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My neighbour has a key to my flat. I also have a key to theirs.
I would like my key returned, and will return theirs.
If there’s a refusal, what course of action is appropriate?
I may also ask our building manager to intercede if necessary.
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A calm first step is to ask in writing for an exchange by a specific date, keeping the message polite and practical. If they refuse or don’t respond, you could ask the building manager to help facilitate a conversation, though the manager may not have authority over a private arrangement between neighbours. Flat Chat’s article explains that building managers and strata managers have different roles: “Strata basics – who does what, when and why?”. It’s from 2021, so treat it as background rather than current legal guidance. Strata basics – who does what, when and why? FLAT CHAT
If the key raises a security concern, consider asking a locksmith about changing your lock; check your lease first if you rent. If this becomes a dispute, the appropriate next step depends on your state or territory—where is the building?
I would be interested to know why you want to swap back. That could affect the way you approach this. If you’ve fallen out with the neighbour, that’s one thing. But if you feel the situation has security implications, that’s another matter entirely.
This is not something a building manager would normally do so, unless they are particularly friendly with you, it’s not a road you can easily pursue.
If it were me, I would simply ask if you can have yours back, maybe using the excuse that you need to give them to a family member and you don’t want to have to get another set cut.
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