If I have an ex-girlfriend who lives with me but we’ve been broken up and the house is in my name only, is it legal to just put her things in a storage unit and change the locks?

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If I have an ex-girlfriend who lives with me but we’ve been broken up and the house is in my name only, is it legal to just put her things in a storage unit and change the locks?

Asked on November 3, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Michigan

Answers:

B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

If she does not want to leave the house, then you would need to have her evicted because she has been a tenant of the house for a period of time-- not just an overnight guest.  If she leaves voluntarily, then you can change the locks at any time.  If she leaves items behind, it is a good idea to place them in a storage unit so they remain in a safe condition -- so you don't get accused of stealing or destroying items that are not yours. 


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