New Jersey Lockouts and utility shutoffs

Can a landlord change the locks or shut off utilities in New Jersey?

Banned. Self-help evictions are illegal in New Jersey: a landlord may not padlock, change locks, disconnect utilities or otherwise block entry while the tenant lives there. Only a court officer can remove a tenant, under a warrant for removal.

Verified Source: N.J.S.A. 2A:39-1 (NJ DCA Truth in Renting) · last checked 2026-10-15