houseguest w/ no legal contracts refuses to leave, i want him out, what do I do??

[sreg]

**************.I am a retired elder gemtleman that owns my own home.....I currently have someone living in my home that refuses to leave...he has been here over 3 years with no written contract, lease or legal rental agreement,..he came to me as a friend in need of a tempeorary place to stay...I have asked on several occasions for him to leave and vacate the premesis and he refuses.. he does not and will not hold a job...refusues to contribute to the household in any way....he lies and steals from me....i have been supporting him too long and i financially can not do it anymore, im on a fixed income...i have another housemate that i care for and oversee his health.....we are both concerned for our safety...and i fear that everything ive worked for all my life is at stake......what are my rights as a home owner and what steps can i take to get him out immediately? if i am forced to give him any notice, he will rob me blind....please, and advice or guidence is greatly appreciated....Thank You, Greek n need

I'm afraid there is no other way to remove this person from your house. The law says that he has occupant's rights since he has lived there this long. You must give him a written notice to vacate the house. Many places require a 30 day notice, but some states have a longer or shorter time period for this. (Please list your state to find out how long you must give him.) Hand him a written notice stating he must vacate by xx/xx date and return all keys by noon of that day. Keep a copy for yourslef in a secure place (locked in a car, in a safety deposit box, with a trusted friend.) If he fails to leave, you must file for eviction of him. I suggest you lock up your valuables and photograph the entire house for "before" photos in case he does steal anything (you will have photos). Wish there was an easier way. Sorry.

I had to do the same with an old college friend if you can believe that !