Changing Locks as a Tenant in Newfoundland and Labrador

Feeling secure in your rental home is essential. In Newfoundland and Labrador, tenants often ask if and when they have the right to change the locks on their rental unit. This guide explains your legal rights, the steps involved, and things to consider—so you can protect your privacy while respecting your landlord’s rights too.

Understanding Your Right to Change Locks

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador), both tenants and landlords have specific rights regarding locks and entry. Generally, tenants cannot change the locks without the landlord’s written consent, except in certain urgent situations. This helps balance your right to privacy with a landlord’s right to access the property when needed.

When Might a Tenant Want to Change Locks?

• After a break-in or if you feel unsafe
• Lost or stolen keys
• Following a roommate moving out under tense circumstances

In any of these situations, talk to your landlord first—it’s usually in both parties’ best interest to address safety quickly and openly.

Legal Requirements for Changing Locks

The law in Newfoundland and Labrador makes it clear:

• Tenants must not alter, change, or add locks without the landlord’s written permission.
• If locks are changed without consent, tenants may have to provide the landlord with a key immediately or restore the original locks.
• Landlords have the right to enter your unit only under specific circumstances—typically with 24 hours’ written notice, or in emergencies.

For a more detailed overview of general tenant and landlord rights in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Are There Any Exceptions?

In rare emergency situations—such as after a break-in or domestic violence—you may need to act fast. If it’s impossible to contact your landlord and your safety is at risk, you could change the locks, but you must:

• Inform your landlord as soon as possible
• Provide a new key promptly

If your lease includes stricter rules (like requiring landlord approval in all cases), those lease terms usually apply—unless they conflict with the Residential Tenancies Act.

Check your lease agreement for any extra requirements about locks and keys. If you aren’t sure of your responsibilities after move-in, our guide Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained offers helpful context.

Step-by-Step: How to Change the Locks Legally

To avoid disputes and stay on good terms with your landlord, follow these steps:

• Review your lease agreement for any specific rules about locks.
• Request written permission from your landlord—email or a signed letter is best.
• If approved, arrange for a professional locksmith. Keep receipts for your records.
• Provide the landlord with a full set of new keys immediately after the locks are changed.

What Official Forms Are Involved?

There is no government-mandated “lock change request” form. However, communication in writing is crucial. If your landlord refuses a reasonable request, or you face disagreement about locks, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Section for dispute resolution.

Form: Application to the Director (Residential Tenancies Section)

• When to use: If you and your landlord cannot agree about lock changes and need an official decision.
• Where to get it: Application to the Director (PDF)
• How to use it: Complete the form, outlining the dispute (e.g., landlord refusing to permit necessary lock change), and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Section for review and a decision.

Landlord Entry, Privacy, and Keys

Remember, while you have a right to privacy, your landlord also needs reasonable access. By law, they can only enter your unit for:

• Making repairs (with proper notice)
• Inspections (with notice)
• Emergencies (no notice required)

If you change the locks and don’t provide them with a key, you may be violating the law and could face consequences like fines or eviction proceedings.

What Happens at Move-Out?

When your tenancy ends, you’re responsible for returning all keys, including any copies made after a permitted lock change. This is crucial to ensuring you get your security deposit back. For tips on what to expect when your lease is over, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

For those looking for a new apartment, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and browse secure, updated listings in Newfoundland and across the country.

FAQ: Changing Locks in Newfoundland and Labrador Rentals

1. Can I change the locks without my landlord’s permission?
   No, you must get your landlord’s written consent first, unless it’s a true emergency. Even then, you must notify them and provide a key promptly.
2. What if my landlord refuses a reasonable lock change request?
   You can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancies Section using the Application to the Director form.
3. Do I have to pay for lock changes?
   Usually yes, unless the lock was damaged through no fault of your own (such as after a break-in). In that case, you should discuss who covers the cost with your landlord.
4. What happens if I do not give the landlord a key after changing the locks?
   You may be breaking the law and your lease agreement. This could result in your landlord filing a complaint or taking action to end your tenancy.
5. Does my landlord need a key at all times?
   Yes, the landlord should always have access for emergencies and allowable entry situations. Failing to provide a key may be grounds for dispute resolution.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always seek written permission before changing locks, except in true emergencies
• Promptly provide a new key to your landlord if locks are changed
• Review your lease and communicate with your landlord to avoid misunderstandings

Changing locks can protect your safety, but must be done legally to avoid trouble and remain in good standing during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• For questions, contact the Residential Tenancies Section of Service NL — the authority for rental housing in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Review the Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 for details on privacy and lock rules.
• If you need further advice, local tenant advocacy organizations or Service NL can help clarify your rights.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2018 (Newfoundland and Labrador) – Full Legislation
2. Service NL Residential Tenancies Section – Official Website
3. Application to the Director form – PDF Download

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