Your Landlord Locked You Out: What to Do in the First 24 Hours
An illegal lockout in Ontario is not a civil disagreement you sort out later — it is an offence, and the first day matters. What to do right now, whether the...
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I call the police if my landlord locked me out?
Yes. Changing your locks or otherwise denying you entry without a Sheriff-enforced eviction order is illegal under the Residential Tenancies Act. Police responses vary — some treat it as a civil matter — but it is worth calling, and you should ask for an incident number whatever they decide. That number is evidence later.
Can my landlord change the locks while I am out?
Only if they immediately give you a replacement key. Changing locks and withholding a key is an illegal lockout regardless of how much rent you owe.
Does owing rent change anything?
No. Rent arrears never entitle a landlord to lock you out. The only lawful route to remove a tenant is an LTB order enforced by the Sheriff.
What can the LTB order if I was locked out?
The Board can order the landlord to let you back in, order them to pay costs you incurred such as accommodation and moving, order a rent abatement, and impose an administrative fine.
Contact Legal Assist
Legal Assist Paralegal Services — Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario. Serving London, Ontario and Southwestern Ontario. Call 226-272-5153 or email general@legalassist.london for a free consultation.