Lock change request to my landlord

Lock change request to my landlord

Date: ____________________

To: ____________________ (landlord or property manager)

My name: ____________________ My address and unit: ____________________

I am asking you to change the locks to my unit under California Civil Code section 1941.5. The person who committed abuse or violence against me or a member of my household does not live in my unit.

I have attached (check one):

• A restraining order, emergency protective order or protective order
• A police report
• A statement from a qualified third party
• Other proof: ____________________

The law asks that the locks be changed within 24 hours of receiving this request and documentation, and that I be given a key to the new locks.

Please contact me safely at: ____________________

Signature: ____________________

Keep a record

• Date and time I gave this to the landlord: ____________________
• How I gave it (in person, email, mail): ____________________
• If locks are not changed in 24 hours, I may change them myself with locks as good or better, tell the landlord within 24 hours, and give them a key. The landlord must pay me back within 21 days.

From Survivor Safety Complete Guide. Facts checked October 21, 2026. Free information, not legal or medical advice.