My landlord is evicting everyone on a 1 week notice, what can I do?

Posted by daynk_me_mes@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 245 comments

I'm a student renting an accomodation in Coventry. My landlord rents out a whole apartment for students. For some reason unveknownst to everyone, he doesn't want to rent out to the student market anymore, and is forcing everyone to move out in under 1 weeks notice, otherwise they will relocate us to some random property they have lying around under the same rent. The rental agreement states that the landlord cannot evict us without at least a 2 months notice and 6 months after the contract has started (my contract has only been live for 1 month so far). What are my options, and what can I do? Desperate for solutions, obviously.

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245 Comments

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N7twitch@reddit

This is an illegal eviction. If the landlord tries to force you out then you need to call 999. Post on r/legaladviceuk to get better advice than you’ll find here, but also contact Shelter.

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ZealousidealGur3549@reddit

101 not 999. It’s illegal but it’s not an emergency.

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epanchin@reddit

Being made homeless is an emergency.

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ZealousidealGur3549@reddit

It is and it isn’t. It’s also not a police matter unless the landlord is acting in a threatening way. It’s a civil matter and would need council involvement.

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konnekting@reddit

I think she’s talking about if the landlord turns up at a certain time and tries to physically remove them. It would never be a matter for 101, but it would be a matter for 999 if they’re feeling physically threatened.

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Dabbles-In-Irony@reddit

That’s wrong, it would be a matter for 101 if it gets to the point that it would warrant being recorded as a crime (unlawful harassment of a occupier) under the Protection from Eviction Act.

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EvaSkeever@reddit

Or battery. It’s not “harassment” if they’re using force, or threatening you with the use of force.

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Dabbles-In-Irony@reddit

We’re clearly talking about different things. u/N7twitch said to call 999 if the landlord tries to force them out. If the landlord does this in an aggressive, violent manner then yes, 999. But if it’s more of an ongoing persistent campaign to remove OP and the others, then calling 101 would be more appropriate. So the comment I was replying to was incorrect as there are circumstances in which it is a matter for 101.

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EvaSkeever@reddit

“Physically remove them” really, really implies use of force

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homelaberator@reddit

The original comment by nztwigvcg is pretty vague. Just says "tries to force you out". This comment chain is useful since it has clarified when 101 and when 999.

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mintysoul@reddit

Admit you are wrong and apologise

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EvaSkeever@reddit

Bruh apologise for what lmao

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Dabbles-In-Irony@reddit

Ahahaha. No.

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konnekting@reddit

As stated, this is talking about the situation where the landlord is at property trying to physically remove them and “kick them to the kerb”. That is not harassment, that is a crime in progress.

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dtwatts@reddit

Interesting. Just this very morning I was advised by LA to call 999, not 101 in the event the landlord turns up and uses any threatening language or behaviour. Advised it falls under the Protection from Eviction 1977 (He’s threatening to send his builders in and rip the place apart and turn the water off from outside). He hasn’t even started court proceedings yet

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SmackHeadNearby33@reddit

You're right when they were taking my doors off I hit 999 perfectly fine response.

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OxfordBlue2@reddit

Disagree. The illegal eviction means that any use of force is at least an assault. Plus, 101 will take ages to answer. This is definitely a 999 matter.

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Burnsy2023@reddit

Crime in progress is 999.

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Alwaysanotherfish@reddit

If the landlord tries to force them out (i.e. is in the process of using force to remove them from the property) then it's definitely a 999-worthy emergency.

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PJParker16@reddit

What's Shelter?

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N7twitch@reddit

It’s a housing charity. They run an emergency helpline for people facing most kinds of legal issues relating to housing.

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donquixotesdick@reddit

He cannot legally make you move. So fuck him.

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midoristorm@reddit

Do not move out. Contact your University (they should have an advice service), Shelter and Acorn.

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C_beside_the_seaside@reddit

Living Rent in Scotland, Acorn are England & Wales. Not sure about NI.

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BeatificBanana@reddit

OP said Coventry

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C_beside_the_seaside@reddit

Yup, and lots of people read this, so they have the information for Scotland now too! :)

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BeatificBanana@reddit

Hooray!!

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C_beside_the_seaside@reddit

Up the union!!

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lithaborn@reddit

And CAB and the council. If you've signed the contract, the landlord is in deep shit.

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Bendy_McBendyThumb@reddit

Fun fact: it’s just Citizens Advice now. No idea why they ditched the “Bureau” outside of “brand modernisation” for reasoning lol.

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nunmaster@reddit

r/okmatewanker users wrote to their MPs on mass demanding the removal of French words from various institutions. Yes I said on mass.

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FlyAdministrative481@reddit

Lmaaoo, is that real?

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colei_canis@reddit

Originally it was Yanks taking the piss out of us, but unsurprisingly the UK is much better at mocking itself than the Americans are at mocking us so it became what it is now.

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LegendEater@reddit

What should we call a croissant

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Nolsoth@reddit

I dunno sounds like French filth to me.

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Dry-Crab7998@reddit

When did that happen?

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-You_Cant_Stop_Me-@reddit

That sub is so shit I don't even know if you're joking.

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UnnecessaryAppeal@reddit

Considering that sub is 100% parody, it's clearly a joke

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-You_Cant_Stop_Me-@reddit

4chan was 100% parody but it led to multiple mass shootings around the world.

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Captain_Bruh@reddit

There's a difference between a platform full of racists, white supremists and other far-right incels "jokingly" advocating for that and a silly subreddit about the UK, parodying everything that our country is

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faustcousindave@reddit

On Mass just got me bien... oh fuck!

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APiousCultist@reddit

I'm experiencing some on-wee.

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spearmint_wino@reddit

As long as you don't shag gran, we're good

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LeonDeSchal@reddit

Oh merde

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Repeat_after_me__@reddit

En mass* ;-)

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xxnicknackxx@reddit

En masse* Also r/whoosh

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Nine_Eye_Ron@reddit

En quassaunt

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Repeat_after_me__@reddit

Whooosh… that’s what the wink is for plebitus

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xxnicknackxx@reddit

Yeah yeah

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technologicalslave@reddit

You said on mass, but you meant en masse If you'd like more shit you didn't need to know, let me know 😅

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Parking-Artichoke823@reddit

How do I start respecting myself and stop relying on pleasing other people to find a little bit of happiness?

