Note: several of the protections below come from the Model Tenancy Act, 2021 — a model law circulated to states rather than automatically binding nationwide. Check whether your state has adopted MTA-based rules; general protections against illegal lockouts and utility disconnection (through police complaints and civil remedies) apply regardless, but specifics like the deposit cap depend on your state's actual tenancy legislation.
What a landlord cannot do
- Disconnect electricity or water to pressure you out
- Remove doors or windows, or change locks to force you out
- Evict you without a written notice followed by a Rent Authority or court order
You're also entitled to a signed rent receipt for every payment, and — as covered separately — a security deposit capped at 2 months' rent for residential tenancies under the Model Tenancy Act framework, refundable when you vacate minus legitimate agreed deductions.
Step 1: Document the violation immediately
If power or water has been cut, locks changed, or you've been threatened with eviction — photograph and video everything right now with the date and time visible. Send the landlord a WhatsApp message describing exactly what happened; this creates a timestamped written record and is admissible evidence.
Step 2: Send a written notice
Tell the landlord clearly, in writing: that cutting utilities or changing locks without a court order is illegal, and that you're demanding restoration of services within 24 hours — failing which you'll file a police complaint and approach the Rent Authority. Send this by WhatsApp and email.
Step 3: File a police complaint if locked out
If you've been physically locked out or had utilities cut, visit the nearest police station. Illegally locking a tenant out without a court order is a cognizable offence, and police must act on your complaint — get an NCR or FIR in writing.
Step 4: Approach the Rent Authority
For eviction disputes or a withheld security deposit, file an application before the Rent Authority set up under your state's Model Tenancy Act framework — only the Rent Authority (or a civil court) can legally order your eviction.
Documents you'll need
- Your rental or lease agreement, signed copy
- Rent receipts for recent months
- Photos or video of the lockout, disconnection, or damage
- WhatsApp, SMS, or email communication with the landlord
- Security deposit receipt or bank transfer proof