Changing Locks Legally as a Renter in Wales

If you rent a home in Wales, you may have questions about your right to change locks—for example, when faced with safety issues or privacy concerns. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under Welsh law helps you make informed decisions while respecting your contract with your landlord. This guide explains when renters can change locks, the key legal requirements, and what to do if you feel unsafe.

Your Right to Security in Your Welsh Rental

Renters in Wales have a legal right to feel safe in their own home. Landlords are responsible for maintaining proper security, such as secure external doors and locks. However, your right to make changes (like changing locks) is limited by the terms of your written tenancy agreement and current renting laws.

Standard Occupation Contracts Explained

Since December 2022, most private renters in Wales will have a 'standard occupation contract' under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016¹. This replaces older tenancy types and sets out your key rights and duties, including rules on security and your landlord's right of access.

Can You Change the Locks Without Landlord Permission?

Normally, you cannot change the locks on your rental property without your landlord’s consent. This is because:

• Your occupation contract probably contains a clause about 'making alterations'—including changing locks or security devices.
• If you change the locks without agreement, you may be breaching your contract and risk eviction.

What If Your Landlord Refuses?

If your landlord won't allow a lock change but you have urgent safety concerns, you can:

• Contact your local council’s housing team for support: find your council via Find your local council
• Contact specialist organisations for domestic abuse or harassment support (see resources below)
• If you do change the locks in an emergency, keep the old lock and provide your landlord with a set of keys as soon as possible

Landlord Entry and Surveillance in Wales

Landlords must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your home for inspections, repairs, or viewings—except in emergencies.¹ They cannot come in unannounced or change the locks themselves to exclude you. Any surveillance, such as installing security cameras inside your home, is not allowed without your explicit permission.

What Official Forms or Actions Apply?

• Notice of Seeking Possession (RHW20): If a landlord believes you've breached the contract by changing locks without consent, they may use form RHW20 – Notice seeking possession: periodic standard contracts. This formal notice starts an eviction process. Always seek advice before responding.
• Harassment or Illegal Eviction Complaints: If your landlord tries to evict you illegally (like changing locks on you), you can report them to your local council using their antisocial behaviour or housing complaints process: see eviction guidance for Wales.

If you need legal advice or want to resolve a dispute regarding your right to privacy or locks, you can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales, which handles renting disputes across Wales.

What Laws Cover Changing Locks for Renters in Wales?

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 is the primary law. It covers:

• Your right to "quiet enjoyment"—the ability to live in your rented home undisturbed
• Landlords’ duties to provide security and not interfere with your occupation
• The circumstances where landlords can enter or request changes

It's a criminal offence for landlords to lock you out or interfere with your use of the property without a court order.

What Should You Do If You Need to Change the Locks?

• Check your contract for mentions of "alterations" or "locks"
• Request permission from your landlord in writing and explain your reasons (such as a lost key or changed safety circumstances)
• If denied, seek support from your local council or a legal advice service
• Always provide the landlord with a spare key if you do change the locks

Taking these steps can help prevent disputes and protect your rights as a renter.

FAQs About Locks and Privacy in Welsh Rentals

1. Can I change locks in my rental without telling my landlord?
   Generally, you need your landlord’s permission. Changing locks without consent may breach your contract. In emergencies (after a burglary or if your safety is at risk), act promptly but inform your landlord as soon as possible and provide them a key.
2. Is my landlord allowed to change the locks without my permission?
   No, your landlord cannot change locks or prevent you from entering the property without a court order. Doing so is illegal and considered an unlawful eviction in Wales.
3. What should I do if I feel unsafe and need to change locks urgently?
   Prioritise your safety. Change locks if you must, keep the old lock, and let your landlord know as soon as possible. Seek help from your council or a legal advice agency if there's a risk of losing your home.
4. What form does my landlord use if they want to evict me over a lock change?
   They would use RHW20 – Notice seeking possession: periodic standard contracts. Respond promptly and get legal advice.
5. Who do I contact if my landlord tries to illegally evict me or change the locks?
   Contact your local council immediately, report the incident, and seek advice from the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Key Takeaways

• Always get your landlord’s permission before changing the locks, unless there is an urgent safety concern.
• Your landlord must not change the locks or enter without proper notice and may not install surveillance in your home.
• Support and legal options are available if you face disputes over locks, safety, or privacy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• UK Government: Housing Guidance
• Welsh Government: Help with Housing
• Shelter Cymru: Free Housing Advice
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Resolves tenancy and housing disputes
• Find Your Local Council

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1. See Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
2. See Residential Property Tribunal Wales
3. For forms, visit Renting Homes: Model Occupation Contracts

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