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LatimerLeads@reddit

Lol

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MorningToast@reddit

Wooosh

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ElephantCohomology@reddit

Whooooosh

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Any-Stay-7779@reddit

Whoosh

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DiscountRug@reddit

I assume that was part of the joke.

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SparkieMark1977@reddit

That explains why the local pub had no crayons in for the kids to do the puzzles on the back of the menu.

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Bendy_McBendyThumb@reddit

Corrr blimey, I spat out my patriotism reading that

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Apprehensive_Plum755@reddit

It will save a lot of printer ink

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Bendy_McBendyThumb@reddit

That’s actually a good genuine reason, probably unintended from their end. Part of my job genuinely requires being conscientious of this by reduce word count where possible in all sorts of technical documentation! Great point, cheers for seeing it and bringing it up :)

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xcountersboy@reddit

More wasted headed notepaper.

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Zealousideal-Sail893@reddit

Not fun, but is a fact.

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Dudesonthedude@reddit

This! Especially council - they'll have a homeless prevention team who will shut that shit down directly with the landlord Expect an actual notice after that though

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Jonkarraa@reddit

Student let's are normally at least a 9 month fixed term if not 12. If you are in a fixed term notice cannot be served to end during the fixed period apart from specific grounds on a section 8, IE non payment of rent, antisocial behaviour, breech of contract etc. As others have said speak to the accomodation team at your university, potentially the welfare department of your students Union and the council. You can try shelter but it can be difficult to get though. Citizens advice are well meaning but they often lack specialist knowledge of the law and practice around accomodation and there assistance can be patchy on accomodation matters by all accounts.

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Zanki@reddit

As someone who went to uni in cov, when we had serious issues with our accommodation they told us the landlord had tried to sue them once for deformation and they wouldn't help us. So yeah, council is the way to go. Phone them, don't email because they take forever to answer. Legally they cannot kick you out until the end of your contract and they have to give you two months notice.

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CleeBrummie@reddit

As someone who never went to uni anywhere, I have to correct you. I think you mean defamation. 😉

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Zanki@reddit

Damn it auto correct. It's been changing the weirdest things recently. I turned good to gold the other day. Just turned gold to golf...

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sutaburosu@reddit

> I turned good to gold the other day. You'll soon be rich at this rate.

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billy_tables@reddit

He turned all the brick buildings into giant Tetris blocks

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Alsaki96@reddit

I like the idea of the uni deforming the landlord though.

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billy_tables@reddit

He turned all the brick buildings into giant Tetris blocks

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Kiel297@reddit

Yeah fuck asking for Cov uni to do anything that doesn’t specially benefit them tbh

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Viral_anal_SWAB-69@reddit

Way to back down on the uni's behalf lol Now he'll threaten that everytime he's confronted. Let him sue He wouldn't win

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jackiejack91@reddit

If anything I would say email AND phone. Phone for the quick response but also email so you have a paper trail as proof.

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DontCatchThePigeon@reddit

Also the students Union. They'll have access to legal advisors and will be used to dealing with ridiculous landlords trying to pull this kind of stunt on students.

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Ronotrow2@reddit

This. They've probably dealt with this stuff before

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Wanallo221@reddit

Probably dealt with it that day if it’s anything like when I was at Uni (2008 mind you). I used to do the students night line and honestly the amount of students stressed, suicidal or anxious due to landlords being dicks even then was immense. Not to mention the stories of landlords turning up at weird hours to girl’s accommodation to be as creepy as fuck.

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Ronotrow2@reddit

Yeah mine too early 2000s, some students trash places etc I get that but not all are doing that and landlords rip the absolute arse out of renting them shit flats and houses. Then try and rip them off..

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KiwiNo2638@reddit

If at all possible, and you haven't got it sorted in the week, do your best not to leave the property, along with everyone else in the property. Also check out the legal advice subreddit.

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doomdoggie@reddit

Rally the people in the building and refuse to move out sooner than your contract allows. If you all stay together, there's nothing the landlord can do.

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Odd-Row1169@reddit

It seems like it would be a waste to not host a few house parties while all this is happening too.

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jobblejosh@reddit

This is a bad idea. I'm not a lawyer, especially not OP's lawyer (and the number 1 piece of advice is that they should get some formal legal advice). The more disruptive your behaviour becomes, it gives the landlord ammunition to use against you if the issue ever goes to court (not likely but possible). What's more likely to give a sympathetic view? The 'nice, quiet, friendly students that did nothing wrong against a vindictive landlord', or the 'Unruly students who disrupt the neighbourhood with wild parties and loud music against a landlord just trying to protect their investment'? Now, you could of course argue that the parties only started as a tit-for-tat once the eviction was (allegedly wrongly) served, but courts even then tend to look down on this kind of unnecessarily obnoxious behaviour. In the same way that courts can deliver a more lenient verdict if a party shows good faith and character, they might choose to deliver a less lenient verdict (either by not awarding a full original claim, or not ordering 'nice to have' gestures (like 'the landlord must provide a good faith reference'). The cathartic response might prove satisfying in the short term, but I promise the patient and stoic response will deliver better rewards in the long term.

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Odd-Row1169@reddit

> What's more likely to give a sympathetic view? The 'nice, quiet, friendly students that did nothing wrong against a vindictive landlord', or the 'Unruly students who disrupt the neighbourhood with wild parties and loud music against a landlord just trying to protect their investment'? The legends who put on the best show the town has seen in years.

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jobblejosh@reddit

Unfortunately without proper licensing, permits, and insurance, the local court isn't likely to see it that way.

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Odd-Row1169@reddit

Sentiments like this make me want to hang myself. Slowly. It's the reason the skies are always grey.

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psioniclizard@reddit

Depending on the neighbours (not just in the building I mean on the street etc). Though some parties and having bands play might not be a good idea. The tenants potentially open themselves up to ASB complaints, property damage etc. Obviously it still have to go through the courts but an eviction for ASB will make it pretty hard to rent somewhere else in the future. Also, if their friends are anything like the people I knew in uni then they could easily end up breaking other parts of their tenancy agreement (mostly to do with drugs etc) which could cause issues. I don't know how enforceable anything in a tenancy agreement about not storing or taking drugs in the property is but personally I wouldn't want to test that in this situation. I agree with others, OP shouldn't move out but I would suggest it's best not to give the landlord anything to work with.

