Can my landlord evict me for calling the police during a domestic violence incident?

No. Kentucky law prohibits landlords from evicting you because you are a victim or have sought help due to domestic violence.

What documentation do I need to end my lease early?

You need to provide your landlord with written notice plus a copy of your protection order, police report, or relevant court paperwork as evidence.

How can I get the locks changed in my apartment after domestic violence?

Submit a written request with supporting documentation to your landlord. They must change the locks or allow you to do so at your expense, without giving a key to the abuser.

Do I have to pay extra for breaking my lease early due to domestic violence?

No, if you follow the proper notification and documentation process, Kentucky law allows you to end your lease without penalty.

Where can I get more help or legal advice?

You can contact Kentucky Housing Corporation, local courts, or legal aid services for more support and information.

Kentucky Tenant Protections for Domestic Violence Survivors

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

Experiencing domestic violence can significantly impact a renter’s safety and sense of home. In Kentucky, special laws exist to protect tenants affected by domestic violence, giving you the right to break a lease early, request changing of locks, and safeguard your privacy. Understanding these rights helps tenants pursue safety options without fearing unfair landlord actions or losing housing.

Your Tenant Rights in Kentucky as a Domestic Violence Survivor

Kentucky law recognizes the special risks faced by domestic violence survivors and provides several legal rights to ensure safety and housing stability.

Right to End Lease Early: If you are a documented victim of domestic violence, you may terminate your lease without penalty under specific conditions.
Right to Request New Locks: Survivors may ask their landlord to change locks on their rental unit for extra safety.
Protection from Eviction Due to Abuse: Landlords cannot evict you solely because you are a victim of domestic violence.

These protections apply to covered rental housing in Kentucky. If you live in public or subsidized housing, additional federal protections may also apply.

Key Kentucky Laws Protecting Tenants

The primary state law supporting tenant protections around domestic violence is the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) where adopted, and state-specific provisions in KRS § 383.300–383.715.¹

Breaking a Lease Due to Domestic Violence

Kentucky allows a survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking to terminate a lease early, if proper documentation is provided. Here’s how this typically works:

Provide written notice to your landlord stating your intention to terminate the lease because of domestic violence.
Include proof, such as a protective order (EPO or DVO), police report, or court documentation.
Notice must usually be delivered at least 30 days before the termination date.

You cannot be charged for breaking the lease early in these circumstances if you follow the correct process.

Changing Locks for Tenant Safety

Kentucky law allows tenants who are victims of domestic violence to request that locks on their rental unit be changed. You can make this request in writing to your landlord. The landlord must change the locks at your expense, or allow you to do so, and cannot provide the new key to the abuser, even if they are a co-tenant.² For more detailed information, visit the official Kentucky Legislature info page on landlord-tenant lock provisions.

Required Documentation and Forms

Petition for Protective Order (EPO/DVO/IPO)
When to use: If you are seeking a legal order of protection from an abusive partner. This form is used to request a temporary or permanent protective order from a Kentucky court.
Example: If your protection order is granted, you can use certified copies as evidence to terminate your lease or request a lock change.
View Kentucky Protective Order Petition (Official PDF)
30-Day Written Notice of Lease Termination Due to Domestic Violence
When to use: Give this written notice to your landlord, explaining your intent to end your lease early under Kentucky law. Include your protection order or other official evidence.
See Sample 30-Day Notice Letter (Kentucky Housing Corporation)

If you feel unsafe or need immediate changes, document every interaction and deliver notices by certified mail, if possible.

Steps for Requesting Domestic Violence Protections

Here’s a quick overview on how Kentucky renters can use these legal protections:

Gather necessary documentation (protection order, police report, or court documents)
Write a notice to your landlord explaining the situation and your rights
Attach a copy of your order or report
State your specific request: lease termination with a 30-day date or request for lock change
Deliver the notice and document the delivery

You can find more information and downloadable forms on the Kentucky Housing Corporation's official Rental Rights page.

Tip: You never have to disclose detailed personal information about your situation beyond what the law requires. Privacy is also a right under Kentucky’s rental laws.

Official Tribunal Handling Tenant-Landlord Disputes

If disputes arise, tenants may seek help from their local Kentucky Family Court or District Court, depending on the case. Note that Kentucky does not have a specialized tenant tribunal statewide—cases are usually handled in civil court where URLTA applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord evict me for calling the police during a domestic violence incident?
No. Kentucky law prohibits landlords from evicting you because you are a victim or have sought help due to domestic violence.
What documentation do I need to end my lease early?
You need to provide your landlord with written notice plus a copy of your protection order, police report, or relevant court paperwork as evidence.
How can I get the locks changed in my apartment after domestic violence?
Submit a written request with supporting documentation to your landlord. They must change the locks or allow you to do so at your expense, without giving a key to the abuser.
Do I have to pay extra for breaking my lease early due to domestic violence?
No, if you follow the proper notification and documentation process, Kentucky law allows you to end your lease without penalty.
Where can I get more help or legal advice?
You can contact Kentucky Housing Corporation, local courts, or legal aid services for more support and information (see resources below).

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

Survivors of domestic violence in Kentucky can legally break their lease or request locks changed with proper notice.
Proof is required—such as a protection order or police report.
Your landlord cannot evict or penalize you for asserting these rights.

Always keep copies of documents, send notices in writing, and know you have the right to safety in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kentucky Housing Corporation – Rental Rights & Resources
Kentucky Family Court (handles protection orders and lease dispute filings)
Kentucky Court Forms (including protection orders)
Kentucky Legal Aid Network
LawHelp Kentucky – Tenant Safety & Violence Resources