Can my landlord change the locks to evict me in Arkansas?

No, landlords must follow the formal eviction process and cannot change the locks or remove you without a court order.

What should I do if I’m locked out but it’s my fault?

Immediately contact your landlord or property manager, and check if your lease addresses lockouts or fees. You may need to call a locksmith.

Can the police help me if my landlord locks me out?

Yes, local police can help you document the situation and may assist if the lockout is illegal. Bring your lease and identification.

What official form do I use to report an illegal lockout?

File a Civil Complaint Form at your local District Court. Forms and instructions are available on the Arkansas Judiciary website.

Where do I find Arkansas’s rental lockout laws?

Read the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 for all legal rules about lockouts and evictions.

Locked Out in Arkansas? Your Rights and Next Steps

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Arkansas published June 21, 2025

If you’ve found yourself locked out of your rental home or apartment in Arkansas—whether it’s due to a lost key, broken lock, or a dispute with your landlord—it can be a stressful and confusing situation. Understanding Arkansas renters’ rights can help you resolve a lockout quickly and legally, while protecting your home and security.

Understanding Legal and Illegal Lockouts in Arkansas

In Arkansas, a landlord cannot lock you out of your rental unit without going through the required legal process for eviction. A “lockout” occurs when a landlord changes the locks, removes doors, or otherwise prevents you from accessing your home without a court order.

Landlords must use the formal eviction process before removing you from the property.
It is illegal for a landlord to:

Change the locks without a court order
Shut off essential utilities (such as water, heat, or electricity) to force you to leave
Remove windows, doors, personal belongings, or otherwise interfere with your access without proper procedure

Arkansas does not require landlords to provide keys to renters who are locked out by accident, but most landlords will help if requested.

Key law: The Arkansas Code Annotated § 18-17-701 (Residential Landlord-Tenant Act) sets out eviction and entry procedures¹.

If You’re Locked Out: What To Do

Accidental Lockout (Lost Keys, Broken Lock)

Contact your landlord or property manager immediately. Politely request help to regain entry.
If it’s after hours, check your lease for emergency contact numbers—you may be responsible for locksmith costs if it’s not the landlord’s fault.
If you are locked out due to an emergency (like fire or safety issues), call local authorities for assistance.

Lockout Caused by Landlord (Without Court Order)

Document the situation: Take pictures, note dates/times, and record communications with your landlord.
Remind your landlord (in writing) that “self-help” lockouts are illegal under Arkansas’s landlord-tenant laws.
If you are unable to resolve the problem, consider filing a complaint or taking legal action. See the steps below on how to do this.

If you feel threatened or unsafe during a lockout, or if essential utilities have been shut off, contact local law enforcement or a legal aid service for support.

How to File a Complaint for an Illegal Lockout

Arkansas does not have a dedicated state residential tenancy board, but issues are handled by your local District Court. Here’s how to take action:

Document everything: Save texts, emails, or written notes, along with photos of any notices or tampered locks.
Contact local law enforcement: If you’re illegally locked out, the police may help you regain access or document the incident.
File in District Court: If discussions with your landlord fail, file a civil complaint for unlawful eviction at your county's District Court.

Relevant Official Forms

Arkansas District Court Civil Complaint Form
Use this form if you want to file a claim against your landlord for an unlawful lockout or wrongful eviction.
- When it’s used: For example, if your landlord changes the locks without a court order and refuses to let you in, you can submit this form at your local District Court.
- You can access sample forms and instructions through your county’s District Court website or view a sample civil complaint form here.
If utility shutoff is involved, include copies of your lease and recent utility bills with your court complaint.

For forms and local court locations, visit the Arkansas Judiciary official website.

Arkansas’s Official Tribunal and Legislation

The main body handling landlord-tenant disputes is your local District Court.
Legal rules are set by the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007.

Your local court can explain next steps, such as mediation or a hearing schedule. If successful, the judge can order your landlord to restore access to your home, plus possible damages.

FAQ: Arkansas Lockout Laws for Renters

Can my landlord change the locks to evict me in Arkansas?
No, a landlord must get a court order before removing you or changing your locks. Evicting renters without legal process—known as a "self-help" eviction—is not allowed.
What should I do if I’m locked out but it’s my fault?
Contact your landlord or property manager as soon as possible. Check if your lease mentions procedures or fees for lockouts. You might need to call a locksmith at your own expense outside regular office hours.
Can the police help me if my landlord locks me out?
Yes, local police can help document the incident and may assist if your rights are violated. Always provide evidence, such as your rental agreement and identification.
What forms do I use to make a legal complaint about a lockout?
File a Civil Complaint Form at your local District Court. Forms and locations are on the Arkansas Judiciary website.
Where do I find official landlord-tenant laws for Arkansas?
See the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act for a full list of rules and procedures.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters Facing a Lockout

Your landlord cannot legally lock you out or evict you without a court order.
Document communications and take prompt action through your local District Court if you’re locked out illegally.
If you’re locked out due to your own error, reach out to your landlord or property manager for help.

Quick action and documentation are essential to protect your rights and ensure a safe, legal resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Arkansas Judiciary – Find your District Court
Legal Aid of Arkansas – Free or low-cost legal assistance
Arkansas Renters Handbook – Practical information on tenant rights and responsibilities
Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 – Full legislation text
Contact your county's District Court directly for filing instructions and forms