Can Oregon Landlords Change Locks Without Tenant Consent?

Facing a lock change or worried about being locked out? Oregon renters often wonder whether their landlord is allowed to change the locks without warning or consent. Understanding your legal protections under Oregon law can help keep your home—and your rights—secure.

Your Rights as a Renter: Lock Changes and Legal Protections

In Oregon, landlords cannot change locks or otherwise restrict your access to your rental unit without proper legal reason and process. This protection is outlined in the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90). Lockouts or changing locks without due process are sometimes called "self-help evictions" and are generally prohibited.

When Can a Landlord Change the Locks?

Landlords in Oregon can only legally change the locks on a rental unit in specific circumstances:

• Under court order, such as after a successful eviction (Forcible Entry and Detainer, or FED, process)
• If specifically allowed under the rental agreement—with your written consent
• For repairs, maintenance, or emergency safety concerns (but you must be given notice, and access must be restored promptly)

If a landlord changes locks for one of the legal reasons above, they must provide the tenant with a new key promptly, except in cases of court-ordered eviction.

What is an Illegal Lockout?

An illegal lockout occurs when your landlord changes your locks, removes doors, or otherwise denies you access to your home without following the correct legal procedure. This is prohibited by Oregon law, and you may have the right to take legal action or recover damages (ORS 90.375).

Eviction and Lock Changes: The Legal Process

Before locks can be changed due to an eviction:

• Your landlord must issue an official written eviction notice (such as a 72-Hour or 30-Day Notice to Vacate), as required by Oregon law.
• If you do not move out or resolve the issue, the landlord must take the case to the local county Circuit Court to obtain a court order for eviction (FED process).
• Only after the sheriff enforces a court-issued eviction can the landlord lawfully change the locks and deny you access.

Landlords must never take lock changes into their own hands as a way to make a tenant leave. This can result in penalties against the landlord, including paying damages or even letting the tenant return to the home (See Oregon Judicial Department: FED Info Sheet).

Required Forms and Documents

• Eviction Notice (e.g., 72-Hour Notice for Nonpayment of Rent): Used by landlords to start the eviction process for nonpayment. For example, if you fall behind on rent, your landlord may deliver this form, which gives you a limited time to pay or move out. Official 72-Hour Notice Form (PDF)
• Summons and Complaint for Eviction (FED) – Form 34.010.3a: After giving an eviction notice, landlords must file this with the local court to officially request an eviction. You will receive this form if your landlord starts a case against you. Review the court paperwork carefully and consider responding or seeking legal advice right away. Official Summons and Complaint (PDF)
• Tenant's Motion and Order for Return of Possession (ORS 90.403): If you are locked out illegally, you can file this form with the local Circuit Court to ask the judge to let you back in. Tenant's Motion and Order for Return of Possession

If you're ever locked out or have your keys taken without proper notice and court process, you should contact your local Circuit Court right away, or seek legal assistance. Do not try to force entry yourself, as this could complicate your legal situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can my landlord change the locks if I am late on rent?
   No. In Oregon, a landlord cannot change your locks just because you are late on rent. They must first serve proper notice and follow the official court eviction process.
2. If my landlord changes the locks illegally, what should I do?
   File a Tenant's Motion for Return of Possession with your local Circuit Court as soon as possible. This may allow you to regain entry and potentially receive damages.
3. Is it ever legal for a landlord to change locks during my tenancy?
   Only in emergencies, for agreed safety upgrades, or after a court eviction order. Even then, if you remain in the unit, they must provide you with keys promptly.
4. Does Oregon law protect me from self-help eviction?
   Yes. The Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act forbids landlords from changing locks or denying access without following due process.
5. Which government agency handles rental disputes and lockout complaints?
   Rental disputes and eviction cases in Oregon are handled by the Oregon Circuit Courts.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Oregon landlords cannot change your locks or lock you out without proper court process.
• If you are locked out illegally, file a Tenant's Motion for Return of Possession immediately and contact your local court.
• Always check official forms and legislation for up-to-date renter protections.

If you stay informed and know your rights, you can handle lock disputes with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Circuit Courts (residential tenancy cases)
• Oregon Housing and Community Services: Tenant Help
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act — Full Legislation
• Oregon Attorney General: Landlord/Tenant Information

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
2. Oregon Judicial Department: FED (Eviction) Information Sheet
3. Tenant's Motion and Order for Return of Possession (ORS 90.403)

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