There are many reasons you might want to kick someone out of your home. You might have had a bad breakup, or you decided that things just weren't working out with a roommate or a tenant. Unfortunately, removing someone from your house can sometimes be a difficult prospect. Here are for tips to help you get rid of an unwanted roommate.
1. Make sure it's legal.
You can't just kick someone out of your house on a whim. Depending on how long they have lived there, they may be considered a legal tenant even if their name isn't on the lease. According to Law Help, a person can be considered a tenant if they pay rent and have lived in your house for a certain amount of time. Tenancy laws can vary by state, so make sure to find out which laws apply where you live. If you're in doubt, consult a lawyer or your local police department to find out more information.
2. Ask for their keys.
When you ask someone to move out of your home, it may be an emotionally fraught conversation. Although it can be difficult, don't lose sight of the bigger picture. Remember to ask for their keys when they move out. Although it's possible that they may have made copies, it's still best to get their keys. If you're afraid this person may react badly, you may want to meet them in a public place.
3. Call a locksmith.
If your former roommate refuses to return their keys or you suspect they have made copies, it's time to call a locksmith. A locksmith can change the locks on your home, ensuring that your old roommate will no longer have access to your house. Many locksmith services can arrive to change your locks on short notice if it's an emergency. It may be a hassle to have to get new keys, but it's worth the peace of mind of knowing you won't have any uninvited visitors.
4. Don't be afraid to get the police involved.
Hopefully, you won't have to involve the police. However, if your old roommate harasses you or tries to gain access to your house even after you've changed the locks, it may be time to get the authorities involved. Call the non-emergency line to file a police report if you experience any unwanted trespassing on your property.
Having to get someone out of your house can be tough, but you can get through it. These four tips will help you get an unwanted roommate out of your house as safely and quickly as possible.
