Can Your Landlord Lock You Out? Tenant Rights in Yukon

Getting locked out of your rental home can be stressful and confusing. If you’re a tenant in Yukon, it’s important to know your rights regarding landlord lockouts and what actions are permitted by law. This guide explains when – if ever – a landlord can change your locks, the correct legal process for evictions, and what to do if you face an unlawful lockout. Staying informed can help you protect your home and peace of mind.

Is It Legal for a Landlord to Lock Out a Tenant in Yukon?

In almost all situations, it is illegal for a landlord to lock a tenant out of their rental unit in Yukon without proper legal process. The primary law that protects tenants’ rights is the Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act1. Landlords must not remove your belongings, change your locks, or block your access unless they have a specific court or tribunal order.

What Does the Law Say?

  • Landlords cannot lock out tenants simply for missed rent or minor disputes.
  • Entry or removal of a tenant must follow lawful eviction procedures.
  • Lockouts are only legal if the landlord has an official Order of Possession approved by the Residential Tenancies Office.

For a complete overview of landlord and tenant rules, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Understanding the Proper Eviction Process

If your landlord believes they have cause to end your tenancy (like unpaid rent, major damage, or other legal reasons), they must follow a defined process:

  • Serve you with the correct eviction notice form, giving the required notice period.
  • If you don’t leave by the notice date, the landlord must apply for an Order of Possession with Yukon’s Residential Tenancies Office (official info here).
  • Only after the Order of Possession is granted can the landlord legally arrange to remove you, usually with a bailiff’s assistance.

Landlords cannot physically remove a tenant or change locks on their own authority, even if rent is overdue.

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What Should You Do if You’re Locked Out?

If you return home and find you’ve been locked out without proper notice or a court/tribunal order:

  • Contact your landlord right away and request immediate access.
  • If the landlord refuses, document the situation (photos, dates, communications) and seek legal help.
  • Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an order to regain access or for compensation.

Form for Tenants: If you’ve been locked out improperly, you can apply using the “Application for Dispute Resolution – Form 13” from the Residential Tenancies Office. Access the form and instructions here.

  • When to use: When the landlord locks you out without a valid Order of Possession or after an invalid eviction.
  • How to use: Complete the form with your situation details. Submit it to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office in person, by mail, or by email. Attach your documentation (photos, communications, proof of tenancy).

If you’re ever unsure about your lease, rules, or what happens after signing, check out What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for helpful guidance.

How to Protect Yourself as a Tenant

You’re protected from sudden lockouts in Yukon. If your landlord acts outside the law, you have resources and pathways to restore your rights and potentially seek compensation.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Lockouts in Yukon

  1. Can my landlord lock me out for not paying rent?
    No. In Yukon, non-payment of rent is not a lawful reason for a landlord to immediately lock out a tenant. The landlord must serve proper notice and apply for an Order of Possession through the Residential Tenancies Office.
  2. What should I do if I’m locked out without proper notice?
    Document everything, contact the landlord, and file an Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 13) with the Residential Tenancies Office right away.
  3. Can my landlord change the locks if I have been evicted?
    Only after the Yukon tribunal grants an Order of Possession can a landlord legally change the locks to prevent tenant re-entry.
  4. Who enforces eviction orders in Yukon?
    The Residential Tenancies Office provides the legal authority. Occasionally, a sheriff or official bailiff may assist with enforcement.

Key Takeaways

  • Your landlord cannot lock you out in Yukon without first obtaining a legal Order of Possession.
  • You should receive an eviction notice and have a chance to respond or dispute the reason.
  • If you are locked out unlawfully, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for access and compensation.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Read the full legislation and official tenant guide
  2. Residential Tenancies Office Yukon: Official Yukon landlord-tenant resource

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