10/16/2026
Changing the locks on a tenant is a quick path to a very expensive legal headache.
Many landlords mistakenly believe they can take matters into their own hands when rent isn’t paid, but real estate attorney Sam J. Saad III is setting the record straight: self-help eviction tactics—like removing doors, windows, or changing locks—are major red flags that open the door to punitive damages and serious liability.
When a tenant defaults, the legal process of eviction is the only safe route to protect property rights and avoid costly litigation. Understanding the boundaries of the law isn't optional for those managing residential leases.