§5.06 “Self-Help” Termination Prohibited

A landlord is prohibited from terminating or attempting to terminate a tenancy by:

• Interrupting any utility service (i.e., water, heat, light, electricity, gas, telephone, elevator, or refrigeration) [CC §789.3(a)];
• Changing the locks to prevent the tenant from gaining access to the unit [CC §789.3(b)(1)];
• Removing the outside doors or windows of the rental unit [CC §789.3(b)(2)]; or
• Removing the tenant’s personal belongings from the rental unit without written permission [CC §789.3(b)(3)].

If you find a landlord has violated this prohibition, he or she is liable to the tenant for actual damages, statutory damages, and attorney fees. [See CC §789.3(c)–(d).]

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