Can a Tenant Change the Locks? A Plain-English Guide
It is one of the questions we get asked most by both tenants and landlords. The short answer: it depends on your tenancy agreement, and the safest route is nearly always to agree it with your landlord first. This guide is general information, not legal advice — for your specific situation, Shelter or Citizens Advice can help.
What Your Tenancy Agreement Says Comes First
Many tenancy agreements include a clause saying tenants must not change or add locks without the landlord’s written consent. If yours does, changing the locks without permission could be a breach of the agreement, and you may be asked to pay to put things back.
If the Agreement Says Nothing
Where the agreement is silent, tenants in England with an assured shorthold tenancy are generally treated as having exclusive possession of the home. Even so, most advisers recommend keeping the original lock, refitting it or handing over keys at the end of the tenancy, and telling your landlord. In Wales, tenancies now work under occupation contracts with their own rules, so check your contract.
Good Reasons to Change the Locks
- After a break-in or attempted break-in
- When keys have been lost or stolen
- When someone who should no longer have access still has a key
- When the lock is broken, worn or not up to the standard your contents insurance needs
In most of these situations a reasonable landlord will agree quickly — and some will pay.
Advice for Landlords
- Change the locks between every tenancy — see landlord lock changes
- Respond quickly when a tenant reports lost keys or a break-in
- Keep a record of how many keys you issue
- Remember you generally need to give notice before entering a let property, except in an emergency
How We Handle It
When we are asked to change the locks on a rented property, we ask for the landlord’s or managing agent’s agreement first. If you are a tenant who is locked out, we can still let you in with proof that you live there. Lock changes start from £49 plus parts per cylinder, with no call-out fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tenant change the locks without the landlord’s permission?
Check your tenancy agreement first; many require written consent. Where it is silent, the safest course is still to tell your landlord and keep the original lock to refit at the end.
Does my landlord have to give me a key?
You must be able to get into your home. If you have lost your keys, contact your landlord or agent; if you are locked out, a locksmith can let you in with proof of residence.
Who pays for a lock change after a break-in?
It depends on the tenancy agreement and the insurance. Contents insurance, the landlord’s buildings insurance or the landlord directly may cover it. Ask before the work is done.
Need a Locksmith Right Now?
📞 07486 889391 — 24/7, no call-out fee, typically with you in around 30 minutes. Or WhatsApp a photo of your door for a fixed quote before anyone travels.