Can I get rid of my ex-partner’s belongings?

It is important to remember that your ex-partner is still the legal owner of their belongings even though you are no longer together. Accordingly, unless there is a court order allowing you to dispose of the items, you should follow these steps:

Send a written request to your ex, providing them with a detailed inventory of the items you wish them to collect, and ask them to collect them within a specific period of time, typically at least 28 to 35 days.  It is a good idea to include photographs of any valuable items.

Ensure none of the items are damaged or destroyed pending collection.

If your ex-partner fails to respond or collect their items, you can assume they have been abandoned. However, it’s best to wait an additional few months before selling or discarding the belongings.

If you sell the items after your ex abandons them, the proceeds belong to your ex-partner, not you. Keep records of any sale and offer them the proceeds less any selling costs you incur.