Penalties for illegal entry

Some states set money penalties for landlords who break entry rules. Some states let you end your lease and move out after you warn your landlord. If an entry makes you feel unsafe, call the police.

If the landlord breaks the entry or lockout rules, put your complaint in writing with a deadline to fix it. For an illegal lockout you can also collect 1 month's rent plus $1,000, plus your actual losses. For other serious privacy violations you can sue for damages or ask a court to end your lease. If you assert your privacy rights, the law blocks payback moves like eviction or rent hikes for 6 months.

If your landlord breaks this rule, you can take them to court. If the court rules in your favor your landlord can owe you your actual losses or 3 months rent, whichever is more. For example, if your rent is $500 per month, three months’ rent is $1,500. You may be awarded either $1,500 or the amount of your actual losses, whichever is more. Your landlord must also pay your court costs and lawyer fees.