Receiving mail that isn't addressed to you is a common occurrence, but opening it could lead to a fine or even imprisonment. Under the Postal Service Act 2000, intentionally opening a postal packet that you know or suspect has been incorrectly delivered is a criminal offence.
What the Law Says
The Postal Service Act 2000 states: "A person commits an offence if, without reasonable excuse, he intentionally delays or opens a postal packet in the course of its transmission by post, or intentionally opens a mail-bag." It further clarifies that an offence is committed if someone, intending to act to a person's detriment and without reasonable excuse, opens a postal packet they know or reasonably suspect has been incorrectly delivered to them.
Penalties for Offences
Violating this law can result in severe penalties. On summary conviction, an offender may face a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale (currently up to £5,000) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both. This applies whether the mail is for a former partner, relative, or a complete stranger.
Can You Open Your Partner's Mail?
The law applies even to spouses or partners. Opening your partner's post without permission is illegal, especially if they no longer reside at your address. The act requires explicit consent to open mail addressed to someone else, regardless of your relationship.
What to Do If You Receive Someone Else's Mail
Royal Mail advises that if you receive post with your address but a different name, you should cross through the address and write 'Not known at this address' or 'No longer lives here' on the item, then return it to a postbox. Royal Mail will try to return it to the sender. If the mail has neither your name nor address, simply drop it in a postbox without adding postage; Royal Mail will handle redelivery to the correct address.
According to Royal Mail: "We'll try to return it to the sender so they can update their records." For misdelivered items, they apologise for the mistake and inconvenience, stating: "Please drop the mail in a postbox when you can. There's no need to add postage. We'll handle it from there and deliver it to the correct address."
Key Takeaway
Always check the recipient before opening any post. If it's not for you, follow Royal Mail's guidance to avoid legal consequences. Ignorance of the law is not a defence, and even a momentary lapse could result in a criminal record.
