Can New Jersey Landlords Change Locks Without Consent?

If you are renting a home or apartment in New Jersey and discover your landlord has changed your locks, it can be intimidating and confusing. Knowing your renter rights under state law is crucial for understanding when, if ever, a landlord can legally change your locks without your consent. This guide explains your protections under New Jersey law, what to do if you are locked out, and official resources you can use.

When Can a Landlord Change the Locks in New Jersey?

Under New Jersey law, landlords are not allowed to change the locks or otherwise prevent you from accessing your rental unit without following the required legal process. Lockouts are strictly regulated to protect tenant rights, except in rare emergency situations or with a court order.

Self-Help Eviction Is Prohibited

• "Self-help eviction," including lockouts, is illegal in New Jersey. Landlords must go through formal eviction proceedings and cannot take matters into their own hands. New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) §§ 2A:18-61.1 et seq. sets out the required eviction process.^[1]
• A landlord cannot change locks or remove doors to try to force a renter out, even if you are behind on rent. Only a court officer may remove a tenant after a successful eviction case.

When Is Changing Locks Allowed?

• The only time a landlord can legally change your locks without your consent is after a valid court eviction process, when a court officer executes a "warrant of removal."
• If there is a threat of violence or if you request a lock change for safety reasons (for example: domestic violence situations), the landlord may be required to cooperate with you under New Jersey’s rent control and housing codes, but cannot do so arbitrarily.

What to Do If You’re Locked Out by a Landlord

If your landlord has changed the locks without a court order or your consent, you have rights and can take immediate steps to protect yourself:

• Contact local law enforcement: Summon police to your rental. Explain you are a legal tenant and have been locked out. Police in New Jersey are authorized to intervene in illegal lockouts.
• Document everything: Take photographs, record dates and times, and keep copies of your lease and communication with your landlord.
• Apply for emergency relief: You may file for an emergency hearing at your county’s Landlord/Tenant Section of the Superior Court. If granted, the court can order your landlord to let you back in and may impose penalties for illegal lockouts.
• Seek damages: The court may order your landlord to pay for damages or losses caused by an unlawful lockout.

Key Forms and Where to Find Them

• Verified Complaint - Landlord/Tenant (Form CN11255): Use this form to file a case in the Landlord/Tenant section, such as for "illegal lockout."
  Official NJ Courts Form CN11255
  Example: If you are locked out without a court order, complete and file this form at your county courthouse to request an emergency hearing for re-entry.
• Emergent Application in Landlord/Tenant (Order to Show Cause) - CN11253: This form is for urgent requests, such as immediate restoration of access to your home.
  Official NJ Courts Form CN11253
  Example: For an immediate hearing or relief if you’re locked out, use this form along with your complaint.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Complaints?

In New Jersey, Landlord/Tenant Court (part of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division, Special Civil Part) handles residential tenancy disputes, including lockouts and evictions. Visit the NJ Courts official site for details on processes and filings.

Legislation Protecting New Jersey Renters

• New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) §§ 2A:18-61.1 et seq. — Covers eviction protections and procedures.
• New Jersey Hotel and Multiple Dwelling Law — Addresses safety and habitability requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord legally change my locks for nonpayment of rent?
   No. Your landlord must obtain an eviction order from a court before changing the locks, even if you are behind on rent.
2. What should I do if I return home and find a new lock on my apartment?
   Call your local police department to report an illegal lockout, document the situation, and file a complaint with the Landlord/Tenant Court if needed.
3. Does a landlord have to give new keys if they change the locks for maintenance or security?
   Yes. If a lock is changed for legitimate reasons (e.g., after repairs or for building security), the landlord must promptly provide you with a new set of keys.
4. Who can I contact for legal help if my landlord locks me out?
   You can contact the Superior Court - Landlord/Tenant Section, your county legal aid office, or New Jersey’s Department of Community Affairs for help.
5. Are there exceptions where a landlord can change locks without my permission?
   Only in rare cases, such as after an official eviction by court order, or for urgent safety reasons with appropriate notice and immediately providing you with keys, is a lock change permitted.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Jersey Renters

• Landlords cannot change locks without going through the official court eviction process.
• If you are locked out illegally, act quickly—document your case, seek help from police, and apply to the Landlord/Tenant Court for relief.
• Always use official forms and resources for your protection, and connect with tenant support agencies as needed.

Understanding these protections can help you respond effectively to any landlord-tenant dispute about lock changes or access to your rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Landlord/Tenant Court – Superior Court of New Jersey, Special Civil Part (handles lockout and eviction matters)
• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs – Landlord/Tenant Information
• Legal Services of New Jersey – Tenant Legal Help
• For emergencies, contact your local police or municipal court for immediate intervention.

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1. New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) §§ 2A:18-61.1 et seq.
2. Superior Court of New Jersey, Special Civil Part – Landlord/Tenant Section
3. New Jersey Department of Community Affairs – Landlord/Tenant Information
4. Verified Complaint – Landlord/Tenant (Form CN11255)
5. Emergent Application – Order to Show Cause (Form CN11253)

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