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How to deal with harassment from landlords or agents

If you think you are being harassed by your landlord you can contact us for advice. Harassment could include things like:

What counts as harassment

Harassment includes anything that disturbs your peace at home.

The Protection from Eviction Act 1977 defines harassment.

This law covers tenants, property guardians, and renters with licence agreements.

Lodgers and subtenants who live with a resident landlord have less rights.

Harassment is a criminal offence

It's a crime if a landlord or agent knows or thinks their actions will make you:

  • give up your tenancy rights
  • leave the property before you have to by law
  • It can count as harassment if someone else acts on behalf of the landlord.

Some examples of harassment include

  • Behaviour that could count as harassment includes:
  • threatening to change the locks
  • opening or withholding your post
  • entering your home without permission
  • removing or interfering with your belongings
  • violent or intimidating language or behaviour
  • pressure to move out before your tenancy ends
  • cutting off gas, water or electricity more than once
  • demands for money that you do not owe or cannot pay

Harassment if you owe rent

Your landlord must not pressure or threaten you because you owe rent. They shouldn't come to your home demanding money.

It is reasonable for your landlord or agent to contact you about:

  • missed payments
  • rising rent arrears

If you have money problems, act quickly. Talk to us, your landlord, or mortgage provider and explain. Get advice from Citizens Advice or a debt advisor. See below for contact details.

The earlier you contact us, the better the chance we have of helping you.

Already locked out?

Landlords need a court order to evict tenants and only court bailiffs can carry out an eviction. It is illegal eviction if your landlord throws you out themselves.

Information about evictions

We will prioritise anyone who is homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness.

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, you should tell us. This will give you access to the support and advice you need.

Where to get help