When Tenants Can Legally Change Locks in North Dakota

Feeling secure in your North Dakota rental is a right every renter deserves. But when issues like safety concerns or emergencies arise, many tenants wonder about changing locks. This article covers when and how North Dakota renters can change locks, what the law says, and how to stay compliant with your lease and state regulations.

Understanding North Dakota Law on Changing Locks

There is no specific statute in North Dakota Century Code that directly outlines tenant rights to change locks without landlord permission. However, general landlord-tenant laws address what’s permitted under your lease and your duty to maintain the premises responsibly (North Dakota Century Code Ch. 47-16¹).

Can Tenants Legally Change the Locks?

In most cases, tenants cannot change locks without written permission from the landlord. Lease agreements typically include a clause restricting changes to locks unless the landlord agrees. If your safety is threatened (e.g., by a former roommate or in domestic violence cases), you may have rights to additional protections (see below).

• If you change the locks without permission and do not provide the landlord with a key, you may risk eviction or charges for damages.
• Always review your lease for any additional rules or procedures about locks and keys.

Special Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence

North Dakota law provides extra protections if you are a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or similar threats. Under NDCC 47-16-17.1², tenants may request a lock change at their own expense.

• You must give the landlord written notice and documentation (restraining order, police report, or similar legal proof).
• The landlord must change the locks, or you may have the right to do so, but you must provide the landlord with updated keys.

If you need to take this step, use the appropriate documentation as outlined in state law. There is no specific "Change of Locks" state form, but your written request and proof of domestic violence must be provided in writing.

What About Emergency Repairs or Lost Keys?

If you are locked out due to lost keys or another emergency, most leases require that you contact your landlord. Changing the locks yourself—even in emergencies—without providing notice or a new key generally violates your lease.

• Contact your landlord or property manager for assistance. They may charge a reasonable fee for lock replacement or unlocking the door.
• Do not permanently alter locks or entry systems without written permission outside of situations covered by domestic violence laws.

Landlord's Right to Access and Key Requirements

In North Dakota, landlords must have reasonable access to the property for emergencies, inspections, or repairs—but must give proper notice, except in true emergencies (NDCC 47-16-07.3¹).

• If a tenant changes the locks and fails to provide the landlord with a key, the landlord could serve a notice to comply or vacate—and proceed with eviction if the tenant does not comply.

Action Steps for North Dakota Renters

• Review your lease for lock and security policies.
• If safety is threatened by domestic violence, make a written request for lock change and attach your protective order or police report.
  Sample action: Email your landlord with: “I am requesting a lock change, pursuant to NDCC 47-16-17.1, due to personal safety concerns. Attached is my [police report/protective order].”
• If you must change the lock yourself in allowed situations, provide the landlord with a new key immediately.
• Keep copies of all correspondence.

Official Forms and Contacts for Lock and Safety Issues

North Dakota does not publish a specific tenant lock change form, but documentation required under domestic violence law includes:

• Protective Order Form (SFN 7578): Used to obtain domestic violence restraining orders.
  You can find detailed information and court forms for protection orders through the North Dakota Courts – Domestic Violence Protection Orders resource.
• Your Written Request: There is no specific template, but write your request clearly, include your documentation, and deliver it by email or certified mail for proof.

Where to Turn for Disputes or Legal Help

All rental disputes and complaints in North Dakota are handled by North Dakota state district courts. Official information is available at the North Dakota Courts. For landlord-tenant information, visit the North Dakota Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Rights page.³

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I change the locks if I lose my keys in North Dakota?
   Generally, no. You should contact your landlord and follow the lease’s lockout procedures. Changing the locks without permission could be a lease violation.
2. What should I do if I feel unsafe and need a lock change?
   If your safety is threatened—especially due to domestic violence—you can request a lock change by providing your landlord with a written request and legal documentation.
3. Does my landlord need a key if I change the lock for safety?
   Yes. Even if allowed to change the locks, tenants must always provide the landlord with a key for emergencies and repairs.
4. Are there official lock change forms for renters?
   There is no official state lock change form; use a written request with the necessary legal documentation, such as a protection order if applicable.
5. Who handles landlord-tenant disputes in North Dakota?
   North Dakota state district courts hear all rental disputes. Visit the North Dakota Courts for more on filing or responding to a complaint.

Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Do not change locks without written permission—except as allowed under domestic violence protections.
• If you must change locks, always provide your landlord with a key.
• Communicate and document any request in writing for your records and legal protection.

When in doubt, review your lease and reach out to official resources for help. Your right to a safe home is important—know how to exercise it wisely.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights
• ND Courts: Domestic Violence Protection Orders
• North Dakota Courts (for dispute filings and information)
• Call 1-800-472-2685 for the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
• For legal help, contact Legal Services of North Dakota

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1. North Dakota Century Code Chapter 47-16 (Landlord and Tenant)
2. NDCC 47-16-17.1: Termination of Rental Agreement by Victim of Domestic Violence
3. North Dakota Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Rights

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