What can I do to keep a friend from moving back in?
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What can I do to keep a friend from moving back in?
I had a friend, who was iincarcerated for a while. Upon her release, I offered her my apartment to stay for a while. In the meantime, she stayed over 18 months, did not contribute monetarily in any way and stole from me. She violated her parole, so now she is in back in jail. She is to be released in a couple of weeks and is expecting to stay in my apartment again. I want her to stay out. What can I do?
Asked on September 26, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Colorado
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
If she's not on the lease or deed, then just don't let her back in. If there is not a legal relationship, you are not obligated to provide housing-- and based on what you describe, you would be doing so at a risk to yourself. If she is on the lease, talk to the landlord about redoing the lease in your name only. If she is not on the lease, still talk to your landlord, let them know you don't want her entereing your apartment and see if he will let you change the locks at your expense to prevent her reentry. If you own the unit, then change the locks and don't let her in. As an extra precaution, while she is still in jail, send her a letter and let her know that she will not be able to stay with you this time. This may nip everything in the bud.
After changing the locks and telling her she can't stay in writing, if she does try to show up and enter, you can call the cops and press charges for trespassing-- which you should do to avoid any confusion in the future.
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