Can Landlords Change Locks Without Consent in Maryland?

Knowing your rights as a renter in Maryland is essential—especially if you're facing unexpected lock changes by your landlord. Maryland has clear laws designed to protect tenants from being locked out of their home without legal process or proper notice. This article explains what landlords can and cannot do when it comes to changing locks, which forms to use, and how Maryland's tenant protections work for you.

Are Landlords Legally Allowed to Change Locks Without Tenant Consent?

In Maryland, landlords are generally not permitted to change the locks or otherwise prevent you from accessing your rental home without following legal procedures. This action is known as a "self-help eviction," and it is prohibited under state law. Instead, landlords must file for eviction and obtain a court order through the appropriate legal process before changing locks or removing a tenant.

What the Law Says About Lock Changes

According to the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-216, a landlord who "takes possession or threatens to take possession of a dwelling unit from a tenant without the consent of the tenant and without the authority of a court order" is violating the law.¹

• Landlords cannot: Change your locks, remove your belongings, or bar your access unless a court has issued an eviction order.
• If your locks are changed illegally, you can file a complaint and may be eligible for damages or restoration of your possession.

Some exceptions may apply in emergency situations (such as fire or severe property damage), but these do not include eviction or non-payment of rent scenarios. Always check if your situation is covered under emergency provisions and contact the appropriate authorities if needed.

What To Do If Your Landlord Changes the Locks

If you find yourself locked out or unable to access your home in Maryland, take these practical steps:

• Document the situation: Take photos and notes about the changed locks or any blocked entries.
• Contact your landlord in writing to request immediate access to your property.
• File an official complaint if your landlord refuses to let you back in or if you feel unsafe.

Official Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes in Maryland

Maryland tenant-landlord disputes, including illegal lockouts, are generally handled by your local District Court. The Maryland District Court oversees residential eviction cases and related matters statewide.²

Key Official Forms for Maryland Renters

• Complaint for Wrongful Detainer (MDCC 107):
  Use this form if you have been locked out or kept from your rental without a court order. For example, if your landlord changed the locks without your consent, file this complaint at your local District Court for a judge to order your return. Download the Complaint for Wrongful Detainer (Form DC-CV-107).
• Petition for Restoration of Possession (Form DC-CV-116):
  If you have been unlawfully removed from your rental home, this form allows you to ask the court to restore your right to possession while your case is pending. Get the Petition for Restoration of Possession (Form DC-CV-116).
• Request for Civil Warrant of Restitution (Form DC-CV-081):
  If you win your wrongful detainer case, this form can be used to ask the court to order law enforcement to help you regain access. Access the Request for Civil Warrant of Restitution (Form DC-CV-081).

Each of these forms is available for free and should be submitted to the District Court in your county. Find your local Maryland District Court location to file documents in-person or get further guidance.

Summary of Maryland's Tenant Lockout Protections

To recap, landlords in Maryland are not allowed to change locks or keep you out of your home without a valid court order. State laws are clear: renters are protected against "self-help" evictions, so you cannot be forced out or locked out without due process.

Frequently Asked Questions: Maryland Lock Change Issues

1. Is it ever legal for my landlord to change the locks on my rental unit in Maryland?
   Only if the landlord has a valid court order for eviction can locks be legally changed. Without court approval, changing locks is not permitted except in some emergency circumstances.
2. What should I do first if I’m locked out by my landlord?
   Document the lockout, contact the landlord in writing, and consider filing a Complaint for Wrongful Detainer (Form DC-CV-107) at your local District Court for immediate help.
3. Can I get back into my home if my landlord changed the locks illegally?
   Yes, courts can order the landlord to give you access or restore your possession. File the relevant court forms and seek an expedited court hearing.
4. Are there damages if my landlord wrongly locks me out?
   Maryland law allows tenants to pursue damages in court if a landlord is found to have illegally locked out a renter, including possible reimbursement for losses or inconvenience.
5. Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Maryland?
   All tenant eviction and lockout disputes are generally filed with the Maryland District Court, which has jurisdiction over residential rental issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland District Court: Tenant-Landlord Information – Main court for eviction and lockout complaints.
• Maryland Attorney General: Consumer Protection Division Landlord-Tenant Guide – Practical renter advice and state legal resources.
• People’s Law Library of Maryland: Landlord-Tenant Law – Comprehensive step-by-step guides for renters and forms help.
• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renters – State housing programs and local support directory.

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1. See Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-216 (Lockouts and self-help evictions prohibited)
2. Maryland District Court: Tenant-Landlord Information

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