease if the tenant changes locks does the tenant give a key to the landlord?

Yes. The building belongs to the landlord and needs the key in case of an emergency, or if a tenant abandons the property. Also, you should probably check with the landlord prior to changing locks. There might be a clause in the lease stating that only the landlord can change a lock, not the tenant.


What can you do when tenant changes locks on PA property?

If your landlord didn't follow the correct procedures for evicting a tenant and changes the locks, this is an illegal eviction. You can call the police and they will force your landlord to let you in. Hotels, motels, and other group homes and institutions are exempt from this rule.


Is it illegal to change the locks of a rental property without notifying the tenant?

I can only answer for Massachusetts, but I think you can. The landlord has a right of entry, but he should get the permission of tenant, and the tenant has a right to be there at the time. If the landlord needs to get in during an emergency, perhaps he should be calling the police.


Can a landlord in Ohio evict a commercial tenant by changing the locks?

In most states this is prohibited in a residential landlord/tenant rule.


Can a landlord change locks for abandonment even if the tenant hasn't moved out of rental?

No, a landlord cannot change the locks for abandonment if the tenant has not moved out of the rental property. Changing locks without proper legal process could be considered an illegal eviction and may expose the landlord to legal consequences.


Under what conditions can a landlord lock out a tenant?

Probably. A landlord has no right to enter without the tenant's permission, and being in the unit without the tenant present - even with the tenant's permission - is usually a bad idea. Therefore, if only the tenant has a key, the landlord is actually protecting himself from some liability. If the tenant changes the locks, he should save the original lockset, and put it back when he leaves.


Can landlord change locks on commercial building in Florida?

If the space is being leased and the tenant is current they really have no business doing so. They have the right to, but as long as they give the tenant a copy of the key they can do what they want. It is their property.


If you rent to own who replaces the hot water heater the tenant or landlord?

It's just my opinion, but until title changes hands, the tenant is still the tenant, and the landlord is responsible for replacing the water heater.


What is the meaning of tenancy reforms?

it means changes in the agreement between landlord and tenant


If you change your locks do you have to give duplicates of the new keys to your landlord?

AnswerYou should check your lease. In addition, generally a landlord has the right of access in an emergency. You need to check your local landlord/tenant laws.


Can a tenant change the locks without consent and without giving the landlord a key in tucson Arizona?

There's no law that prevents it. Some leases have a provision prohibiting changing the locks, but don't expect a judge to enforce it. The prudent landlord would not want a key, since he shouldn't be entering without the tenant's permission anyway, and, preferably, with the tenant there. If he doesn't have a key, the tenant cannot accuse him of unlawful entry. So, yes.


If your tenant is in default of the lease does the landlord have to right to change the locks?

Matters such a locks are usually covered in a written lease. If it's not covered or if there is no written lease you probably can. BUT, you must give the landlord a key. The landlord has the right to enter in an emergency and upon reasonable notice to the tenant to inspect the premises. Keep in mind that landlord / tenant relationships without a written lease are generally governed by state law, so the conclusion may differ from state to state. When I was a landlord, there was an option to change the keys for a tenant. I had it done at my cost and held a key. Most locksmiths will not change the keys if you do not own the home. In many commercial leases the tenant is EXPECTED to change the locks and the landlord may not want to even have a key. For example, when renting a self-storage unit, the tenant would typically add his or her own lock to the unit. Upon default or emergency, the landlord would simply break the lock to gain entry, then put on a new lock.