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jobblejosh@reddit

The part about breaking other clauses is especially relevant. If there's a 'no parties', 'no drugs', 'no loud noises', or 'no wilful breaking of furnishings and fittings' etc clause, then the contract could be null and void (sidenote: I'm no lawyer, this isn't legal advice) even if the original complaint was valid. In best case, the court might decide that both parties broke good faith, and order something like a legal minimum eviction notice. In worst case, the court sides entirely with the landlord because the issues caused by the 'protest party' are over and above the issues caused by the improper eviction. Especially if the court finds that the damages were willful (and given a public reddit thread like this, that probably wouldn't be hard to prove).

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BeatificBanana@reddit

Even if you break one or more of the terms of the tenancy agreement, the landlord still **cannot** simply chuck you out of the flat They have to officially serve you a Section 8 Notice, and must give you between 2 weeks' to 2 months' notice depending on which term(s) you've broken

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jobblejosh@reddit

Oh absolutely, the landlord can't forcibly evict you. I never said that the landlord was able to do that. What I did say is that if this issue ends up in court, the courts tend to look unfavourably on people who try retributive actions for an apparent wrong as opposed to going through the legal system.

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BeatificBanana@reddit

Oh yeah all true just wanted to clarify

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itz_wh4atever@reddit

I’m a cov local and fucking hate landlords. I’m also a DJ and am friends with all the local talent. DM me and I can arrange a fuck off massive sound system with multiple DJ’s making your landlords life miserable on like a weeks notice. Either way, do not vacate that property. Listen to the advice in this thread; contact the council, contact the uni, contact citizens advice and see if you qualify for legal support. I’m the meantime, see what you can afford in a few months. You’ll likely have to leave at some point, but not in a week.

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LettuceforPM@reddit

Exactly, organise with everyone else in the building, everyone needs to be clear that they won't be moving out Contact the university and don't stop spamming them until you get a meaningful response Go to the local papers and don't be afraid to name and shame the scumbag parasite

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First_Development449@reddit

>organise with everyone else in the building, everyone needs to be clear that they won't be moving out Can already tell this will be a pain in the arse

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doomdoggie@reddit

Local papers approach works beautifully.

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FatBloke4@reddit

Ask your local Students Union for help. They may well have legal advice available but if not, they can likely point you in the right direction. Probably, there's some problem in respect of renting the apartment and the landlord is in trouble with the council, freeholder or similar.

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Waiting4MidMoon@reddit

Call this number 0115 850 8190 it's P3 (based in Nuneaton, rugby and Coventry) and they will help you 👍

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waterfallregulation@reddit

He’s probably going to rent the place out to people claiming asylum for more profit. This type of thing is happening up and down the country and is so wrong.

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as1992@reddit

Please don’t bring your xenophobia into this thread, it’s unnecessary

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KoreanJesusPleasures@reddit

That's not xenophobic, sorry to burst your bubble.

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as1992@reddit

If you don’t know what xenophobia is then it’s a bit pointless making comments like the one you just made

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KoreanJesusPleasures@reddit

The irony is overflowing here.

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as1992@reddit

Wow, you’re not doing very well with understanding what words mean

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KoreanJesusPleasures@reddit

Don't think you are either. Funny how that works, eh?

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as1992@reddit

Or should I call you mr Kruger?

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KoreanJesusPleasures@reddit

Ya can't let go that you were wrong and called out for it, can you?

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as1992@reddit

🤣🤣 if that’s what you think is happening here then you’re even dumber than I thought you were Mr Dunning

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KoreanJesusPleasures@reddit

Keep it going, I'm sure readers are getting a kick out of your comments.

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as1992@reddit

Ok mr dunning

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nope-pasaran@reddit

Xenophobia or the landlord looking to exploit even more vulnerable people for even more profit.

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Ipadalienblue@reddit

Asylum seekers aren't paying rent, how on earth is the landlord exploiting them?

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as1992@reddit

Is the user im replying to a landlord?

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kelleehh@reddit

It’s on the news that this is happening.

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as1992@reddit

Ok? And where’s the evidence that it’s happening in op’s case?

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medievalrubins@reddit

As this is illegal, you can say No or make it an opportunity. Perhaps if he is desperate to move you elsewhere, this could play into your hands to move on the condition of significantly reduced rent at the new place. As a student you might enjoy the extra liquidity.

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heliorm@reddit

I assume you're rental is covered by an Assured Short-hold Tenancy, it's the most common type of tenancy in England. For the eviction to be legal and proper, you need to have been served a section 21 notice on form 6a. This requires a 2 months notice at least. You also cannot get no-fault evicted while a fixed term is on, If your contract states a term of time (like one year) you cannot get evicted legally before the term is up. Also check if your flat is properly HMO licensed, it varies from council to council, but if your flat needs a license but doesn't have one you cannot be evicted legally and you might be eligible for a rent repayment. As the others have pointed out on the thread, contact your uni and a local renter's union like Acorn, they should be able to help you.

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Relevant_Cancel_144@reddit

It probably isn't an AST if it's a student let. It wouldn't be likely considered as a primary residence. Nonetheless and irrespective of the agreement type, the protection from eviction act 1977 prohibits landlords from interfering with the comfort of the tenant and requires 28 days written notice of eviction. Demanding they leave sooner is harassment and the OP can take them to a civil court for damages

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

AST doesn’t need to be primary accommodation. AST applies where rent is exchanged for exclusive occupation of a property. There are some exceptions such as the landlord also living in the property (I.e. the tenants are lodgers) or if it is officially managed student accommodation (as in student halls provided). A student house will 99% of the time be an AST.

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Relevant_Cancel_144@reddit

AST needs to be primary accommodation - needs to be the main and principal home for the tenant. IE cannot be a pied a terre etc. Rationale for AST is the tenant doesn't have another home to go to. Student has in most circumstances got a parent or family home to go to.

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Steppy20@reddit

That is BS. If I move out from my parent's to go to uni, and pay rent for a room in a house share that is where I live now. It doesn't take your family into consideration because otherwise I technically don't have an AST for the flat I live in right now - which I've lived at for 18 months on two separate 12 month contracts - because my parents own a home. However my tenancy agreement literally has the words "Assured Shorthold Tenancy" at the top of it.

