Can a Landlord Change Locks Without Tenant Consent in North Dakota?

Living in a rental home means balancing your privacy and security with your landlord's property rights. If you're renting in North Dakota, you may wonder whether your landlord is allowed to change the locks on your rental unit without your permission. Understanding the legal rules can help renters stay informed and respond confidently to lock changes or lockouts.

Lock Changes and Tenant Rights in North Dakota

Under North Dakota law, landlords cannot change locks or otherwise exclude a tenant from their rental home without following the proper legal process. This protection means your landlord is not allowed to lock you out, remove doors, or turn off utilities to force you to leave—even if you are behind on rent.

North Dakota's residential landlord-tenant laws prohibit "self-help" evictions. Instead, to remove a tenant, landlords must:

• Provide proper written notice (such as for nonpayment of rent or breach of lease)
• File for eviction (also called an "unlawful detainer" action) in the North Dakota district court
• Wait for a court order before a forced removal or lock change

For emergencies, such as when a tenant has abandoned the unit, landlords may change locks. However, even in these rare cases, proper notice—and often a court process—must occur first.

Legislation: Where Is This Rule Found?

These lockout protections come from the North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16, Landlord and Tenant, which covers rental agreements, evictions, and tenant protections. The law clearly states that only the court can order the removal of a tenant from a rental home.^[1]

What If My Landlord Illegally Changes the Locks?

If you are locked out or your landlord changes the locks without following legal steps, you can:

• Request immediate access. Politely ask your landlord, in writing, to let you back in or provide a new key.
• Document everything. Keep written notes, copies of messages, and photos if possible.
• Contact local law enforcement. North Dakota law enforcement can intervene if a landlord has unlawfully excluded you from the rental property.
• File a complaint with the court. You may file an action (such as for wrongful lockout or an unlawful detainer) in district court.

Relevant Official Forms

• Eviction Summons and Complaint (North Dakota Supreme Court - Form 9): Used by landlords to start an eviction. As a tenant, you may receive this form if your landlord files a case. Respond promptly if you are served. View Form and Rules.
• Answer to Eviction (Self-Help Center Form): As a renter, you can use this answer form to present your case in court if you believe your eviction or lockout was illegal. North Dakota Legal Self Help: Eviction.

Filing these forms usually involves submitting them to your local North Dakota District Court.

Who Handles Landlord-Tenant Disputes in North Dakota?

Landlord-tenant disputes and eviction cases are managed by the North Dakota District Court. This is the official tribunal for residential rental and eviction matters in the state.

Steps to Take If Your Landlord Changes the Locks

If you believe your rights have been violated, acting promptly and calmly is essential. Here are typical next steps:

• Make a written request to your landlord for immediate access and note the date and time
• Gather and save all communications with your landlord
• Contact local police or sheriff to report an illegal lockout
• Seek advice from a lawyer or a local legal aid organization
• File complaints or respond to court paperwork as needed

Lockouts are stressful, but North Dakota law is clear: landlords must use the courts, not self-help, to remove tenants or change locks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord lock me out without notice in North Dakota?
   No, a landlord cannot lock you out or change the locks without following the proper legal process, including court-approved eviction.
2. What should I do if my landlord changes the locks illegally?
   Document what happened, contact your landlord in writing, notify local law enforcement, and consider seeking legal advice or going to court.
3. Do I have to move out if the landlord changes the locks after an eviction?
   If a court has issued an order for eviction, the landlord may change locks only after following the official process, often under law enforcement supervision.
4. Are there any exceptions for emergency lock changes?
   Landlords may change locks for emergencies (such as abandonment), but legal notice and due process must still be observed.

Conclusion: Key Points for Renters

• Landlords cannot change locks or forcibly remove tenants without a court order
• North Dakota prohibits "self-help" evictions and protects renters from illegal lockouts
• Respond quickly, document issues, and seek legal help if your rights are violated

Understanding your rights under North Dakota's landlord-tenant law helps ensure your rental home stays safe and secure.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Legal Self Help Center – Eviction Process
• Find Your North Dakota District Court
• Read the North Dakota Century Code: Landlord-Tenant Law
• Legal Services of North Dakota – Free and low-cost tenant legal support
• North Dakota Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Resources

---

1. North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant
2. North Dakota Courts – Eviction & Lockout Legal Self-Help
3. North Dakota District Court – Residential Tenancy Disputes
4. Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Guide

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations