Can my landlord lock me out or shut off utilities to force me to leave?

What the Law Says

California law strictly forbids landlords from using 'self-help' eviction tactics — including changing locks, removing doors or windows, shutting off utilities, or removing a tenant’s belongings — to force someone out without a court order.

These actions violate the California Civil Code and are considered unlawful detainer precursors — meaning they’re not just unfair, they’re illegal even if the tenant is behind on rent or overstaying their lease.

The law treats utility shutoffs and lockouts as intentional interference with a tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment of the rental unit. Landlords must go through formal court proceedings (an 'unlawful detainer' lawsuit) to legally remove a tenant.

If a landlord violates these rules, the tenant may sue for actual damages, statutory penalties, and attorney’s fees — and in some cases, recover possession of the unit.

Statutory Text

A landlord shall not, without lawful cause, physically exclude or attempt to physically exclude a tenant from the tenant’s dwelling unit by changing the locks, installing new locks, or otherwise altering the locks.

— Civil Code § 789.3 — Unlawful Lockouts

Statutory Text

A landlord shall not willfully interrupt or cause the interruption of any utility service — including gas, electricity, water, or heat — furnished to a tenant’s dwelling unit.

— Civil Code § 789.3 — Utility Interruption

Statutory Text

Any landlord who violates this section is liable to the tenant for actual damages, a civil penalty of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) per day for each day in which the violation continues, and attorney’s fees.

— Civil Code § 789.3(e)

What to Do

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