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Relevant_Cancel_144@reddit

There are four main requirements for an AST. The rent must be less than £100k pa, the landlord must not be a resident, the tenant must be a person and not a company , and it must be the tenant's main or principal home. Most students are still considered as living at their parents home as their main home as they return there out of term time and are on the electoral roll there. It doesn't matter if the letting agent or landlord writes Assured Shorthold Tenancy at the top of an agreement. It would still be considered in law and by a judge as a Non-Housing Act tenancy. But hey what would I know? I was only Head of Learning and Development for the UK's largest letting agent until a couple of years ago.

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insomnimax_99@reddit

If it’s a student let, then OP’s “tenancy” might just be a “license to occupy” in which case OP has very few rights (although whether OP is a tenant or a licensee is very dependent on the exact circumstances).

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

Not true. It’s an AST unless a) it’s officially managed student accommodation (I.E. student halls) or the landlord lives with them. A licence to occupy wouldn’t apply in this case even if the piece of paper claims it

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vbby05@reddit

is your estate agency cloud9 by any chance? awful student landlords in coventry

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Klutzy-Atmosphere-19@reddit

Based on what you say it's an illegal eviction, stay there and contact CAB

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EvolvingEachDay@reddit

The rental agreement/tenancy agreement means he can’t do this. Simple as that, you are allowed to stay for your full tenancy as long as you keep paying. So if he wants you out, he’ll have to pay you out, or wait.

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Shivee30@reddit

Your Landlord needs to apply for and be granted a section 21. That will give you 2 months. Notice. He can’t just boot you out like this. Speak with your local C.A.B. I don’t see your Uni getting involved as it’s not their problem.

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James-Worthington@reddit

As a heads up, your LL may try and convince you that the alternative accommodation is an equitable match - do not accept this. Check that the LL has provided you with everything you need from the Right To Rent checklist.

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ShatterStorm76@reddit

They've given incorrect notice, which voids the notice (it's the same as if it never existed)... therefore dont move, and respond to ANY and all complaints, threats or demands by saying "You haven't provided lawful notice. The document you did provide isnt lawful notice so if your intention is to terminate the tenancy, please provide lawful notice. Also please note it is not lawful to backdate a notice". If they show up to "relocate" you, call Police to have them thrown out.

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charlottee963@reddit

Same thing happened to my friend recently. It’s illegal, contact everyone others have listed.

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sEMtexinator@reddit

Damn. Warwick?

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CapricornPrime@reddit

I read somewhere they will make more money from refugees than from students ? Was that in Coventry ? That might explain why they are turning every one out. It’s a lot more money from them and a lot less responsibility.

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PeanutButterJelly-@reddit

Wow what a terrible landlord! Really hope you find a solution

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Icefirezz@reddit

Ahhh the old switcheroo of the business owner not realising contracts work both ways, same as everyone said, there's a contract, it's not just for you its for the landlord to follow too.

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Silver_Switch_3109@reddit

He would lose any court case.

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Lucky-Listen6214@reddit

Hello I recently started work in the homelessness sector, I'm no pro but this is some of the basic stuff I know around evictions In order to evict you through a no fault eviction they need to produce a S21 eviction notice, which gives 2 months notice. You DO NOT have to leave on the date on said notice. After this date has passed, the landlord will then need to get a court order to evict you, this can sometimes take months. Also if landlord hasn't done certain things like provide a gas safety certificate at the start of your tenancy thr S21 is useless and the court will laugh them out of there. Always carry on paying your rent (frustrating) regardless as if it does go to court you do not want to give them any kind of amo Check through your tenancy agreement and see what the conditions are around notice from landlord, this should be stated clearly. Shelter have some amazing advice on their website and also a helpline you can ring and can put you in touch with a solicitor. Try and only communicate through email or messages so you have a paper trail as evidence of what they're trying to do I spend alot of my working days arguing with dickhead landlords and the stuff they try and get away with is ridiculous, stand your ground and seek some sound legal advice and you should be OK, good luck

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OxfordBlue2@reddit

Change the locks *now*. Consider fitting an additional lock on any exit/entry doors so you can bolt it when you’re all in. Do NOT answer the front door without checking who’s there. Do NOT move out. If he attempts to use force call 999 and be insistent when the police says it’s a civil matter - it isn’t, illegal eviction is a crime. Keep paying your rent. If he wants you to move you’re in a good negotiating position. Tell him you’ll move out for 6 months rent plus moving costs. Get the money from him before you leave.

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Buddy-Matt@reddit

I wouldn't change the lock on any shared spaces, or add additional locks. The former would be seen as barring the landlord access to the public spaces - which he has every right to access. And the latter would involve drilling into walls, so could conceivably be classed as damage. The specifics of what is a communal vs private space will depend on how OP and their housemates rent, either individually, or as a group with a single contract. Absolutely OP should be changing the lock on their own door and any non-communal spaces. As long as they keep the original lock they're golden. And yeah, all the other advice is excellent.

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SpaceMonkeyAttack@reddit

This landlord sounds like someone who would try and put their stuff on the street while they are in class and change the locks himself. It'd be illegal, but it's a lot easier to prevent it happening than to call the police after the fact. I'd follow squatters rules: change the locks, always have at least one person in the property, don't open the door to unexpected callers. If he does come round with the heavy mob, call three police, but don't expect them to show up in a hurry. He might not want to break his own door down, so it buys time for the rozzers to turn up.

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Buddy-Matt@reddit

As long as OP only changes the locks on non-communal / their own privately rented space (and moves any personal stuff behind said door) they're getting all the benefits of preventing - or at least doing their best to prevent - their landlord illegally chucking their stuff out, whilst at the same time not doing anything that can be used against them if the landlord decides to chance their arm at a at-fault-eviction. In rental situations like this, it's always best to stay squeaky clean. Should you have your day in court, you've then got nothing that can be used against you. Changing the lock on a communal public space moves you into a situation where its not just thenlandlord in breach of contract, but likely you too. Cannot recommend.

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OxfordBlue2@reddit

The entire apartment is rented to OP and the other tenants. My assumption is that there are no shared spaces.

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

If they’re renting on separate contractsthe LL has access to common spaces. If they’re on one big contract he doesn’t.

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mypostisbad@reddit

DO NOT CHANGE OR FIT NEW LOCKS. This will most likely breach your contract.

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Askduds@reddit

Changing locks on your private area is never illegal whatever the contract says so long as you refit the old ones before you leave.

