Utah Tenant Rights: Domestic Violence Protections Explained

If you are a renter in Utah experiencing domestic violence or threats, there are specific protections under Utah law designed to help keep you safe. Utah's tenant laws make it possible for survivors to terminate a lease early, request lock changes, and be shielded from eviction due to domestic violence—all while maintaining privacy. Understanding these rights and your next steps can make a significant difference if you need immediate safety or a fresh start.

Utah Tenant Protections for Domestic Violence Survivors

Utah law gives tenants certain rights and protections if they have experienced domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or similar abuse. These protections address your right to safety in your home and your ability to leave a lease early without penalty when necessary.

Key Protections Include:

• Early Lease Termination: You can end a lease early under certain conditions if you or a household member is a victim of domestic violence or similar crimes.
• Requesting Lock Changes: Tenants have the right to request that their landlord change the locks promptly to protect against an abuser gaining access.
• Eviction Protection: You cannot be evicted solely because you are a survivor of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking.

These rights are outlined in the Utah Fit Premises Act and supported by the Cohabitant Abuse Procedures Act.^1,2

How to End Your Lease Early If You Are a Victim

If you are a survivor of domestic violence, you have the right to end your lease without penalty. To do this, you must provide specific written notice and supporting documentation to your landlord.

Required Documentation

• A copy of a protective order, police report, or relevant court order documenting domestic violence, stalking, or related crimes.
• Written notice that you are exercising your rights as provided by law.

Official Form: Notice to Terminate Rental Agreement due to Domestic Violence

• Form Name: Notice to Landlord to Terminate Lease Due to Domestic Violence
• When to Use: Use this form to legally notify your landlord of your intent to end your lease early because of domestic violence. For example, if you were issued a protective order last week, you may serve this notice with supporting documentation to your landlord.
• Download the official Notice form here (Utah Courts)

Once you submit all required paperwork, your lease can legally terminate 15 days after the notice, unless otherwise stated in the agreement.

Changing Locks for Safety

Utah law allows tenants who are victims of domestic violence or certain crimes to request a lock change. When you provide a written request, the landlord must change the locks within 48 hours of receiving documentation (such as a protective order or police report). You may be responsible for the actual cost, but the landlord cannot delay or refuse without valid reason.

How to Request a Lock Change

• Submit a written request for a lock change to your landlord.
• Include a copy of your protective order or police report.
• If your landlord fails to act, you may change the locks yourself and provide the landlord with a new key.

Tip: Always keep a copy of all documents and correspondence for your records.

Your Privacy and Confidentiality

Your landlord is legally required to keep any information you provide about domestic violence confidential. They cannot disclose your situation without your written consent unless authorized by law. This confidentiality applies to all forms, police reports, or court orders you may provide.

Which Housing Authority Handles Disputes and Protections?

If you have issues or need to resolve a dispute, the Utah State Courts - Landlord Tenant Section addresses residential tenancy matters. This is the main tribunal for landlord-tenant cases involving safety or rights violations in Utah.

Relevant Utah Tenant Legislation

• Utah Fit Premises Act
• Cohabitant Abuse Procedures Act

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me because of domestic violence in Utah?
   No, your landlord cannot evict you, raise your rent, or deny you housing solely because you are a victim of domestic violence, as specified by state law.
2. What proof do I need to break my lease for domestic violence in Utah?
   You must provide a written notice plus a court-issued protective order, police report, or other official documentation showing you are a victim of domestic violence or similar crimes.
3. How quickly must locks be changed after I request it in Utah?
   Landlords have up to 48 hours to change the locks after you make a written request and provide proper documentation of domestic violence.
4. Can the landlord share my domestic violence information with others?
   No, your landlord must keep all information about your situation confidential unless you give written permission or the law requires disclosure.
5. What can I do if my landlord refuses to cooperate in Utah?
   If your landlord does not respond to required requests, you may seek help from the Utah State Courts' landlord-tenant division or consult legal aid services for renters.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Utah State Courts – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help: Guides, forms, and information for renters
• Utah Department of Health & Human Services – Domestic Violence Resources
• Utah Legal Services: Free or low-cost legal help for tenants and domestic violence victims
• Utah Fit Premises Act – Full Text
• Cohabitant Abuse Procedures Act

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1. Utah Fit Premises Act
2. Utah Cohabitant Abuse Procedures Act
3. Utah State Courts – Landlord/Tenant Section

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