Amy Britton

Opening post addressed to a previous homeowner without consent can constitute a criminal offence if done with intent to cause detriment and without reasonable excuse, potentially leading to a fine or imprisonment. Mail should instead be marked “return to sender” or “not known at this address” and put back in the postal system. Exceptions may apply where the recipient has consent or legal authority, such as power of attorney, executorship or guardianship.

Royal Mail requires stamps to be placed flat in the top-right corner of the address side of parcels, cards and letters, with the stamp clearly visible and unobstructed. Incorrect placement can delay delivery or cause sorting machines to treat an item as unpaid, potentially requiring the recipient to pay a fee of £1.50 to £7. Unclaimed items may be held for 18 days before being returned or destroyed.