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technologicalslave@reddit

It doesn't matter what the contract says, you're ALWAYS entitled to change the locks on a property you have a tenancy in, there's case law that supports it. You have to provide the key to the landlord when your tenancy ends.

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shrewdmingerbutt@reddit

No, it doesn’t as long as you put the original ones back on leaving.

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n3m0sum@reddit

So long as you retain the locks you remove, don't damage anything to fit new locks, and don't cut off access for communal spaces in a multi dwelling property, you are fine to change locks. Any contract that says you can't is unenforceable.

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EvaSkeever@reddit

Rather than saying “don’t do x it probably breaks your contract” say “read your contract first”. I’ve tried looking into the matter before, it doesn’t seem like it’s a settled subject.

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mypostisbad@reddit

I've never rented a property before where altering the property AT ALL, let alone the locks, was allowed without express consent of the owner/landlord. But yeah, pull me up on how I phrased a post.

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DryInitiative7269@reddit

Hold tight, do not move out. If your Landlord does not live with you and you have a tenancy agreement in place you are entitled to stay until any court process is exhausted. Your landlord should have issued you a section 21 notice (this gives 2 months from date of being served to you) and if you have not moved out by that date, your Landlord will need to go to court (that process takes at least a month but can be much longer). If your Landlord doesn’t follow the rules (this appears to be happening) their case will be thrown out and will incur them even more delays. Only once the Court had made an order for you to move (a date will be set - usually anything from 2 weeks notice up to 48 days), will you need to consider moving, but even then you have the right to wait for bailiffs to attend after that date (you could add a couple more weeks). Whatever happens, just make sure you pay any rent due for the time you stay in the property and don’t wreck the place (any negatives will tarnish you for a lifetime and can be rightfully claimed against by Landlord) by the end of all this you will have probably been able to finish your Uni year. That said, don’t delay looking at other accommodation options while you have the time to spare. Your Landlord sounds like a numpty, it may also be worth your while to check if they at least placed your rent deposit into a Deposit Protection scheme, if not, you may be able to make a claim against your landlord. Hope you find this info helpful, ps… all my advice is informed/experienced , I am a Landlord myself. Good luck, remember your rights, you’ll be fine x

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SpaceMonkeyAttack@reddit

Do not leave. He has to give you two months notice *in writing*. After two months, if you do leave, and apply to the council for assistance, you will be considered "voluntarily homeless." So unless you have a definite place to go, do not leave until the landlord serves you with a court-authorised bailiff's warrant. He can't legally evict you without a warrant, and he can't apply for one until after the two month notice period. It usually takes a month or two to get the warrant, depending on how backed up the courts are. Obviously, it's not great having to go through that, but it's better than ending up homeless. Clearly, this arsehole isn't going to give you a reference anyway, so there's really no reason to make things easy for him.

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igual88@reddit

Please post of the r/legaladviceuk sub they can point out the proper legal route to take , was your deposit protected as well ?

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LiterarilyFine@reddit

You need to check your lease - it's a legally binding doc and your landlord has to give you the notice period provided for in the lease. It's unusual for a lease to allow a break one month in so unless the lease states this is the case, it would be unlikely he can do what he's proposing. a 6 month break with 2 months notice sounds about right - in which case, he can not 'break' the lease and ask you to leave till much later. Definitely seek some professional advice, and also make your landlord aware that what he is doing is against the terms of the lease and make him aware you are seeking legal advice. Also, you've signed a lease for this specific property - so he can't just move you to another one he has.

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Gadget100@reddit

A tenancy agreement cannot remove or reduce a right guaranteed in law - and the minimum notice for a section 21 notice is 2 months.

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Distinct-Dance3380@reddit

If you’ve signed a Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) Agreement it’s a legally binding contract. If it’s for 6 months the earliest he can serve you a Section 21 is in another 3 months time which takes you up to the end of the 6 months. Dig your heels in and tell them you’ve taken advice and what they are doing is illegal. If I was in your situation I would be asking for 2/3 months compensation to terminated your contract early, once you’d secured a new place to live.

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daynk_me_mes@reddit (OP)

Thanks for the love and advice, everyone. Really calms the soul. I'll start contacting the university student union and my immediate support links. I'll also cross post this to r/UKLegalAdvice for help. Once again, thank you all SO SO MUCH!

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wtfdoineedausername@reddit

In case no one has mentioned it yet. There is a housing team at the Coventry office of the central England law centre. They handle a lot of legal aid cases and can also provide you with advice

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

FYI it’s /r/LegalAdviceUK not /r/UKLegalAdvice

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Stuspawton@reddit

Legally he can’t do that, they have to give at least 28 days. Speak to everyone and get in touch with a lawyer

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Scattered97@reddit

God, I fucking hate landlords. Parasitical fucking scum. As everyone else has said, what he is attempting to do is illegal. Call the police, contact Shelter and your university. He's trying to intimidate you, scare you into leaving. Don't give him the satisfaction.

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PyroTech11@reddit

Only one thing worse than landlords and it's student landlords, they manage to sink even lower

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Paul8219@reddit

Change the locks

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grassyarse@reddit

Not sure anyone has pointed it out specifically, but ONLY a court can award possession and eviction can only be done by a balifd a tenant. Simply issuing notice doesn't grant possession, but when done correctly forms part of the process to gain possession. In this instance,.your landlord has done absolutely nothing in the eyes of the law.

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matrixislife@reddit

Would it be anything linked to this or a similar situation? https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12464659/University-students-scrambling-accommodation-weeks-start-new-term-kicked-rooms-used-house-migrants.html

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Practical-Custard-64@reddit

If you and the landlord have both signed a contract that gives you a minimum 6-month term and 2 months or more notice, then he can't thro you out with a week's notice. My guess is the government has offered him more money to house asylum seekers than he gets out of you as students.

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AdNo3558@reddit

He’s probably got a better offer from the government to house illegal migrants

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warlord2000ad@reddit

As per comments above, post in r/legaladviceuk Reddit. However, if you are on an AST they cannot evict you. Technically a landlord can never evict you, they can only ask you to leave. Eviction is done via the courts, anything else is you volenteering to leave. If it's an AST they can't make you leave, doing so is an illegal eviction and makes them liable to payback upto 12 months rent. They cannot issue s21 either as it's not valid in the first 4 months or within the agreed fixed term at all. Things maybe different if you are on a license rather than AST, so specifics of the contract matter alot. I do suspect it's a license if it's dedicated student accommodation.

