Oregon Tenant Rights: Changing Locks Lawfully

If you're a renter in Oregon, knowing your rights around changing locks can help you stay safe and avoid legal issues. Emergencies or safety concerns may call for a lock change, but there are legal requirements you should understand before acting. This guide explains what Oregon law says, steps for renters, required forms, and where to turn for support.

When Can Renters Change Locks in Oregon?

Oregon law allows tenants to change locks in certain situations, but there are strict requirements to follow. Lock changes most often occur when:

• There is a safety concern, such as after experiencing domestic violence or threats to your safety
• You need to secure your rental after a break-in or similar emergency
• You and your landlord mutually agree to a lock change

It's important to follow Oregon's legal steps so you don't risk violating your lease agreement.

After Domestic Violence, Stalking, or Sexual Assault

Under Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 90.459, tenants who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking have the right to change locks promptly for protection.

• You must request the lock change in writing from your landlord.
• The landlord is required to change the locks or allow you to do so within 48 hours of the written request.
• If you change the locks yourself, you must provide a new key to the landlord immediately.

Other Situations: Break-Ins or Emergency Repairs

For emergencies like a break-in, you should contact your landlord first and request permission to change the locks. While Oregon law doesn't explicitly cover all emergencies, you should retain documentation and communicate in writing. Providing the landlord with a new key is necessary unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Landlord's Role and Obligations

• Landlords must not unreasonably refuse requests if the law or the lease allows lock changes.
• The cost of changes due to tenant protection (e.g., after domestic violence) is usually the tenant's responsibility, unless your lease states otherwise.
• Landlords may not retain copies of keys for new locks changed under tenant rights without receiving one from you.

For disputes, you can seek assistance from the Oregon Housing and Community Services or file a complaint with your local housing authority.

Required Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice of Request for Lock Change (ORS 90.459): This is a written statement you provide your landlord to request a lock change after domestic violence or similar protection needs. No official state form exists, but your request must be in writing and reference your rights under ORS 90.459. Practical example: If you've obtained a restraining order, attach a copy to your written request. See Oregon Revised Statutes 90.459.
• Verification of Domestic Violence or Stalking: Landlords may request reasonable verification, like a copy of a protective order. This is not an official Oregon form, but may involve providing court documentation. Access Oregon protective order information.

If you need to file a complaint about a landlord refusing a lawful lock change, contact the Oregon Housing and Community Services complaint process.

Tribunal Handling Landlord-Tenant Disputes in Oregon

In Oregon, landlord-tenant matters are generally handled in local county circuit courts, but the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) oversees state policy and complaints related to rentals. For legal disputes, you can review the Oregon Judicial Department website to find your local circuit court.

What Does Oregon Tenant Law Say?

Oregon's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90) sets out the rights to safety, lock changes, and repair requests for tenants. Key sections to review include:

• ORS 90.459 – Rights to lock changes for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking
• ORS 90.360-90.370 – General repairs, tenant remedies, and rent withholding

Tenants should always put requests in writing and keep copies of communications with their landlord when requesting a lock change.

Action Steps for Oregon Renters: How to Change Locks Lawfully

If you believe you need to change your locks, these steps will help ensure you remain protected by Oregon law:

• Assess your safety or emergency need (e.g., domestic violence, burglary).
• Send your landlord a written request for the lock change. Clearly state why and reference ORS 90.459 if applicable.
• Wait for the landlord to respond or act within 48 hours (for protected situations). Otherwise, wait a reasonable period for non-urgent lock changes.
• If there is no action, you may change the locks yourself – but you must provide a copy of the new key to your landlord right away.
• Keep all written communications and receipts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Locks in Oregon

1. Can my landlord refuse permission to change my locks?
   In most cases, landlords cannot refuse a reasonable request, especially if you are a victim of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault as defined by Oregon law.
2. What if my landlord won't respond to my lock change request?
   If the landlord does not respond within the required time (usually 48 hours in emergency protection cases), you can legally change the locks but must provide a new key promptly.
3. Do I have to pay for the lock change?
   Generally, tenants pay for the lock change unless the lease or rental agreement states otherwise.
4. Can I change the locks for general privacy without a threat?
   Changing locks for general privacy usually requires landlord approval unless your lease gives you that right. Always check your agreement and consult Oregon law.
5. Does changing the locks affect my eviction rights?
   No. Changing locks for your safety does not protect you from lawful eviction processes. All standard eviction laws still apply.

Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• You have rights to change locks after domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking – just follow Oregon's legal process.
• Written requests and timely communication help maintain your legal protections.
• Always give your landlord a copy of the new key after changing the locks.

Knowing when and how to change locks in Oregon can help you stay secure in your rental home while meeting all legal requirements.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
• Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) – Tenant protection resources and complaint instructions
• Oregon Judicial Department: Find Your Local Court
• Restraining Order Forms & Information

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1. Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 90 - Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Official Website
3. Oregon Judicial Department: Landlord-Tenant Disputes

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