Changing locks and getting tenants to return keys after they are out of the property is a problem often faced by landlords. So here are a couple of questions this week for Ask Landlord Hank. Remember Hank is not an attorney and is not offering legal advice. If you have a question for him please fill out his form below.
Dear Landlord Hank:
What can I do?
I had to evict my tenants and they took all their stuff out but don’t want to give me my keys to the property?
Can I change the locks, or would it be illegal?
– Lindsay
Dear Landlady Lindsay,
if your tenants have already been evicted and they have removed all their belongings you should change the locks.
I would do this as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Hank Rossi
Also Hank had a similar question last year.
My tenant is leaving before lease is up and he is refused to give me my house keys what do I do?
-Shari
Dear Landlady Shari,
I’d ask the tenant via email or text so you have something in writing when he is leaving.
Then on that day, I’d go to the property after he has left and do an exit walk through where you assess the condition of the property to see if there is any tenant caused damage or issues.
Then since he is refusing to turn in the keys, I’d change the locks. I suggest you contact an attorney that specializes in landlord tenant law in your area first.
Good luck!
Sincerely, Hank Rossi
Each week I answer questions from landlords and property managers across the country in my “Dear Landlord Hank” blog in the digital magazine Rental Housing Journal. https://rentalhousingjournal.com/asklandlordhank/
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