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

Licence will only apply if it’s managed student accommodation as in student halls. A student let rented privately will be an AST unless the landlord lives there (even if the paperwork claims otherwise).

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annedroiid@reddit

> The rental agreement states that the landlord cannot evict us without at least a 2 months notice and 6 months after the contract has started That means he cannot evict you. Refuse to leave the property, and let him know that you know you rights and will fight to stay. You should also contact your university/shelter for advice.

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50nakedaliens@reddit

I agree but i would also start looking for somewhere else to live

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SomeHSomeE@reddit

Even with that clause the landlord cannot legally evict until 4 months have passed (with 2 months so 6 months for actual departure date).

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SnooPickles2866@reddit

This ^. The tenancy contract is a legal document. Your landlord will be in breach of your contract and therefore you can take legal action against them. You can also look into a specific performance order (I think it’s called that) the courts will order the landlord to fulfil their obligation within the lease that both parties (you & landlord) signed. You’ll all be okay 💜 what a twat of a landlord putting you all under this stress

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ref_@reddit

You don't take legal action against him because it breaches the contract, you take action because it's illegal full stop. It could say that he could evict you with 2 days notice, but it would still be illegal to evict without a section 21

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spaceshipcommander@reddit

"Dear *Knobhead*, I will be remaining in the property as per our signed agreement dated... Furthermore, I recommend refreshing yourself with regards to your legal obligations placed on landlords renting properties to private renters in England. Also consider any changes recently implement by the Renters' (Reform) Bill. I am sure that you are aware that any attempt to intimidate, forcefully remove, or remove a tenant outside of the proper channels (changing locks, denying entry etc.) is a crime reportable to the police. I trust that this is the end of this matter, and do not wish to discuss it further. I am aware of my obligations as a private renter and will be sure to communicate any intention to end my tenancy using the prescribed means with proper notice. Kind regards, Flat number 21" Just get every flat to send that and don't move out.

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dtwatts@reddit

Might be worth mentioning the various legislations that landlords can breach by carrying out an illegal eviction. The Protection from Eviction Act 1997. The Housing Act 2004. The Housing and Planning Act 2016. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and common criminal law

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spaceshipcommander@reddit

I thought this, but you might inadvertently point them to something that is useful for them so I would say as little as possible. For example, once they read the legislation they will realise that eviction follows a formal process and requires the serving of specific forms at specific times. Until they do that then the eviction doesn't even begin. They can send you 100 letters saying that you're being evicted, but unless it's in the proper format properly filled in (I think section 21 form) then you can just ignore them. By the time they have gone through the process, OP will have moved out. OP just needs to pay rent and ignore the landlord. Fit their own locks to prevent entry. Complain to the police that they are being threatened with an illegal eviction. Focus on their studies without fear of repercussions. Baring in mind I say all this as someone who rents out a house. Do you know how many times I've spoken to the tenant? Once per month to thank him for the rent and then once when the guttering started leaking to tell him the builder would be round the next day to fix it. I don't particularly care what he does in it. I could get way more money for it but he doesn't bother me so I don't bother him. I just want to cover my costs.

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dtwatts@reddit

I wish there were more LLs like you. I’m currently having an absolute nightmare with my LL at the moment, been threatened with him turning the water if this morning and sending the builders in to rip the place apart if I’m not gone by the end of the day. The best bit? His section 21 isn’t even valid as there’s no EPC or Gas Safety. And to top it off I got a voicemail last night from him threatening me and then calling me a cunt. I’m sure all LLs aren’t the same, but fuck me do the minority ruin it for the majority

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spaceshipcommander@reddit

I actually want to sell. I'm just waiting for my tenant to move out. He's got a house of his own that he's doing a full renovation of. Meant to be finished by now but looking like after Christmas. It's honestly not worth the trouble like people think unless you've got loads of houses and are prepared to exploit people. I'm not trying to milk them dry.

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Over_Marketing141@reddit

He might have most popular name in West Midlands?

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chocolate_gal_001@reddit

Years ago I contacted the Obudsman because I was mistreated by a letting agent. Not sure if it will work if you complain about a private landlord but give it a go https://www.tpos.co.uk/about-us

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briever@reddit

Dont move out. You need 2 months notice.

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ybriK__@reddit

Not really a solution but I know a landlord who does a lot of properties around gosford street area who's deading off the students because they got pretty good contracts from the home office to house migrants, as others have said as per your rental agreement you can just refuse to move

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yabadabadoey@reddit

That means you have 7 more months to live in the house no matter what the landlord says .

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Odd-Ad-3721@reddit

That's not legal. Even if you are a lodger you are supposed to get 2 weeks of notice.

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Wil420b@reddit

Tell him politely to fuck off and thst you won't be leaving. Contact your local NUS housing officer. The only way you'll leave is with a valid Section 21 of the Housing Act and if necessary let him take you to court. He won't be able to serve an S.21 until at least 4 months in, to coincide with the 6 month break clause. And then it will take months to go through the courts and cost him about £2,000. But dont tell him that, as you dont want to tip him off, about what he needs to do and so you keep him runnning around. Thinking that he can get away with just doing XYZ, wasting his time.

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Candid_Plant@reddit

you can get some great advice on r/LegalAdviceUK

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yaboytheo1@reddit

Do not move, report your situation to your uni and any other helpful authorities you’re in touch with, and document absolutely everything.

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RainbowApache@reddit

Get the locks changed.

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IamCaptainHandsome@reddit

Literally illegal for him to do this, he's trying to scare you into giving in, hoping that as you're students you'll give in because you don't know better. [Citizens Advice](https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/renting-a-home/student-housing/students-in-university-accommodation/student-housing-rights-and-responsibilities-in-halls/#:~:text=Notice%20and%20eviction&text=You%20have%20the%20right%20to%20stay%20in%20your%20accommodation%20until,cost%20of%20the%20legal%20proceedings.) has more on this, but in essence you have the same rights as non-student tennant's, and it's illegal for him to evict you unless you've broken a clause in the agreement, this includes relocating you. Typically speaking he'll either have to give you a notice period that you agree with, or go through the courts to have you removed. Make sure *anything* he says to you is confirmed in email or text. But I reiterate, what he's trying to do is *illegal*.

