Who is allowed to change the locks on a rental unit in Ontario? It is one of the most common questions locksmiths hear from both landlords and tenants. The short answer: neither side can lock the other out, and a lock change without handing over a key can be taken to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). This article covers what the LTB's own forms and guides say, plus the practical steps when a lock does need changing. It is general information, not legal advice.
Need a rental unit rekeyed properly, with keys for everyone entitled to them? Call (613) 707-4884.
Can a Landlord Change the Locks?
A landlord can change or rekey the locks on a unit or building — for example after a tenant reports lost keys, or between tenancies. The tenant must still get a working key. The LTB's tenant application (Form T2, Application about Tenant Rights) lists as a ground for complaint that the landlord "changed the locks or the locking system to my rental unit or building without giving me replacement keys."
In practice, a landlord who rekeys an occupied unit should plan to hand each tenant a new key at the same time the work is done.
Can a Landlord Lock a Tenant Out?
No. According to the LTB, "it is illegal for your landlord to lock you out of your unit." A landlord who wants a tenant to leave must get an eviction order from the LTB. Only the sheriff can enforce that order, remove the tenant and have the locks changed. Changing the locks to keep a tenant out without that process is an illegal lockout.
The LTB says a tenant who is locked out can:
- call the police if they need immediate help;
- contact the province's Rental Housing Enforcement Unit;
- file a T2 application asking for an order to be let back in and to continue the tenancy;
- get legal advice from a lawyer, legal clinic or paralegal.
The LTB stresses that tenants should act quickly.
Can a Tenant Change the Locks?
Not without the landlord's consent. The LTB has a specific landlord application, Form L8, for when "the tenant changed the locks to the rental unit or to the residential complex without your consent." Through it, a landlord can ask for an order that the tenant either provides a key to the new lock or pays the landlord's costs to change the locking system.
If you are a tenant with a real security concern, put the request to your landlord in writing. Examples are a lost key, an ex-partner with a key, or a recent break-in. Ask for the locks to be rekeyed, or for written permission to have it done, with a copy of the new key going to the landlord.
Common Situations
New tenant moving in
Ontario's rules don't say how often units must be rekeyed. Rekeying between tenants is still a sensible practice, because previous occupants, their guests or contractors may still have copies. Our guide rekey or replace your locks after moving explains the options.
Tenant lost their keys
The tenant should tell the landlord right away. Whoever pays, the lock change should end with both the landlord and the tenant holding working keys. See lost house keys: the first 24 hours.
Shared houses and student rentals
Bedroom locks in shared houses raise their own questions about safety and access. We cover them in student rental security in Ottawa.
What a Locksmith Needs From You
Before changing or opening a lock on a rental unit, a responsible locksmith will ask who you are and what right you have to authorize the work. That usually means photo ID and proof of ownership or tenancy. The locksmith can't settle a landlord–tenant dispute. Disputes belong with the LTB.
Landlords who need units rekeyed between tenancies, or property managers looking after several buildings, can see our property management lock services or call (613) 707-4884.