Can Tenants Change the Locks in Yukon? Legal Rights Explained

If you're a tenant in Yukon, navigating the rules about changing locks in your rental unit can feel overwhelming—especially during disputes or if you’re concerned about safety. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under the law will protect you and help you avoid accidental breaches of your tenancy agreement. This article outlines whether tenants can change locks in Yukon, what procedures you must follow, and what happens in emergencies or during an eviction.

Lock Changes: What the Yukon Law Says

In Yukon, residential tenancy relationships are governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon). The Act specifies when and how locks may be changed, both by landlords and tenants.

  • Tenants can only change locks with written permission from the landlord or with an order from the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO).
  • Landlords must not change any locks or restrict tenant access without either the tenant’s consent or an order from the RTO.
  • Both parties are obligated to provide each other with a new key as soon as a lock is changed legally.

This means you cannot change locks just because of a disagreement or if you feel unsafe, unless you have either your landlord's written agreement or an official order.

Process for Requesting a Lock Change

If you want to change the locks, follow these steps to stay compliant with Yukon’s tenancy laws:

  • Submit a written request for permission to your landlord, outlining the reasons for needing a lock change (e.g., lost keys, security concerns).
  • Wait for a response. Your landlord cannot arbitrarily deny reasonable requests, but they are not required to approve all requests.
  • If the landlord refuses and you have valid security or safety concerns, you may apply to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office for an order allowing you to change the locks.
  • If you receive written permission or an RTO order, have the locks changed. Immediately provide your landlord with a copy of the new key.
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Changing locks without following these steps may put you at risk of eviction or a claim against you for costs associated with obtaining access.

Landlord Access vs. Tenant Security

Landlords in Yukon have the right to enter the rental property for repairs, inspections, or emergencies, provided they give proper notice. Preventing access—by changing locks without permission—violates both landlord rights and your rental agreement.

Tip: Keep written records of all communications about lock changes. Always exchange keys promptly to avoid misunderstandings or tenancy breaches.

Lock Changes Due to Emergencies

In cases like lost keys or domestic violence, tenants may urgently need to change the locks. In such situations, notify your landlord immediately and request consent. If safety is at risk and you’re unable to get a quick response, seek an emergency order from the RTO. Here’s how:

  • Contact the RTO at Yukon Residential Tenancies Office and ask about an urgent order for lock changes.
  • Complete the appropriate application form (see below for details).
  • Explain the emergency and provide any supporting documentation.
  • Comply with the order and provide the landlord with the new key as soon as possible.

For more on tenant and landlord responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Relevant Forms for Yukon Tenants

The main form for requesting a lock change order in Yukon is:

  • Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (Form 5): Use this if your landlord does not give written permission for a lock change. Submit the form to the RTO to seek an order allowing you to change the locks. Download the form and get instructions from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office tenant forms page.

Example: If you are concerned about your safety because a former roommate still has keys, and your landlord won’t respond to requests, you can submit Form 5 to the RTO explaining the circumstances. If the RTO agrees, you will receive written authorization to change the locks legally and must provide your landlord with a key right away.

What Happens If You Change Locks Illegally?

Changing locks without permission could lead to the following:

  • Your landlord may file a complaint with the RTO.
  • You might be ordered to pay for any costs arising from the landlord’s inability to access the property.
  • This could be grounds for eviction in some situations if it blocks required repairs or legal entry.

Understand more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon so you know the full scope of your protections and obligations as a renter.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

  • Never change the locks without your landlord’s written consent or an RTO order.
  • Act quickly in emergencies: Notify your landlord and the RTO if immediate action is required.
  • Always provide your landlord with a new copy of the key after a legal lock change.

For more helpful guides, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them. If you’re planning to move, review Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Looking for a new rental home? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings for safe, convenient options anywhere in Canada.

FAQ: Yukon Lock Change Rules for Tenants

  1. Can my landlord change the locks while I am still renting?
    Not without your consent or an order from the Residential Tenancies Office. Both landlord and tenant must always have access to the rental property.
  2. What should I do if I lose my keys?
    Let your landlord know immediately and request permission to change the lock or replace the key. Do not change the lock without written approval or an order from the RTO.
  3. What if I feel unsafe and my landlord refuses to let me change the locks?
    You can apply to the RTO for an emergency order to change the locks if you provide sufficient reason.
  4. Does my landlord need to give me a copy of the new key if they change the locks?
    Yes, your landlord must provide you with the key without delay, just as you must provide the landlord with a key if you legally change the locks.
  5. Will I be evicted for changing the locks without permission?
    It is possible. Unauthorized lock changes can be grounds for eviction in some cases, but the RTO will consider whether your actions were justified and the circumstances involved.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon), see full Act.
  2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: official government rental resources.

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