Can Landlords Change Locks Without Consent in New Hampshire?

As a renter in New Hampshire, understanding your rights around security and entry is essential. Many tenants worry about what might happen if a landlord changes locks without permission. This article explains your rights, the law, and what steps you can take if you face a lockout.

Understanding New Hampshire Law on Lock Changes

New Hampshire has clear tenant protections regarding lockouts. Under state law, a landlord cannot change the locks or otherwise prevent a tenant from accessing their rental unit without following proper legal procedures.

• Landlords must use the judicial eviction process if they want a tenant to move out.
• Locking out a tenant without a court order is illegal and considered a "self-help eviction."
• New Hampshire's protections apply regardless of what your rental agreement says.

For more information, see the official New Hampshire Eviction Law (RSA 540).

When Can Landlords Change Locks?

There are only a few limited scenarios where a landlord may change locks:

• After a court-approved eviction: Once the landlord has obtained a court order and the sheriff has formally removed the tenant, locks may be changed.
• By mutual agreement: If both you and your landlord agree, the locks can be changed, but the landlord must provide you with keys to any new locks.
• In emergencies or repairs: If the locks are changed for safety or repair reasons, the landlord must provide keys without delay.

If your landlord changes the locks without following the legal eviction process, this is unlawful—and you may have the right to sue for actual damages or regain access.

Your Rights If You’re Locked Out

New Hampshire’s laws are designed to protect renters from being unfairly locked out of their homes. If you find yourself locked out after a lock change:

• Contact your landlord and ask for immediate access.
• If denied, you have the right to file a petition with the court to regain entry.
• Your landlord may be required to compensate you for losses due to an illegal lockout.

Which Form Do I Use If I’m Locked Out?

• Tenant’s Petition for Relief from Illegal Eviction (NH District Division Form Landlord & Tenant 1): Use this form to ask the court for an order letting you back into your rental. File as soon as possible after the lockout.

Example: If you come home and your key no longer works, and your landlord won’t respond or let you in, you can download, fill out, and bring the NH Tenant’s Petition for Relief from Illegal Eviction form (L&T 1) to your local district court.

The Official Body for Tenant-Landlord Disputes

All residential landlord-tenant matters in New Hampshire, including lockout disputes, are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court District Division, Landlord & Tenant Section.

Legal Citations: New Hampshire Tenancy Law

• New Hampshire RSA 540: Eviction of Tenants
• RSA 540-A: Prohibited Practices (Tenant Protections)

RSA 540-A:3 specifically prohibits landlords from willfully depriving a tenant of access to the rented premises except by proper judicial process.¹

What To Do If a Landlord Changes Locks Without Consent

If you’re locked out, New Hampshire law gives you concrete steps to protect your rights:

• Try to resolve the issue by speaking directly to your landlord.
• Document everything: take photos, save messages, and make notes about what happened.
• File a Tenant’s Petition for Relief from Illegal Eviction with the local court if your landlord refuses access.
• The court can order your landlord to allow you back in and may award damages if the lockout was unlawful.

FAQ: New Hampshire Lock Change Rights for Renters

1. Can my landlord legally change my locks without telling me?
   No. In New Hampshire, landlords cannot change locks without your consent or a court order.
2. What should I do if I find myself locked out by my landlord?
   Document the situation, contact your landlord, and if necessary, file the proper court petition for immediate relief.
3. Are there any situations where a landlord can legally change locks?
   Yes—after court-ordered eviction, with your agreement, or for emergency repairs (with a new key supplied right away).
4. What court handles illegal lockouts in New Hampshire?
   The New Hampshire Circuit Court District Division, Landlord & Tenant Section manages such disputes.
5. What form do I use if I'm locked out illegally?
   File the Tenant’s Petition for Relief from Illegal Eviction (L&T 1) at your local District Court.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in New Hampshire cannot change locks without a court order or your agreement.
• If you are locked out, use official court forms to assert your rights immediately.
• The court can order your access restored and may penalize unlawful landlord actions.

Always keep records, seek legal advice if needed, and act promptly if you face a lockout situation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NH Circuit Court, District Division, Landlord & Tenant Section – File forms and address disputes
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Free and low-cost legal assistance for renters
• NH Attorney General Tenancy Issues – Consumer protection overview
• NH RSA 540-A: Prohibited Practices – Full legislative text

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1. RSA 540-A:3 – See the legislation here: RSA 540-A:3 Prohibited Acts
2. L&T Form 1 – Tenant’s Petition for Relief from Illegal Eviction
3. NH Circuit Court, Landlord & Tenant Section

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