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Additional-Guard-211@reddit

Further to the other advice, your Local Authority’s housing people may be interested in this too. May not be able to do anything, but your property owner knowing you have contacted them will let them know for sure you are not to be messed with. They are the people who give out licences if one is needed. Do not stop paying your rent as normal as this will legitimise a eviction.

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antdb1@reddit

tell him to fuck off he cannot legaly do this if he trys ring the police.

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remarkab1emay0na15e@reddit

It looks like the drama queens have taken over and forgotten that having a pissed off landlord isn't good for anyone. OP should have a look at the new accomodation. If it is suitable then they can offer a "cash for keys" arrangement. OP can use this opportunity to call the shots. They can decide the tenancy length, a discount on rent etc. Be ready to dig your heels in, but don't forget the landlord completely low balled you do feel free to do the same.

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Puzzleheaded_Fold665@reddit

Move over... Boat people incoming.

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Eyeous@reddit

Tell your landlord to go fuck themself in the ass. Although don’t phrase it like that but more like - “As per our rental agreement I have received your notice period on x date and will make arrangements for alternative accommodation by x date + 2 months. Many thanks and kindest regards, -Daynk”

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Just-Bluejay-5653@reddit

Talk to all your neighbours, he can’t breech his contract.

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kittywenham@reddit

My landlord tried to do the same thing in January. I just said no, and, spoiler alert, I'm still here 8 months later. I told him he has to send me an official section 21 notice via the post and he has just never bothered. Even if he did, I would be able to fight back because he has failed to meet so many legal duties. And even after THAT, it would take months before a court would rule on the matter and ask me to leave. This gives you a hell of a lot more time to find somewhere new. If he is willing to break contract and act illegally like this read up as much as you can on all of the requirements a landlord must have met in order to file a valid section 21 notice. As everyone else has said, speak to ACORN and Shelter and your local council.

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Objective-Opening949@reddit

They can't evict you with one week's notice, so stand your ground. Sorry you are going through this. Here's some useful info on Shelter's website: [https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing\_advice/eviction/how\_to\_deal\_with\_illegal\_eviction/if\_your\_landlord\_tries\_to\_kick\_you\_out](https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/eviction/how_to_deal_with_illegal_eviction/if_your_landlord_tries_to_kick_you_out) [https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing\_advice/eviction/reasons\_your\_landlord\_can\_evict\_you](https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/eviction/reasons_your_landlord_can_evict_you) Hope this helps!

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Da1sycha1n@reddit

Lots of good advice on here. As someone who recently got evicted, here are my most important bits of info: 1. Check what type of tenancy you have and look it up on shelter. 2. If you have an AST, the landlord cannot evict you before the end of your fixed term and after that they cannot evict you without sending a valid section 21 notice. Check if it's valid here: https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/eviction/section_21_eviction/how_to_check_a_section_21_notice_is_valid 3. A landlord cannot forcibly evict you, if they send a valid section 21 notice then you have 2 months until they can take the matter to court and then when it's been processed a bailiff might be sent to forcibly evict you. But you will have at least 2 months before that happens and the court process will have no negative impact on you (apart from stress but it won't show up on your criminal record etc) 4. Speak to acorn and your SU - they will be able to give you personal advice and support Please don't freak out, the landlord is being a dick (surprise surprise) but he can't actually kick you out!

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WhyOhWhyYouDoingThis@reddit

Remember as well, any eviction notes etc required from landlord to attach 1) confirmation of deposit scheme 2) EPC certificate 3) gas safety certificate always! Without them any paper is not legally considered as lawful.

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Phillyj1234@reddit

https://www.gov.uk/private-renting-evictions

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tallcopper@reddit

Call the police

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NewPower_Soul@reddit

Change the locks asap.

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Reived@reddit

This is one of those horrible situations where you're at risk despite being in the right. I would suggest taking some precautions against the locks getting changed on you. Keep your "ESSENTIALS", with you at all times. Bank cards, mobile phone, medicine, charger. Don't allow some landlord thug to separate you from your most vital property. Consider trying to get the landlord to respond to a query about the contract violation. Get it in writing or voice recorder if you speak in person. I find it hard to believe that the landlord could state they were unaware of the contracts/law, but it couldn't hurt to remove any ambiguity. Start researching deposit protection. If a landlord is willing to do this, you may find that they'll claim false damages etc.. to steal your deposit. Write a small memo to the other tenants and post through their doors. Inform them of the contract breach. It would be better if you all are united on this.

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spaceshipcommander@reddit

If the locks are changed OP has the legal right to force entry. I would do it out of spite if so. Then take the landlord to small claims for the cost of repairing the locks and door. What OP should do is keep some proof of address with them so that the landlord doesn't try and lie about them breaking in.

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The_Blip@reddit

Proof of address is probably the most important part. With that, OP can get a lock smith to gain entry.

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spaceshipcommander@reddit

I would consider putting my foot through the door out of spite but a locksmith is the sensible answer because OP can then demand the money back from the landlord with the invoice or go to court.

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The_Blip@reddit

Yeah, and if you break the doorframe or something while breaking in then you'd most likely be liable for that damage.

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spaceshipcommander@reddit

I'd argue potentially not, but it's going to be a pain in the arse to argue. I suppose you'd have to say it was reasonable. Cutting a hole through the wall to get inside is probably not reasonable. I think I could argue kicking the door in was reasonable, but calling a professional is 100% going to be easier to claim for.

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TheFlyingHornet1881@reddit

Also get a backup of your tenancy agreement and proof of residency, in case of a scenario the landlord tries to forcibly seize entry to illegally evict.

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HoundOfHumor@reddit

Likely the landlord is going to be paid more to house immigrants.

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WowSuchName21@reddit

The ̶L̶a̶n̶d̶l̶o̶r̶d̶ slumlord cannot do this. Student agencies/landlords tend to do shite like this to students often because they are assuming inexperience. Simply refuse, call the police if they try anything, it’s an illegal eviction.

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AlexG55@reddit

From the "whole apartment" thing, I assume that you and your flatmates are all renting the whole apartment under one shared tenancy (rather than having separate tenancies for individual rooms with access to common areas). If this is the case, *change the lock on the front door now*. If you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself get a locksmith, but on many doors it's easy. Your tenancy agreement may say that you're not allowed to change the locks- you can ignore this term, it's unenforceable. The only risk is that if the landlord needs access in an emergency (like a burst pipe) and you aren't there to let him in, you may be liable for the resulting damage.

