Area of Law: Landlord and Tenant
Answer # 432
Who can change the locks?
Region: Ontario Answer # 432Although a tenant has the right to privacy, under the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), a tenant is not allowed to change the locks without the consent of the landlord. However, a landlord who provides the tenant with the required written notice to enter, may change the locks as long as the tenant is provided with new keys. If you are having trouble with your tenant or your landlord and would like help, ask a lawyer now.
If the tenant wants the locks changed because of safety and security concerns the tenant should write a letter to the landlord stating all their concerns. A practical solution may be to get permission to change the locks or to install an additional lock and provide the landlord with a key.
If the landlord changes the locks and does not provide the tenant with a key, the tenant can call the police to assist in gaining entrance to their home. If the problem continues, the tenant can also apply to the Landlord and Tenant Board for an order requiring the landlord to provide a key.
For additional information on changing locks or making an application to the Board, visit the Landlord and Tenant Board.
Help for Tenants
A criminal record will affect your ability to be approved for a residential lease. To erase your criminal record, learn more at Pardon Partners. It’s easier than you think.
If you are having financial problems, it may be difficult to rent an apartment or condominium. You can get help to clear your debt and repair your credit. For easy-to-understand debt solutions on your terms, contact our preferred experts 4Pillars and rebuild your financial future. With 60 locations across Canada, they will help you design a debt repayment plan and guide you with compassionate advice. No judgment. For help, visit 4Pillars or call toll-free 1-844-888-0442 .
If you are a Tenant, you can add your monthly rent payment to your credit report using FrontLobby. This can:
- Contribute to improving your credit score (Renters have reported 33pts to 84pts jumps)
- Help establish a positive credit history with a new rent tradeline
- Improve your access to credit related rewards (better bank loans, credit cards, mortgage rates)
Help for Landlords & Property Managers
For legal advice and assistance with a residential tenancy and applications to the Landlord and Tenant Board, contact our preferred Landlord and Tenant experts Nicola (Nick) Giannantonio Legal Services .
If you are a Landlord or Property Manager, you can report rent payments to Credit Bureaus and screen Tenants using FrontLobby. This can:
- Attract financially responsible applicants interested in building credit with their rent
- Decrease rent delinquencies (Landlords have reported 92% reductions) and recover unpaid rent
- Reduce Tenant turnover and improve monthly cash flow
Get legal help
If you are having trouble with your tenant or your landlord and would like help, ask a lawyer now.
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