Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

housesitter refuses to leave and changes locks

I am relocated out of the country and have a housesitter watching my property, residing there in exchange for no rent. I recently asked him to leave because some of my circumstances have changed and I objected to some of the changes he made to my property without my consent. He has refused to leave. When my girlfriend went by the property to drop off some things in the garage she discovered he had changed the locks, again without my consent or my knowledge.

Can/should I call the police and file a report? I am still in Japan and furious. How can I make him leave? What action am I justified in taking? In my eyes he has stolen my house!! He has not contributed financially at any time during the last 7 months he's lived there. I would like my girlfriend to take over the housesitting and dog watching. I want to end the arrangement I have made with this man. He has taken my house hostage.


Asked on 9/17/00, 5:39 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: housesitter refuses to leave and changes locks

You will have to proceed with an eviction [unlawful detainer action]. This process requires that the law governing this action be followed precisely. Hiring an attorney who does evictions is the surest way of getting this person out of your home.

Your girlfriend could find an attorney for you and be your local agent for the eviction.

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Answered on 10/25/00, 2:02 pm


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