Can a tenant change the locks and refuse to provide a copy?
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Can a tenant change the locks and refuse to provide a copy?
My tenant changed the lock and will not give us a copy until they are gone. What rights do I have as a landlord to be able to get a copy of the key and inspect the inside of my house they are renting?
Asked on May 7, 2018 under Real Estate Law, New York
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
Generally, a lease will say that the landlord is entitled to a copy of the key to the premises. At this point, you could try to evict the tenant for violating a term of the lease for this and obviously for non-payment of rent. In fact, even if you don't have a written lease, you can sue for non-payment. At this point, you should consult directly with a real estae attorney who specialized in landlord-tenant cases. In the meantime, take no self-help measures such as forcing your way into the unit; you could find yourself on the wrong side of both a civil and criminal case if you do.
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