Changing Locks as a Tenant in Saskatchewan: What You Need to Know

Are you renting in Saskatchewan and concerned about security or your landlord's access to your home? The rules around changing locks in Saskatchewan are strict, and it's important to know your rights and responsibilities before you make any changes. This guide helps tenants understand when changing locks is allowed, what the law says, and how to resolve common lock-related problems.

Tenant and Landlord Rights for Locks in Saskatchewan

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)¹, both landlords and tenants have certain rights about locks and keys. Learning these rules can help avoid misunderstandings and potential eviction risks.

Can Tenants Change the Locks?

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, you cannot change the locks on your rental unit without your landlord's prior written consent. The law requires that both the landlord and all other tenants have access to the rental unit at all times, unless there is a special order by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

• Changing locks without permission may be seen as a violation of your lease agreement and could be grounds for eviction.
• A landlord also cannot change the locks without giving you a new key immediately, unless specifically permitted by the ORT.

What to Do If You Need to Change the Locks

If you have concerns about safety, unauthorized entry, or lost keys, you should:

• Contact your landlord to request a lock change and explain the reason.
• Ask for written permission from your landlord before making any changes.
• Discuss who will pay for the lock change (it may be your responsibility unless otherwise agreed).
• If approved, ensure the landlord and any other tenants have copies of the new keys.

If your landlord refuses to respond to reasonable security concerns, you can file a claim with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). Always try to solve the issue with your landlord first.

What the Law Says: Key Legislation

Saskatchewan's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 is the main law governing rental agreements and tenant-landlord relationships. The Act specifically covers rules about locks and access. For a full overview of tenant rights in the province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

What If Locks Are Changed Illegally?

If a landlord changes the locks and does not provide you with a new key right away, or a tenant changes the locks without permission:

• You may file an application with the ORT to resolve the issue.
• The board may order the party to provide access or restore the original locks.

Learn more about resolving disputes and the obligations of each party in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Forms and Processes: What to Do If Lock Changes Become a Dispute

If you and your landlord cannot reach an agreement or if your landlord changes the locks illegally, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for an order. Here's what you need to know:

• Form Name: Application for an Order of Possession or Other Order (ORT Form 6)
• When to use: When you're locked out by the landlord or need an official order regarding locks or access.
• How to apply: Submit the form to the ORT, describe your situation (e.g., landlord changed locks, tenant needs entry), and attach any supporting documents.
• View and download the official Application for an Order of Possession or Other Order (ORT Form 6)
• Office of Residential Tenancies – How to file an application

Practical Example

If your landlord changed the locks while you were away and did not provide you with a new key immediately, you should:

1. Contact the landlord in writing to request a key.
2. If you receive no response, fill out ORT Form 6 with details of what happened.
3. Submit the form and evidence (emails, texts) to the ORT for review.

Summary: Key Points on Changing Locks

• You need written permission from your landlord to change the locks.
• Your landlord cannot change locks to exclude you without an order.
• The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles lock disputes and tenant applications.

Knowing your options can help maintain a good rental experience. For more in-depth support on repairing, safety, and rental responsibility, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Looking for a new secure place to rent? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme anytime.

FAQs About Changing Locks in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. Can I change the locks to my rental unit if I lose my keys?
   If you've lost your keys, you must get your landlord's written consent before changing any locks, and provide them with a copy of the new keys.
2. What should I do if my landlord changes the locks and won’t give me a new key?
   Contact your landlord right away. If they refuse, submit an Application for an Order of Possession or Other Order (ORT Form 6) to the Office of Residential Tenancies.
3. Is it legal for my landlord to change the locks during an eviction?
   No, unless the ORT has issued an eviction order, the landlord cannot legally change locks and deny you access, even during an eviction process.
4. Who pays for lock changes in a Saskatchewan rental?
   This depends on the agreement with your landlord. If the change is due to tenant fault (lost keys or damage), you may be responsible. For landlord-initiated changes, the landlord must provide new keys at no cost.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants in Saskatchewan

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – File applications, read about tenant and landlord rights.
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (PDF)
• Toll-Free Tenant Inquiry Line: 1-888-215-2222
• Local legal clinics and tenant resource organizations (search at saskatchewan.ca)

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1. Saskatchewan. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. See especially sections 53 (Locks and keys), 66, and related tenancy provisions.
2. Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan. Forms and guidance.

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