Divorce 

 Can I change the locks?

Many divorce clients ask for advice about whether or not they can change the locks.   If the property is jointly owned, then you cannot change the locks without the other owner's consent. This is because they have a right to enter the property. 

However, if your spouse has moved out of the property, it is reasonable to expect them to give you reasonable notice of their intention to enter, whether it is to see the children or collect some possessions.

Normally, the only time changing the locks can really be justified is where there has either been threats of or actual intimidation or violence in which case it may be possible to get an injunction called an Occupation Order which would have the effect of preventing the other person from accessing the property.

The situation does not change even if the property is registered in your, or their, sole name.

This is because they have a right to occupy the property as well and so if you prevent them from entering they can make an application to the Court for an Order which will allow them to re-enter.

For help and advice... 

Call  Justin Forster on 01732 897971 

email jvf@kaslers.co.uk