Can I Lock Out a Co-Tenant in Virginia for Stealing?
Full Question:
What happens if I lockout/remove belongings of an 'occupant' in my home who is stealing? I am disabled and cannot get to court to legally evict..gave her notice 10 days ago, now she changed lock on her bedroom door. I live in VA, she is on lease as occupant, and rental company will not get involved as rent is prepaid through 10-31-10.
06/07/2010 |
Category: Landlord Ten... ยป Residential ... |
State: Virginia |
#22330
Answer:
No, generally only a landlord has the right to dispose of abandoned property of a tenant after proper procedures for notice, etc. A tenant may only be locked out/evicted through the court process. Self-help measures are not allowed and may lead to charges such as theft, trespass to property, etc. If a tenant's property is improperly disposed of, the replacement costs and loss of use of the property may be claimed as damages.
