Dispute with workman - trespassing and refusing to hand back door key

[mcfcok]

Hello - We are currently in the middle of a dispute with someone who carried out some work around the house, due to damage and incomplete work, we are asking them to reduce the bill accordingly as we are having to replace some parts and fix some outstanding issues due to the job not being completely satisfactory.

I have now had the workman on my doorstep demanding the full amount, shouting 'give me the money. over and over and they also have my front door key, after several requests they have refused to hand back the key.

As I understand it it is illegal to to keep someone's key and refuse to give it back, can I log this incident with the police?

Also, if I say they are not welcome on the property again, does that constitute trespassing if the do return?

Thanks is advance ....

[echat11]

Hi MCFCOK

Absolutely, report it to the police as the key doesn't belong to them.
Yes it would be 'trespass' as they haven't been invited onto the 'premises'.
If they don't hand it back or you can't get it back, get the locks changed.

Also contact CAB, they can pass the complaint to Trading Standards regards
the work which is covered by Consumer Rights Act 2015.