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What to do when things go wrong with renting

As a tenant you have rights that are protected by law. Despite this, it can be difficult to sort out problems with your home, but there is plenty of advice and support available to help you.

Problems with your landlord

If your landlord is trying to evict you without having obtained a Court Order, or they have failed, despite reasonable request/s to carry out necessary repairs, you can contact your local council's tenancy relations officer.

Alternatively you should seek advice either from the organisations listed in the advice link below, or a solicitor.

The law protects people living in residential property against harassment. It does this in two ways:

  • by making harassment and illegal eviction a criminal offence, and
  • by enabling someone who is harassed or illegally evicted to claim damages through the civil court

However, where there is actual physical assault, the tenant should call the police.

The following links will let you enter details of where you live and then take you to your local authority website where you can find out more.

Coping with debt and rent arrears

If you are having problems paying your rent or other bills then visit our section on managing debt.

Problem neighbours

If you are experiencing problems with your neighbours, visit the Directgov section on neighbourhood disputes.

Problems with repairs or poor housing conditions

You can find out more information by reading the Directgov article about housing repair and landlord responsibilities.

Relationship breakdown and domestic violence

If you need to move because of problems at home first contact the housing department of your local council to discuss your rights. If you are a tenant of a housing association then talk to your housing officer about finding a solution. You can also talk through your situation with trained advisers from the advice organisations listed in the article 'Domestic violence - getting help', where you'll also find more information to help you.

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