Can My Landlord Change The Locks?
If you’re renting a property in the UK, one question that might come up—especially during disputes or periods of uncertainty—is whether your landlord has the right to change the locks. It’s an issue that touches on both your legal rights and your sense of security, so it’s important to understand where the law stands and what your options are as a tenant. At London Locks, we regularly work with both tenants and landlords across Hackney and beyond. From emergency lock changes in Dalston to secure lock installations in Stoke Newington, we’ve seen first-hand how disputes over locks can escalate quickly when proper procedures aren’t followed. In this blog, we’ll break down the legalities, common scenarios, and practical guidance around landlords changing locks in the UK.
What Does the Law Say?
Under UK law, tenants have the legal right to “quiet enjoyment” of the property they’re renting. This means that once you’ve signed a tenancy agreement, the landlord cannot interfere with your use and enjoyment of the property without proper cause and notice. Crucially, this right is automatically implied in every tenancy—whether or not it’s written in your contract. Changing the locks without your permission and without following due process can constitute an illegal eviction. This is a serious offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. In England and Wales, if a landlord changes the locks without following the correct legal eviction process, they may be prosecuted and fined, or even face imprisonment in extreme cases. In short, unless the landlord has a court order and has gone through proper legal channels, they cannot legally change the locks to prevent you from accessing your home.
When Can a Landlord Change the Locks?
While there are strict rules in place, there are a few situations where a landlord may be legally allowed to change the locks—but only with the correct procedure in place. One example is after a lawful eviction. If a tenant has been through the eviction process and a court has granted a possession order, the landlord is permitted to take back control of the property. Once bailiffs have carried out the eviction, the landlord may then change the locks to secure the premises and prevent unauthorised re-entry. At that point, the tenant has no legal right to access the property. Another common situation is between tenancies. For example, if a tenant has moved out voluntarily and handed back the keys, the landlord may choose to change the locks for security purposes before a new tenant moves in. This is not only allowed but often recommended—especially in high-turnover rental areas like Hackney Central or Homerton, where landlords may have several properties in rotation. A landlord may also change the locks if a tenant has abandoned the property. However, this is a grey area, and caution is required. If a tenant has left without formally ending the tenancy, the landlord must still follow legal procedures to regain possession. Changing the locks under the assumption that the tenant won’t return could still be considered an unlawful eviction.
What If There’s a Dispute Between Tenants?
Things can get even more complex when multiple tenants are involved. In shared accommodation or houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), where several tenants may be on a joint tenancy, landlords must be especially careful about changing locks. If a dispute arises between tenants—say, one tenant moves out after a falling out—it is not the landlord’s role to intervene by changing the locks to exclude the former occupant unless the tenancy has formally ended. All tenants on a joint tenancy have equal rights to access the property. Excluding one without due process could again lead to legal consequences. Landlords can, however, facilitate lock changes if all current legal tenants agree and are present to approve the new keys. For instance, in a flatshare near London Fields where all flatmates mutually decide to change the locks for safety reasons, the landlord can assist in that process.
Can a Landlord Change the Locks Without Telling Me?
No—unless you have already legally surrendered the property or been evicted through a court order, a landlord cannot change the locks without informing you. Even in urgent circumstances, such as a break-in or major repair work, the landlord must give you reasonable notice before entering the property or taking any action that would affect your access. The standard notice period for entry is at least 24 hours, and it must be for a valid reason such as carrying out repairs, inspections, or safety checks. If the landlord fails to give notice and changes the locks without your knowledge, you could have grounds to take legal action. This kind of unauthorised entry or lock change is not only unlawful—it can also be deeply distressing. We’ve helped tenants in Hackney Wick and Clapton regain access to their properties after a lock was changed without consent. In these cases, the tenant may be entitled to claim damages and report the landlord to the local council.
What Should I Do If My Landlord Changes the Locks Illegally?
If you arrive home and discover the locks have been changed and you’ve been locked out without notice or a court order, the first step is to stay calm and gather evidence. Take photos, note the time and date, and try to contact the landlord to find out what’s happened. If they confirm they changed the locks, ask for their reason and whether they have a court order. Next, contact your local council’s housing department. Hackney Council, for example, has a private renting team that deals with illegal evictions and landlord harassment. You can also speak to a solicitor or local legal advice centre—many tenants in Hackney turn to organisations like Hackney Law Centre for support. If your landlord has acted illegally, you may be able to take them to court. The court can order the landlord to let you back into the property and may award compensation for any distress, inconvenience, or financial loss you’ve suffered. As locksmiths in Hackney, we cannot legally let tenants back into a property if there’s a dispute over access. In these situations, we always recommend resolving the matter through legal channels before proceeding.
Can I Change the Locks Myself?
Tenants often ask if they’re allowed to change the locks on their own, especially in situations where they feel unsafe or have concerns about other people having keys. This could be due to a former flatmate moving out or an ex-partner who hasn’t returned their keys. Technically, tenants can change the locks—but with caution. Most tenancy agreements include a clause requiring tenants to inform the landlord and provide a copy of any new keys. Failing to do so could put you in breach of your contract. However, if you’re in immediate danger or feel your safety is at risk, the priority is to protect yourself. In some cases, particularly in private tenancies around Shoreditch or Haggerston where landlords may not be local, tenants choose to change the locks and notify the landlord afterwards. It’s always best to document the reasons and communicate clearly. If there’s a valid safety concern, most landlords will understand. We often help tenants across Hackney install new locks discreetly and professionally—ensuring security while respecting the terms of the tenancy.
The Importance of Communication
Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, communication is key when it comes to managing locks and access. Many disputes can be avoided simply by having a clear conversation about responsibilities and expectations. Landlords should always include information about keys, lock changes, and property access in the tenancy agreement. Tenants should feel comfortable raising concerns and seeking permission where needed. It’s far better to have a conversation before changing a lock than to deal with legal consequences later. At London Locks, we often act as a neutral third party—working with both tenants and landlords to find a solution that keeps everyone secure and within the bounds of the law. Whether it’s installing a new lock in a Hackney flat or upgrading access for a commercial property on Mare Street, we prioritise clear communication and legal compliance.
Final Thoughts
So, can your landlord change the locks? In most cases, not without your consent or a court order. Tenants have strong legal protections in place, and landlords must follow proper procedures if they want to take back possession of a property or carry out significant security changes. If you’re unsure of your rights, always seek advice before taking action. Illegal lock changes are a serious matter, and understanding where you stand is the first step to protecting your home and peace of mind. Whether you’re renting a studio in Homerton or managing multiple lets across Hackney, the best approach is always one of transparency, legality, and mutual respect. And if you need help with a lock—emergency or planned—you can count on London Locks to be there with expert advice and professional service, day or night.