Harassment and Illegal Eviction

The law protects tenants against harassment and illegal eviction. This page describes some of the types of harassment. It explains what tenants can do if they are being harassed or threatened with illegal eviction.

What can I do if my landlord wants me to leave

Most tenants are entitled to a written notice telling them to leave a property. This is even if your landlord did not give you a written agreement to live there in the first place. The only exception to this is where you are sharing the living accommodation. For example, a kitchen or bathroom with your landlord. In this case, the landlord only must verbally ask you to leave.

The amount of time given in the notice depends on the type of tenancy you have. Or it is on grounds on which your landlord is seeking possession. You are not required to leave until the notice runs out, and even then, may not be evicted without the order of the court.

If your landlord makes you leave your home without following the proper legal process, it is an illegal eviction. This is a serious criminal offence.

Shelter can help you check whether a landlord can evict you. You can find more information on GOV.UK.