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Question


Elisha

does landlord have rights 2 change locks wit no notice on commercial property?

my landlord came into shop on a tuesday evening during business hrs to discuss rent as we owe 2 weeks rent,i explained that it was not a good time as ppl were sitting at a table.he left without saying anymore and next morning i went to restaurant in order to call him and discuss the matter as he was saying 5 weeks and i was saying 2 weeks.anyway make a long story short,he had come during the night and changed the locks and is refusing to open.does he have the right to do this?and if not what can i do now as we are losing business and valued customers?

2 months ago - 8 answers

Best Answer

Chosen by Asker

No, he does not have the right to do this. As long as you are still the legal tenant he has to allow you access. If he wants to begin eviction proceedings for nonpayment of rent there are specific legal steps he has to take, and the first one is notifying you of his intention in writing.

by 65% water

2 months ago

Asker's Rating: 

Other Answers

NO. The inhabitant has to be informed of this change.

by Mitch J- 2 months ago

yeah you owe him money he can evict you whenether he likes as long as he gives you notice and he can go inside the flat also, so don't find it wierd when you won't pay your rent.

by Antonio- 2 months ago

get a lawyer and claim for lost earnings. in the meantime, try and sort it out amongst yourselves, prove what you've paid, pay what you owe and make him give you keys. if not go legal.

by juology- 2 months ago

I am not sure about a business, but for a residence, it is illegal for a landlord to change the locks for non-payment in the U.S. Gather your receipts where you paid the rent for the other 3 weeks. There should be someone at your city hall or even the court clerks office that can tell you what your rights are.

by SouthernRose- 2 months ago

With any property you are required to be given notice. He can not just lock you out. Have you been getting receipts for payment if so then you have proof on 2 weeks, if not dont ever do business with anyone who doesn't give receipts. You need to report him to the town you live in. You could sue him if it comes down to it. If you loose money, customers, cause employees to loose paychecks etc. You also might want to contact your local police. Without going to the courts he can not even evict you from a business so I would do alot of calling around if I was you.

by peeples1983- 2 months ago

call the police and get a lock smith right away to change the locks then get a lawyer

by goz1111- 2 months ago

Commercial tenancies are not covered by most state's landlord/tenant laws. They are governed by contract law. You need to refer to your lease and contract law or consult with an attorney that specializes in commercial real estate/contract law.

by Trouble- 2 months ago