Can my landlord change my locks without a court order?

No. In Kentucky, your landlord cannot change your locks or lock you out without a court order. This is considered an illegal self-help eviction.

Is a landlord allowed to shut off utilities to force me out?

No. It is illegal for a landlord to interrupt or disconnect essential utilities to make you leave the rental unit.

What should I do if my landlord tries a self-help eviction?

Contact the police immediately, document what is happening, and reach out to legal aid or your local District Court to report the incident.

Does my landlord have to give me written notice before filing for eviction?

Yes. Kentucky law requires landlords to give written notice before filing for an eviction in court, such as a 7-Day or 14-Day Notice, depending on the reason.

What court handles eviction cases in Kentucky?

All residential eviction cases go through your local District Court. The process is governed by Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383.

Illegal Self-Help Evictions in Kentucky: What Renters Need to Know

Evictions & Lease Violations Kentucky published: June 21, 2025

If you’re renting in Kentucky and worried about eviction, it’s crucial to understand your rights around “self-help” evictions. Self-help eviction is when a landlord tries to force you out of your rental home without going through the court process. In Kentucky, self-help eviction is illegal. This article will explain what self-help eviction means, what landlords are not allowed to do, and what steps you can take if it happens to you.

What Is Self-Help Eviction?

Self-help eviction is when a landlord attempts to remove a tenant from a property without a court order. This may include actions like changing locks, shutting off utilities, or physically removing a renter’s belongings. In Kentucky, only a court order allows physical removal of a tenant. This protection is laid out in Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383 – Landlord and Tenant.^[1]

Examples of Illegal Self-Help Eviction

Locking you out of your home without a court order
Removing doors or windows to force you to leave
Shutting off water, electricity, or heat to make your home unlivable
Taking your personal property out of the rental unit without a judge's permission

Even if you’re behind on rent or the landlord has given notice, they cannot bypass the formal eviction process.

The Legal Eviction Process in Kentucky

Kentucky law requires landlords to go through specific court procedures to evict a tenant. Here are the basic steps:

The landlord must give you proper written notice to end the tenancy. Usually, this is a 7-Day Notice for nonpayment of rent or a 14-Day Notice to Cure or Vacate for certain lease violations.
If you do not move out or fix the violation after receiving written notice, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit, called a "Forcible Detainer Action," in district court.
The court schedules a hearing. Only a judge can order an eviction, and the sheriff can enforce it after the court issues a Warrant of Possession.

Official Forms You May Encounter

Forcible Detainer Complaint (AOC-216.1)
Official form link
Used by landlords to begin the court eviction process. If you receive this, it means your landlord has started formal legal proceedings. Be sure to attend the court hearing and consider getting legal advice.
Notice to Vacate/Notice to Remedy
Not an official statewide form, but Kentucky law requires landlords to give proper written notice before filing an eviction. You should receive this notice first. Keep a copy for your records. Contact your local court clerk if you have questions about what counts as valid notice in your county.
Warrant of Possession (AOC-216.3)
Official form link
This is issued after the court rules in favor of the landlord. Only the sheriff can carry out the actual removal using this official document.

Your Rights as a Renter in Kentucky

You have the right to stay in your rental unit until a court order requires you to move. Landlords who attempt self-help eviction are breaking the law. If this happens:

Do not physically resist, but document everything with photos, videos, and notes
Call local law enforcement if you are illegally locked out or utilities are shut off
File a complaint with your local district court or contact legal aid for assistance

Key advice: Never ignore legal paperwork or court dates. A judge is the only person who can legally force you to move—never your landlord alone.

Where Are Eviction Cases Handled?

In Kentucky, all eviction cases are handled by your local District Court. The District Court also oversees official forms related to evictions and tenancy disputes.

What to Do If You’re Facing Illegal Self-Help Eviction

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

Contact local law enforcement to report illegal lockouts or utility shutoffs.
Gather evidence (pictures, texts, witnesses).
Contact the Kentucky Legal Aid office for free legal help.
Request a hearing in District Court to restore your access or seek damages.

Knowing your rights can help you remain safely in your home and ensure the eviction process is followed correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Self-Help Eviction in Kentucky

Can my landlord change my locks without a court order?
No. In Kentucky, your landlord cannot change your locks or lock you out without a court order. This is considered an illegal self-help eviction.
Is a landlord allowed to shut off utilities to force me out?
No. It is illegal for a landlord to interrupt or disconnect essential utilities to make you leave the rental unit.
What should I do if my landlord tries a self-help eviction?
Contact the police immediately, document what is happening, and reach out to legal aid or your local District Court to report the incident.
Does my landlord have to give me written notice before filing for eviction?
Yes. Kentucky law requires landlords to give written notice before filing for an eviction in court, such as a 7-Day or 14-Day Notice, depending on the reason.
What court handles eviction cases in Kentucky?
All residential eviction cases go through your local District Court. The process is governed by Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

Landlords cannot use self-help methods like lockouts, utility shutoffs, or removing belongings to evict tenants.
Every eviction must follow the legal court process through your local District Court.
Contact law enforcement and legal aid if you experience an illegal self-help eviction.

Kentucky renters should remember to keep records, attend court hearings, and know that the law protects them from unauthorized evictions.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kentucky District Court: Find your local court to report illegal evictions or attend hearings.
Kentucky Legal Aid: Free legal help for renters facing eviction or harassment.
Kentucky Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383): Read the full text of the state law protecting renters.
Kentucky Court Clerks Directory: Find your local court clerk’s contact details and get official forms or advice on court procedures.