Can my landlord change my locks without a court order in DC?

No. Changing your locks without a court order and U.S. Marshal present is illegal in DC, regardless of the circumstances.

What should I do if I’m locked out illegally?

Contact the Metropolitan Police Department, gather evidence, and file an Emergency Motion for Restoration of Possession with the Superior Court.

Where do I report an illegal eviction in Washington, DC?

Report immediately to the Office of the Tenant Advocate and seek restoration through the court.

Does my landlord need a reason to evict me in DC?

Yes. DC law requires 'just cause' for eviction, such as non-payment of rent or lease violations. The cause must be stated in the court filing.

Can I get back into my home if my landlord locks me out?

Yes. The court can order immediate restoration of possession if you file the correct motion and prove the lockout was illegal.

How to Fight an Illegal Eviction in DC: Renter Guide

Evictions & Lease Violations District of Columbia published: June 21, 2025

If you’re a renter in the District of Columbia worried about eviction, know that you have strong protections under DC law. Illegal evictions, sometimes called “self-help evictions,” happen when landlords try to force tenants out without following the legal court process. This guide explains what counts as an illegal eviction in DC, your rights, and the exact steps you can take if your landlord tries to evict you without a court order.

Understanding Illegal Evictions in DC

In Washington, DC, it is unlawful for a landlord to evict a tenant without a court order issued by the District of Columbia Superior Court. This means a landlord cannot:

Change your locks
Remove your belongings
Shut off your utilities
Physically or verbally force you out

Any of these actions are considered illegal, no matter what reason the landlord gives, unless they have completed the court eviction process and a U.S. Marshals Service officer carries out the eviction.

Your Legal Protections as a Renter

Washington DC provides some of the strongest renter protections in the country. According to the Rental Housing Act of 1985, all evictions must be ordered by the court and executed by the U.S. Marshals Service.^[1]

Landlords cannot use force or threats to remove you.
They cannot engage in harassment or cut off essential services.
They must serve you with an official eviction notice and go through the Superior Court.

If any of these rights are violated, you can take immediate steps to protect your home.

What to Do If You’re Facing an Illegal Eviction

If your landlord tries to evict you without a court order, here are practical steps you can take:

Contact the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD): If your landlord attempts a lockout or threatens you, call MPD immediately (non-emergency: 311).
Document everything: Take photos, keep emails or texts, and record dates and times of any incidents.
Stay in your home: Unless a U.S. Marshal, accompanied by a court-ordered eviction, shows up, you have the right to remain in your residence.
File a complaint: You can report an illegal eviction or landlord harassment to the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA). Use the complaint process detailed below.
Apply to the court for emergency relief: If you’ve been locked out, you may file for an Emergency Motion for Restoration of Possession with the Landlord and Tenant Branch of DC Superior Court.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

Emergency Motion for Restoration of Possession (Form LT-28):
Use this if your landlord has locked you out illegally. File with the DC Superior Court to request immediate re-entry to your rental unit.
Download Form LT-28 from DC Courts
OTA Tenant Complaint Form:
Use this to report illegal eviction, harassment, or illegal utility shutoff to the Office of the Tenant Advocate. Submitting this form starts an official investigation and opens advocacy services for you.
Access the OTA Complaint Form and Instructions

Tenants in DC cannot be legally evicted without a written court order and a U.S. Marshal present. If you’re locked out, help is available.

DC’s Official Housing Tribunal

The official body handling rental disputes, including evictions, is the Landlord and Tenant Branch of the DC Superior Court. This Court oversees all eviction cases in DC and ensures landlords comply with the Rental Housing Act of 1985.

Step-by-Step: How to Respond to an Illegal Eviction

Gather all evidence: photos, communications, witnesses.
Call MPD if an illegal lockout or threat occurs.
Complete the OTA Tenant Complaint Form and submit it online or in person.
If you have been locked out, fill out Form LT-28 and file it with the DC Superior Court (Landlord and Tenant Branch).
Keep a copy of everything you submit, and track all communications.

Taking these structured steps quickly can help restore your housing or stop an illegal eviction before it proceeds. Always respond in writing and keep organized records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord change my locks without a court order in DC?
No. Changing your locks without a court order and U.S. Marshal present is illegal in DC, regardless of the circumstances.
What should I do if I’m locked out illegally?
Contact the Metropolitan Police Department, gather evidence, and file an Emergency Motion for Restoration of Possession with the Superior Court.
Where do I report an illegal eviction in Washington, DC?
Report immediately to the Office of the Tenant Advocate and seek restoration through the court.
Does my landlord need a reason to evict me in DC?
Yes. DC law requires "just cause" for eviction, such as non-payment of rent or lease violations. The cause must be stated in the court filing.
Can I get back into my home if my landlord locks me out?
Yes. The court can order immediate restoration of possession if you file the correct motion and prove the lockout was illegal.

Key Takeaways

Landlords in DC must use the court system to evict you — self-help evictions are illegal.
If you’re locked out or harassed, act quickly by contacting police, documenting everything, and filing the appropriate forms with OTA and the court.
Use official resources and forms to protect your rights and restore your housing as soon as possible.

Staying informed and responding promptly are the best ways to stop an illegal eviction before it disrupts your life.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA): Free legal help, complaint forms, and renter workshops. Call OTA at (202) 719-6560.
DC Superior Court – Landlord and Tenant Branch: For forms and services related to eviction and housing disputes.
Rental Housing Act of 1985 (Official Legislation)
DC Office of the Attorney General – Tenant Rights Page: Information about tenant protections and complaint procedures.
In an emergency or for lockouts: Call MPD (non-emergency: 311 | emergency: 911)