Illegal lock outs and utility shut offs
Landlords must use a court eviction process and get a court order signed by a judge to evict a tenant. Landlords cannot legally lock you out or shut off the utilities to try to force you to leave. Learn what you can do if your landlord tries to evict you without a court order and when to get legal help.
1. Illegal self help evictions
Illegal lock out and utility shut offs are sometimes called “self help” evictions.
Landlords must use a specific court eviction process (called an Unlawful Detainer Action) and get an order signed by a judge to evict a tenant.
Under RCW 59.18.290, landlords cannot legally change the locks or otherwise stop a tenant who is living in a rental unit from entering their place without a court order.
Under RCW 59.18.300, landlords cannot intentionally shut off a utility (like water, electricity, or gas) to try to force a tenant to move.
If a landlord locks you out or shuts off your utilities to try force you to move, try to get legal help right away.