changed locks, what can I do?

[josie33]

Is is illegal if my ex husband changes the locks on our jointly owned house? I moved myself and daughter out due to violence. And when recently trying to get my personal possessions (we are argueing over the rest through court) he opened the door and admitted that he had changed them and that he doesn't have to inform me or supply me with a key. What can I do? Do i break in? Am I within my rights to do this to get my things?

[Scarlett]

I would ask the Police about this one. Not only are you making them aware of your situation, but they will log your question, and so if he is abusive in the future, they will know that you have already mentioned it.

[joanne713]

definitely do what Scarlett has said, they will probably go with you to get your stuff.

[naz_nomad]

If you own the property, you are legally entitled to break a window to gain access, providing that you injure no-one, and you secure the property afterwards ...

[dot.hawkes]

yes, this cropped up with the mccartney mess, you have the right to access to the marital home

[RATTER15]

Sorry Ward~Minter, gona cross you on this one, lets keep it simple, yes you have every right to enter the house, you own half of it, no one will prosecute you, been there, done it, got my T shirt under directions from solicitor!

[PhilBy]

Ex husband! ......Just how long ago did you move out?

You say you have moved yourself out & I fully understand your reason for doing so but unless you can reach an amicable arrangement I think you will need to seek legal advice.

Ward~Minter am I right in thinking that either the gas or electric utillites are legally allowed forcable entry providing they are accompained by a Police Officer?

[PhilBy]

Speaking as a landlord I can assure you that Ward~Minter is correct!

[naz_nomad]

Ratter ... I got one of those snazzy T-shirts too...we must have the same solicitor ...

[PhilBy]

Whenever desired but, with at least 24 hours' notice, the landlord may visit at his or her discretion. Where repairs are necessary, the landlord has a right to �reasonable access�. What �reasonable access� means depends on why they need to gain access. For example, in an emergency, the landlord is entitled to immediate access to carry out work, but he or she does not have a right to enter without notice in any other circumstances, unless a court order has been obtained.

[Pippa68]

M P had this problem when his ex wife moved out of their flat. She liked to use it as a knocking shop during the day & stole his food (and gas/electric).

After consulting his solicitor he changed the locks, due to the fact that his ex wife had no reason to be there other than to fleece him & abuse the property. She was able to visit and remove her possessions after making an appointment, and someone else had to be there to witness the removal.