Self-Help Eviction
An illegal method of removing a tenant from a rental property without going through the court process. Includes changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing the tenant's belongings.
A self-help eviction is when a landlord tries to force a tenant out without going through the legal eviction process. In Minnesota, this is illegal. Common forms of self-help eviction include changing the locks, shutting off utilities (heat, water, electricity), removing the tenant’s personal belongings, or physically preventing the tenant from entering the property.
Under Minn. Stat. section 504B.375, only a court can order a tenant removed from a rental property. Even if a tenant has not paid rent or has violated the lease, the landlord must file a formal eviction lawsuit (unlawful detainer action) and get a court order before taking action.
Why it matters: If your landlord locks you out, shuts off your utilities, or removes your belongings without a court order, they are breaking the law. You can call the police, and you may be able to sue your landlord for damages.
Example: A tenant is two months behind on rent. Instead of filing an eviction lawsuit, the landlord changes the locks while the tenant is at work. This is an illegal self-help eviction. The tenant calls the police, who instruct the landlord to restore access immediately. The tenant may also sue the landlord for damages.
Landlord-tenant disputes, illegal lockouts, utility shutoffs by landlord