After the door
The story does not end when the lock turns.
If the lockout was illegal, demand restoration and file immediately. If there is a Board order, read the exact date and any conditions. Some orders can be set aside or reviewed when you missed the hearing for a good reason.
- Photograph the door, the new lock, and any pile of belongings.
- Call police for an illegal lockout — and still call a clinic. Police sometimes treat it as “civil.” You want a paper event number either way.
- File an urgent tenant application. Ask for re-entry and compensation.
- If a lawful order is in force, use 211 and the emergency path the same day. Apply for homelessness prevention and RGI from the first shelter night.
- Retrieve property. Landlords have duties around abandoned goods — they cannot simply trash everything on day one.