Can a landlord ever change the locks on a renter in Rhode Island?

Landlords can only change locks if they have a court order for eviction. Otherwise, it is illegal to change locks without tenant consent.

Is shutting off utilities considered a lockout?

Yes, Rhode Island law says it's a lockout if a landlord shuts off heat, water, or electricity to push you out.

What should I do first if I’m locked out without warning?

Try to contact your landlord. If denied entry, file a Complaint for Emergency Relief at your District Court as soon as possible.

How quickly will a court hearing happen for an illegal lockout?

Rhode Island courts usually schedule emergency lockout hearings very quickly—often within days, sometimes the same day.

What To Do If You're Locked Out in Rhode Island

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Rhode Island published June 21, 2025

If you’ve been locked out of your rental home in Rhode Island, it can be distressing and confusing. As a renter, understanding your rights and knowing how to respond quickly can protect your home and your well-being. This guide breaks down lockout laws, explains what landlords can and cannot do, and outlines your options if you're ever locked out—accidentally or otherwise—in Rhode Island.

Understanding Lockouts and Your Renter Rights in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, it is unlawful for a landlord to lock a tenant out of their rental unit without going through the proper court process. This applies even if you’re late on rent or if your lease has ended. "Self-help" evictions—where a landlord changes locks, removes doors, or shuts off utilities to force a renter to leave—are strictly prohibited by state law.

Your landlord cannot change the locks or remove you from your home without a court eviction order.
If you’ve been locked out, you have the right to regain access to your home and may ask a court to let you back in.
Landlords who perform illegal lockouts may be responsible for damages.

These protections are outlined under the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which regulates most residential tenancies in the state.^[1]

What Counts as an Illegal Lockout?

An illegal lockout means a landlord removes your belongings, changes the locks, or blocks entry to your rental unit without first obtaining an official eviction order from a court. Examples include:

Changing, adding, or removing door locks without your consent
Shutting off essential utilities (water, electricity, heat)
Physically blocking doors or access to your apartment

Your landlord must always file a formal eviction action through the Rhode Island District Court and receive a court judgment before you can be removed.^[2]

What Should You Do If You’re Locked Out?

If you find yourself locked out of your rental in Rhode Island, remain calm and take these steps:

Try to contact your landlord to ask for immediate access back into your home.
If you believe the lockout is intentional and illegal, gather evidence (photos of new locks, blocked entrances, or text/emails from your landlord).
If you cannot regain access, you can apply for an emergency hearing in the Rhode Island District Court, the official tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes in Rhode Island.

Emergency Court Relief: How to Get Back In

As a renter, you have the right to file a "Complaint for Emergency Relief" to request that the court order your landlord to let you back into your home. This process is designed for situations where illegal lockouts have occurred.

You should file at your local District Court during business hours. After-hours, police may assist if a tenant is unlawfully locked out.
The court can issue an order requiring your landlord to restore your access immediately.

The Rhode Island courts provide forms online, but you should use the latest version directly from the Rhode Island District Court official forms page.

Required Forms for Renters Experiencing a Lockout

Complaint for Emergency Relief (Form DC-94)
When and how to use: Use this form as soon as you discover you’ve been locked out without a court order. Complete it with a description of your lockout and file at your local District Court clerk's office. The court may schedule an emergency hearing and can order your landlord to give you access.
View and download Rhode Island District Court – Complaint for Emergency Relief

Example: Michaela comes home and finds her locks changed by her landlord with no eviction notice. She completes the Complaint for Emergency Relief (Form DC-94), files it at her District Court, and brings photos of her door as evidence.

Tip: If you are locked out and feel unsafe, you can call your local police non-emergency line for immediate assistance.

What Landlords Can and Cannot Do

Cannot: Lock you out, remove your belongings, disconnect utilities, or use threats to force you out.
Can: Start formal eviction proceedings with the court if there is a valid legal reason (e.g. nonpayment of rent), but must provide proper notice and receive a court judgment before taking any action.

Always request written documentation and keep records if a lockout occurs, as this will be important when working with the court.

Seeking Damages for an Illegal Lockout

If you win your case in court, the judge may order the landlord to pay you for any costs, inconvenience, or losses caused by the wrongful lockout. Damages may include hotel expenses, property loss, or personal hardship. Ensure you bring evidence, such as receipts or written communications, to your hearing.

The official body handling all housing and lockout matters is the Rhode Island District Court.

FAQ: Locked Out in Rhode Island

Can a landlord ever change the locks on a renter in Rhode Island?
Landlords can only change locks if they have a court order for eviction. Otherwise, it is illegal to change locks without tenant consent.
What if I lost my keys—can my landlord charge for unlocking the door?
If you lost your keys by accident, your landlord can usually charge for replacing keys or locks, but only if this is allowed by your lease and not as a form of punishment.
Is shutting off heat, water, or electricity considered a lockout?
Yes—Rhode Island law treats utility shut-offs intended to force a renter out as an illegal lockout.
What should I do first if I’m locked out with no warning?
Contact your landlord and ask for immediate entry. If refused, file the Complaint for Emergency Relief form at your district court as soon as possible.
How quickly will a court hearing happen for an illegal lockout?
Courts usually schedule emergency hearings quickly—often within days, sometimes the same day if urgent.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Rhode Island law protects renters from illegal lockouts—only a court can order eviction.
You can file an emergency court complaint to regain access if locked out unlawfully.
Keep records and seek help immediately if you believe your rights have been violated.

Responding quickly and using official forms are your best steps toward regaining access to your home after a lockout.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Rhode Island District Court – Landlord/Tenant: Handles all residential eviction and lockout proceedings.
Rhode Island Office of Housing and Community Development: Renters’ rights and emergency housing information.
Rhode Island Housing: Rental Resources: Renter support and housing counseling.
Rhode Island State Police: Local Police Departments: Contact in cases of urgent lockout or intimidation.