Cannot access my files after a new installation

[Luis Cunha]

I've reinstalled Windows XP on a new disk using the same
username and password.
With both the old and new disk on the computer when I
booted the new installation I could access all files on
the older disk except for files under "Documents and
Settings" which includes my old "My Documents".
The files aren't there (or I just can't see them).
I've tried to boot from the old disk again but the same
happens, the folders are empty.
Are the files really gone, or are the simply protected
from view?
If the are stil there, is there any way to access the?
Any help would be appreciated, since I really need to
recover some important files.
Thanks.

 

[Doug Knox MS-MVP]

See Help and Support and search for "take ownership"

HOW TO: Take Ownership of a File or Folder in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/?id=308421

 

[Luis Cunha]

That solved the problem, I have my files back.

Many thanks Doug!