What should I do if someone is living in my house that I have no agreement with and I can’t access my property?
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What should I do if someone is living in my house that I have no agreement with and I can’t access my property?
I bought a manufactured home over 1 1/2 years ago. I moved out 10 months alter to help my mom. I
never rented it out or sold it to anyone. When I went to return back to living in my home last month, I found someone living in it. The locks have been changed and I can’t access my home or live in it. I don’t know who these people are and they won’t leave.
Asked on October 1, 2016 under Real Estate Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
First, if you havne't already, contact the police and tell them someone broke into your house and is squatting there--they may help. If they do not, bring an action "for ejectment" in county court: ejectment is eviction for non-tenants (i.e. for people not paying rent or living there pursuant to a lease), and would be how your remove this person. An ejectment action is somewhat more procedurally complex than than the standard or usual eviction action: you are recommended to retain an attorney to help you. You may wish at the same time to also sue this person for your legal fees and for any damage they have done.
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