Help for ex-partner who does not want to leave

Questioner

What to do if ex-partner does not want to leave the home? The house and mortgage are in my name only, and there is no marriage, registered partnership or cohabitation contract. However, the ex-partner is registered at the address with the municipality. What steps should be taken to get the ex-partner out of the house in a proper way? At least I assume that simply changing the locks is not an option. Talking unfortunately does not help, but after more than four months of patience I now just want to get on with my life...

Lawyer

Dear questioner, The best thing to do is to send a registered letter and indicate that the property is being occupied without right, with a summons to vacate the property within a reasonable number of days. My advice is to have this done by a lawyer, so that the correct legal grounds are stated, etc. Moreover, our experience shows that such a letter has more effect than if you write it yourself. Yours sincerely, mr. monique

Questioner

Dear Mrs. Doomernik, Thank you for your response. Now I don't want to get ahead of myself, but I actually fear that a (registered) letter will not have an immediate effect. Although it is undoubtedly a necessary or mandatory first step. Could you perhaps explain what further steps I should prepare myself for? Thanks and greetings! (sorry, I prefer to remain anonymous given the precarious situation...)

Lawyer

If such a letter does not work, you will either have to change the locks (with a number of possible undesirable consequences) or take legal action. But a good letter can be very convincing; among other things, it clearly indicates to the other party that this is at his expense and risk and that the costs will be at his expense.