If you come home and your key doesn’t work, you may panic.

But in Texas, the answer to “Can a landlord lock you out?” is not a simple yes or no.

Sometimes it’s legal.
Often it’s illegal.
And the difference matters.

1. Lockout Is Not the Same as Eviction

Many tenants believe a landlord must go to court before changing locks.

That is partly true — but Texas law allows limited lockouts for nonpayment of rent under:

Texas Property Code § 92.0081

A lockout is temporary.
An eviction requires a court order.

A landlord cannot permanently remove you without:

• Notice to Vacate (Tex. Prop. Code § 24.005)
• A filed eviction lawsuit
• A court judgment
• A writ of possession

Changing locks alone does not end your tenancy.

2. When a Lockout May Be Legal

A landlord may change the locks only if:

• You are delinquent in rent, and
• Your lease permits lockouts.

But even then, the landlord must:

• Give proper written notice before changing locks
• State the amount owed
• State the earliest lockout date
• Inform you of your right to obtain a key

Most importantly:

The landlord must give you a new key upon request — even if you do not pay.

See Tex. Prop. Code § 92.0081(c).

If they refuse to provide a key, the lockout becomes unlawful.

3. When Lockouts Are Illegal

A landlord may NOT:

• Lock you out for lease violations other than unpaid rent
• Lock you out without notice
• Remove doors, windows, or property (Tex. Prop. Code § 92.008(a))
• Shut off utilities to force payment
• Use lockout as retaliation (Tex. Prop. Code § 92.331)

Common illegal tactics include:

• “We’re changing the locks because you complained.”
• “Pay everything or you don’t get a key.”
• “You’re out — your stuff is on the curb.”

Those actions may expose the landlord to statutory damages.

4. What Is a Writ of Reentry?

If you are illegally locked out, you can file for a:

Writ of Reentry

This is a fast Justice Court remedy that orders the landlord to restore possession.

It is different from fighting an eviction.

Texas law allows recovery of:

• One month’s rent
• $1,000 statutory penalty
• Actual damages
• Court costs
• Attorney’s fees

(See Tex. Prop. Code § 92.0081(h))

5. What About “Self-Help” Evictions?

Texas strongly disfavors “self-help.”

A landlord cannot:

• Remove your belongings
• Change locks permanently
• Physically remove you
• Threaten force to make you leave

Only a constable executing a writ of possession can lawfully remove a tenant.

Anything else risks civil liability — and possibly criminal exposure.

6. Practical Advice If You’re Locked Out

If it happens:

1. Photograph the door and notice.
2. Request a key immediately.
3. Document the time and response.
4. Review your lease.
5. Consider filing for writ of reentry.

Do not assume the landlord acted lawfully.

Bottom Line

Yes, a landlord can lock you out in Texas — but only in narrow circumstances and only if the statute is followed precisely.

If the rules are not followed, the lockout may be illegal and expensive for the landlord.

Understanding the difference between a temporary lockout and a court-ordered eviction can protect your housing rights.

At David C. Barsalou, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we help clients navigate business, family, tax, estate planning, and real estate matters ranging from document drafting to litigation with clarity and confidence. If you’d like guidance on your situation, schedule a consultation today. Call us at (713) 397-4678, email barsalou.law@gmail.com, or reach us through our Contact Page. We’re here to help you take the next step.