diff --git a/matrix/server.py b/matrix/server.py
index 23589f3..181136a 100644
--- a/matrix/server.py
+++ b/matrix/server.py
@@ -756,6 +756,8 @@ class MatrixServer(object):
         self.send_or_queue(request)
 
     def get_joined_members(self, room_id):
+        if not self.connected:
+            return
         if room_id in self.member_request_list:
             return