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Lock changes for California tenants facing abuse or violence
Source: California Locksmith Help (californialocksmithhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 3, 2026.
When the person accused of abuse or violence does not live in the same unit, the landlord must change the locks at the landlord's expense within 24 hours of the tenant's written request with documentation, and give the tenant a key (Civil Code 1941.5). (source: California Legislature)
- Documentation can be a restraining or protective order, a police report, a statement from a qualified third party, or other documentation such as a signed statement from the tenant.
- If the landlord does not act within 24 hours, the tenant may change the locks and the landlord must pay the tenant back within 21 days.
- A tenant who changes the locks must use locks of similar or better quality, tell the landlord within 24 hours, and give the landlord a key.
(source: California Legislature)
This version of the law took effect January 1, 2025 (SB 1051). (source: California Legislature)
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Sources
- California Legislature (California Legislative Information): Civil Code 1941.5 (lock changes for tenants who are victims of abuse or violence) (checked November 3, 2026)
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