What proof do I need for a locksmith?

Ownership is typically verified by asking for and checking a valid photo ID, such as a driving licence or by checking a bill showing the name and address of the property. If you don’t have any identification to prove your ownership or residency, it’s likely the service will be refused.

Can a tenant change the lock on an apartment door?

Even though the landlord owns the property, the tenants possess it. Both sides have rights that the other is obligated to respect. State law may allow a tenant to change the lock, but it has to be done with consideration for the landlord’s rights. A tenant has the right to a habitable apartment.

Can a landlord refuse to fix a door lock in Texas?

If the landlord refuses to make needed repairs, many state let the tenant do it and withhold the cost from the rent. Texas law specifically says a tenant can do this if the landlord doesn’t re-key the locks within seven days of a written request.

What should I do if my landlord breaks my door lock?

The tenant should sue or complain to a local housing board instead. Whatever problem a tenant has with her landlord, she should put it in writing. Whether the problem is the landlord’s employee entering illegally or a broken lock, letting the owner know may solve things. Even if it doesn’t, it gets the issues down in writing.

Is it illegal for a landlord to lock out a tenant?

Challenging residents can make your life miserable. When a situation reaches its breaking point, you may feel the urge to simply rekey your property, say good riddance and find a better tenant. Not so fast. Even when your tenant isn’t following the rules, there are very few instances where a landlord can lock a resident out legally.

Even though the landlord owns the property, the tenants possess it. Both sides have rights that the other is obligated to respect. State law may allow a tenant to change the lock, but it has to be done with consideration for the landlord’s rights. A tenant has the right to a habitable apartment.

If the landlord refuses to make needed repairs, many state let the tenant do it and withhold the cost from the rent. Texas law specifically says a tenant can do this if the landlord doesn’t re-key the locks within seven days of a written request.

The tenant should sue or complain to a local housing board instead. Whatever problem a tenant has with her landlord, she should put it in writing. Whether the problem is the landlord’s employee entering illegally or a broken lock, letting the owner know may solve things. Even if it doesn’t, it gets the issues down in writing.

Challenging residents can make your life miserable. When a situation reaches its breaking point, you may feel the urge to simply rekey your property, say good riddance and find a better tenant. Not so fast. Even when your tenant isn’t following the rules, there are very few instances where a landlord can lock a resident out legally.