When can I change the locks on a home I purchased?

Get Legal Help Today

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

When can I change the locks on a home I purchased?

I purchased a mobile home last week. The previous owners stated that they would be out several days ago. However, they are still there. I have advised them twice this week they need to go by tomorrow at the very latest. Do I need to go through the eviction process through magistrate court or can i just change the lock?

Asked on February 16, 2012 under Real Estate Law, West Virginia

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

No, you can't simply change the locks, unfortunately. If they are not and have never been tenants of yours (for example: you did not agree to rent to them for a time following your purchase of the home), I believe that the proper action to bring is what's called an action for ejectment--it is similar, but not identical to, an eviction action (which is something brought by a landlord against tenants). You should retain an attorney to help you; the lawyer can discuss the facts in detail with you and determine the best way to get the former owners out.


IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.

Get Legal Help Today

Find the right lawyer for your legal issue.

secured lock Secured with SHA-256 Encryption