California Tenant Rights: When You Can Change Locks

Every renter deserves a sense of security in their California home. You might wonder if—and when—tenants can legally change the locks on a rental property. State law balances your right to feel safe with your landlord's right to manage their property. Below you'll find everything you need to know about lock changes, safety protections, and the steps to take if you face an emergency or safety issue in California rental housing.

Understanding a Tenant’s Right to Change Locks in California

In most situations, California law does not specifically prohibit tenants from changing locks. However, there are important conditions and requirements under the California Civil Code Section 1941.1 and related tenancy legislation, as well as your lease agreement, that you must keep in mind.

General Rules for Changing Locks

• You generally cannot change the locks without your landlord's permission, unless there is a clear threat or significant safety risk.
• If you do change the locks, you must usually provide your landlord with a copy of the new key promptly.
• Check your rental or lease agreement for additional rules regarding locks or security changes.

For safety-related concerns—such as domestic violence protections—California law gives tenants additional rights and responsibilities, detailed below.

Emergency or Safety Situations

California prioritizes tenant safety. If you are a victim of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, or elder abuse, special legal protections allow you to change your locks in certain cases. Under California Civil Code Section 1941.5, these rules apply:

• If you provide written documentation (like a restraining order or police report) to your landlord, you may change the locks at your own expense.
• You must give your landlord a copy of the request and documentation.
• You are required to give your landlord a copy of the new key within 24 hours of changing the locks.
• The abuser (if also a tenant) may be lawfully excluded from access to the property under certain court orders.

Required Forms for Lock Changes After Domestic Violence or Abuse

• Tenant Change of Locks – Notice and Documentation (No standardized statewide form number; provide a written notice along with one of the following):
  • A copy of a valid restraining order, emergency protective order, or police report.
  • Example: If you have an emergency protective order after an incident, you may notify your landlord in writing, attach a copy of the order, and state your intent to install new locks.
  • Learn more on California Courts’ guide to Restraining Orders.

Good Practice: Communicate with Your Landlord

Even if you legally replace the locks, always keep written communication. Providing your landlord with a new key protects your rights and ensures you comply with state law and your lease.

What Landlords Can—and Can't—Do Regarding Locks

• Landlords cannot remove, alter, or add locks without notifying tenants, except in emergencies.
• If a landlord needs access for repairs or emergencies, they must give proper notice under California Civil Code Section 1954 (usually 24 hours in advance).

If your landlord changes the locks and locks you out without legal cause or due process, it's considered an illegal "self-help" eviction—strictly prohibited under California Civil Code Section 789.3.

Special Considerations: Security Devices and Reasonable Accommodations

• Tenants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations for security devices (such as different types of locks or door viewers). A written request should be submitted to your landlord.

Your local city or county may have additional rules regarding tenant protections and lock changes. Check with the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs or your local housing department if you live in a rent-controlled jurisdiction.

How to Request a Lock Change for Safety Reasons: Step-by-Step

If you need to change your locks due to a safety threat, follow these steps to stay within your rights:

• Document your safety concern (file a police report, get a restraining order, etc.).
• Write a letter to your landlord stating your request to change the locks and include supporting legal documents.
• Change the locks at your own expense if approved or if you have provided proper documentation for emergencies.
• Give your landlord a copy of the new key as required by law.

FAQs: Tenant Lock Change Rights in California

1. Can I change my apartment locks if I feel unsafe?
   In most cases, you need your landlord’s permission—unless facing an emergency, such as domestic violence or stalking and you provide proper documentation.
2. Do I have to give my landlord a new key if I change the locks?
   Yes, you must provide a new key within 24 hours, especially for emergency lock changes allowed by law.
3. Is my landlord allowed to change the locks without notice?
   No. Your landlord must provide legal notice and cannot lock you out without formal eviction proceedings.
4. What should I do if my landlord refuses to approve a lock change in a safety emergency?
   Document your request, provide legal documentation, and seek legal help or contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs for guidance.
5. Does my lease override state law on lock changes?
   No. State law protects your rights in emergencies or abuse cases, even if a lease sets stricter rules.

Key Takeaways on Changing Locks in California

• California tenants cannot generally change locks without landlord permission—but strong emergency protections exist for domestic violence and safety threats.
• Always provide your landlord a new key and keep all communications in writing.
• If you feel unsafe, state law supports your right to change locks promptly in certain emergencies.

This ensures you stay protected and within the law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• California Department of Consumer Affairs – Tenant Information
• California Department of Housing and Community Development
• California Courts Self-Help: Evictions & Lockouts
• Residential disputes and tenancy matters are handled by local Superior Courts. Find your local court at the California Courts: Find My Court page.
• Victims of violence can seek support from the California Office of Emergency Services Victim Programs.

---

1. California Civil Code Section 1941.1 – Tenant Habitability Requirements
2. California Civil Code Section 1941.5 – Locks, Domestic Violence Protections
3. California Civil Code Section 1954 – Landlord Right to Entry
4. California Civil Code Section 789.3 – Unauthorized Lockouts
5. California Courts – Restraining Orders

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations