removing ex's belongings

[cazdee]

My daughters boyfriend has moved out of her home, she has asked him on several occasions to remove his things and return her key, via email and text (he will not talk to her direct). He has ignored all her communications. What are her legal obligations can she just bin all his clothes and cds etc or does she have to give him a time limit to remove everything. Also how does she stand in getting her key returned?
Many thanks all comments will be appreciated.

[mangetoute]

e-mail him txt him tell him he has a set time to pick every thing up ,if not,it all goes to charity,then see how quickly he moves him self,locks,change them, even if he gives the key back can you be sure he's not made a copy,be safe!be sure! not sorry!!!

[shero101]

Good advice from mangetoute. Also suggest that she keeps a record of the emails and texts sent and any other actions taken regarding this so if there is any dispute in the future she will have the details to proove she acted appropriately.

[ChuffingHell]

Don't know how much stuff he has but couldn't she put it all in a box and take it round to where he's now staying or to his parents, or something?

With regard to the key, if she thinks he's the kinda guy who would think about coming back to the house, getting to key back from him isn't necessarily enough - what stops him going to get a copy made before he gives the original back? Perhaps getting the locks changed would be safer in this instance.

[Whickerman]

I seem to remember that you need to give him notice - do it in writing, registered post - that you will dispose of his belongings on a certain date - give about two weeks. Then immediately change your locks - costs only a few quid. Then give him the chance to arrange to collect - make sure you're there, with a friend if necessary. If he doesn't collect, then you should bin the stuff, or better still, drop it all off outside his house

[claireyfairy]

first change the locks then text the guy, tell him his stuff is getting put out with the bin, the night before bin collection so if he doesn't come to claim it from the pavement then obviously they will take it away.

[Didwot]

Yes Whickerman, that is what it says in Section 15 of the Torts, Interference with Goods Act, although ordinary posst will do, as may an e mail. If the goods are then not collected within the reasonable time allowed you can dispose of them. If they have value do not throw them away, but well them! He will be entitled to the csh if he asks for it.