Can Utah Landlords Change Locks Without Tenant Consent?

If you're renting in Utah and worried about your landlord changing your locks without notice or consent, you're not alone. Many renters wonder what their rights are when it comes to property access. Knowing Utah's laws can help you protect your home and respond effectively if your landlord changes the locks.

Utah Law: When Can Landlords Change Locks?

Utah state law is specific about when and how a landlord can change the locks on a rental property. In almost all cases, a landlord is not allowed to change locks or otherwise exclude a tenant from the property without a court order. Doing so without following the lawful process is called an "illegal lockout" and is prohibited.

• Landlords must NOT lock out tenants without a court-ordered eviction.
• Changing locks as a method of eviction is illegal unless the landlord has obtained a judgment for possession from the court.
• The process is governed by the Utah Code Title 78B, Chapter 6: Forcible Entry and Detainer.

This means that even if you are behind on rent, your landlord cannot change the locks to force you out unless they have followed all eviction procedures and received approval from the court.^[1]

What Is an Eviction Order?

An eviction order is a legal document issued by the court that allows a landlord to regain possession of the property. Only after a valid eviction order and after proper notice can locks be changed to prevent a tenant’s re-entry.

• Landlords must file a complaint in court and serve you with proper notice (usually a 3-Day Notice to Vacate for non-payment or other breaches).
• You have the right to respond or contest the eviction before any lock change.
• If the court grants the eviction, the landlord may get permission ("Writ of Restitution") allowing law enforcement to help reclaim the property.

What to Do If Your Locks Are Changed Without Consent

If you return home to find your locks changed without notice, you have legal rights and can take action:

• Contact the local police and explain you are being unlawfully excluded from your home.
• File a complaint with the court to regain access. Tenants can use the Utah Courts: Motion for Temporary Order form (View official form and instructions) to request immediate court intervention. For example, if your landlord changed the locks without any eviction order, you can submit this form to ask the judge to allow you back into your unit.

Are There Exceptions?

The only time a landlord may change locks without tenant consent in Utah is urgent repair or emergency situations that directly threaten safety or property (such as a fire or flood). However, landlords must restore access as soon as the emergency ends and must not use an "emergency" as a means for eviction.

Relevant Forms and Where to Get Help

• Motion for Temporary Order (Utah Courts landlord-tenant lockout motion instructions): Used by renters if they are locked out without an eviction order.
• 3-Day Notice to Vacate (Utah Courts Form 105A): Landlords must serve this before proceeding with eviction. See official forms
• Utah Courts handles all residential tenancy eviction cases. Learn more at the Utah State Courts official website.

FAQ: Lock Changing and Tenant Rights in Utah

1. Can my landlord change the locks if I am behind on rent?
   No. Landlords cannot change locks for non-payment of rent without obtaining a court order and following legal eviction procedures.
2. What should I do if my landlord changes the locks illegally?
   Document everything, call law enforcement if you are denied entry, and file a "Motion for Temporary Order" with Utah Courts to regain access.
3. Are there situations when my landlord can change the locks for safety?
   Only in emergencies (like fire or immediate danger). Your access must be restored once the emergency ends.
4. Can my landlord enter for repairs or showings after changing locks?
   Unless you consent or it's an emergency, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ notice and cannot change locks to limit your access.
5. Is my landlord required to give me a key if they re-key for legitimate reasons?
   Yes. If locks are changed for maintenance or at your request, you must be promptly provided a key.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Utah Renters

• Your landlord cannot legally change your locks without a court order for eviction.
• If you are locked out, document the situation and seek help immediately using the courts and law enforcement if needed.
• Utah’s landlord-tenant laws are in place to protect renters from illegal lockouts and ensure safe, fair housing.

Understanding your rights enables you to respond confidently if an issue with lock changes arises.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah State Courts – Landlord-Tenant Resources and Forms
• Utah Legal Services – Tenant Assistance & Legal Help
• Utah Department of Commerce – Division of Consumer Protection (file a complaint)
• For urgent lockout support, contact your local county court or law enforcement right away.

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1. Utah Code Title 78B, Chapter 6, Section 816: Forcible Entry and Detainer – Unlawful Exclusion and Lockouts
2. Utah Courts – Landlord-Tenant Lockout Information and Forms

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