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Cohabitation
Can I change the locks and evict my girlfriend without notice?

Can I change the locks and evict my girlfriend without notice?

Full question:

My girlfriend and I have lived together for about 7 years . I bought a house about 3 years ago that I own. She is out of town and I don't want her to come back can I legally change the locks and evict her? She does not pay rent.

Category: Cohabitation
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Georgia

Answer:

A tenant under an oral agreement is usually considered a tenant-at-will. In this case, as the landlord, you must provide sixty days' written notice to terminate the tenancy. According to Georgia law, if no specific time is mentioned for ending the tenancy, it is treated as a tenancy at will (Ga. Code § 44-7-6). Therefore, you cannot simply change the locks or evict her without following the proper legal process.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

How long does someone have to stay in your house to be considered living there?

In general, there is no specific time frame that applies universally. However, if someone has been living in your home for a significant period, like several weeks or months, they may be considered a tenant, especially if they have established a pattern of residence. In many states, this could lead to tenant rights, making it important to understand local laws regarding tenancy.

Can a girlfriend claim half the house?

Whether a girlfriend can claim half of the house depends on various factors, including how the property was acquired and whether there was any agreement between the parties. If the house is solely in your name and there is no cohabitation agreement or evidence of joint ownership, she may not have a legal claim to half. However, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional for specific guidance.

Can your girlfriend take half your house?

Your girlfriend may not be able to take half of your house if it is solely in your name and there are no legal agreements indicating shared ownership. However, if she has contributed to the mortgage or expenses, or if there is a cohabitation agreement, she might have a claim. Legal advice is recommended to understand the specifics of your situation.

Can I evict my girlfriend from my house?

Evicting your girlfriend from your house is not straightforward, especially if she has been living there for an extended period. Even without a formal lease, she may have tenant rights. Generally, you must provide proper notice, typically sixty days in Georgia, before taking eviction action. It’s best to consult with an attorney to navigate the eviction process legally.

How to get an ex out of your house legally?

To legally get an ex out of your house, you typically need to provide written notice, depending on your state's laws regarding tenancy. In Georgia, for example, you must give at least sixty days' notice if they are considered a tenant-at-will. If they refuse to leave, you may need to initiate formal eviction proceedings. Legal counsel can help ensure you follow the correct process.

Does my girlfriend have any right to my house?

Whether your girlfriend has rights to your house depends on various factors, including how the property is titled and any agreements made between you. If the house is solely in your name and there are no legal claims or contributions from her, she may not have rights. However, if she has lived there for a long time, she might have some legal protections. Consulting an attorney is advisable for clarity.