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Accomplished_Error1@reddit

There are landlords now renting student accommodation to the government for asylum seekers - if this is the case “staying put” isn’t an option and they will remove you by force. I would start looking for new accommodation now

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AverageCheap4990@reddit

If you have a contract you normally have to be giving one month notice. Also I suspect it's going to become housing for refugees.

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ManofKent1@reddit

Why would he want the place for refugees? And haven't they suffered enough without having to live in Coventry

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hv-1989@reddit

Don’t you think the people of Coventry suffer? It already resembles Syria thanks to the clientele.

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eli_cas@reddit

Government vs individuals paying for the rentals, and can charge much more. There's been quite a few posts on reddit about people being evicted to house refugees instead as they can charge 20-30% over market rate, and get it, due to government seemingly just spunking money up the wall to get them housed ASAP.

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Ptepp1c@reddit

The government is likely "spunking money up the wall" because 20-30% over pay on student flats is better than hotel/b&b costs.

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throbblefoot@reddit

I suspect a generous housing bursary that would bring in more than the students - one family per room, perhaps.

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SJL110587@reddit

He’s got no right to do that as stated, refuse.

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Aberdeenkev@reddit

That's against the law

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gondukin@reddit

From the description, it sounds like your contract is an assured shorthand tenancy (AST). Please check your contract and confirm it is, my advice is based on that. A landlord cannot legally evict a tenant without a court order. They can provide notice to end the tenancy and take possession, and for a no-fault eviction (you are not in arrears or otherwise in breach of your tenancy), typically a section 21 notice is used. This must give two months notice, and the date requested to take back possession cannot be before the end of your 6 month term. There are certain other legal requirements for a section 21 notice to be valid, however there is no need to go into them here. Even when a valid section 21 has been issued, a landlord still cannot just evict, when you failed to move out, they would have to go to court first. The solution is to stay put and refuse to move out. Make it clear to the landlord that is what you will be doing. Do not do or say anything that could suggest you agree to moving out. Another option is to try and come to a negotiated "mutual surrender" agreement with the landlord. That may be a less stressful outcome than fighting it. That would mean giving you a generous amount of cash for the inconvenience of finding a new place to live at short notice. The landlord may try and evict you illegally. That is a criminal offence, but would still be traumatic for you to go through. I would suggest contacting Shelter for advice. If the landlord does try to use threats or intimidation to remove you, or changes the locks, call the police. However, be aware that police are not always clued up on tenants' rights.

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One_Reality_5600@reddit

You just anwsered your own quetion. No he cant.

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StonedOldChiller@reddit

I think the only way the landlord could possibly do this is if the building had been designated a fire risk or some other kind of safety issue. Even then you'd get loads of information about it and would almost certainly be aware of the issues. Apart from that he can rant all he wants you've got a contract and he's got no leg to stand on. You stay as long as you need to to find suitable accommodation and get help from the police if he tries to evict you. CAB in the meantime. He's obviously a reckless arsehole for even trying this, so will probably try to pressure you in other so best to record all interactions with him.

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peterpan080809@reddit

Sounds like you’re being moved out to those economic migrants. The government will pay more per week than you will! Sad case of affairs. Goodluck with everything!

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toast_training@reddit

Landlords cannot physically evict you, ever. Either you leave because he has frightened you off, or he applies to the court for a possession order - which will only be granted if he has given the correct notice according to the contract and followed other correct procedures like deposit protection. Completing the court process, even if the landlords case is legitimate, can take months once this is done court bailiffs will eventually appear - this is the only point you actually have to leave.

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JorgiEagle@reddit

This is not legal. If you have a fixed term tenancy, they cannot evict you until the tenancy is over. This is an illegal eviction. This is not simply a civil matter, as the police may try to tell you, this is a criminal action. Call 111, report it, have it noted that the landlord is attempting to illegally evict you. If they try to tell you it’s a civil matter, you need to insist that it is not a civil matter, it’s a criminal one per the Protection from Eviction act 1977. [Shelter](https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/eviction/how_to_deal_with_illegal_eviction) has a good page on this. Also give them all call, on their emergency helpline

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Green_Battle_509@reddit

111 is the NHS urgent and out of hours number. 101 is the police non emergency number.

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JorgiEagle@reddit

Thanks for that!

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isthebuffetopenyet@reddit

Also, check where your rent deposit is? If he hasn't put it in a property rental deposit scheme, he's in serious shit. He should have given you a certificate confirming?

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Billiamski@reddit

If you're on a Assured Short Term tenancy the landlord must give you at least 8 weeks notice to move out.

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as1992@reddit

God I love the internet for things like this. Back in the 90s this landlord would have probably just gotten away with this.

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Hal1342@reddit

Contact the local councils private tenancy section. So many people forget that even though your not in council housing that all tenancies are overseen by them. Tell your landlord you are going to call them and often your problem miraculously disappears before you even make the call. “I’m gonna call the council!” Still an effective phrase you’ll find.

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phpadam@reddit

You can stay and thereafter he'd need a court order and bailiffs to move you out.

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PigHillJimster@reddit

I am wondering if the landlord has obtained a more lucrative contract from a UK Government Agency for the whole building, rather like the student accommodation in Huddersfield that is being repurposed, and reported here a couple of days ago?

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LoudMilk1404@reddit

Make sure if you stay beyond the 1 week, do continue paying rent - although I suspect it might be resolved before then.

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smellyfeet25@reddit

i am sure this is not legal, speak to the citizen advice bureau

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Solid_Bake4577@reddit

Don't move out. Make sure that there is always someone in the property and the deadlock is on the front door. Make sure that at least one ground floor window is always slightly ajar. Your rental deposit should be in a safe scheme - check that. Report him to the council - immediately.

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alfiewalters07@reddit

Post on r/legaladviceuk

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antrky@reddit

Anything to do with student accommodation being rented to asylum seekers by the government perhaps?

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Kirstemis@reddit

Contact your uni and then contact Shelter.

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External-Bet-2375@reddit

Just stay put for now, if you all do that there's not a lot the landlord can do about it in the short term.

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Bilbo_Buggin@reddit

As per your contact, he cannot evict you. His own contract states that he needs to give 2 months notice and needs to be at least 6 months after the start date. Refuse to leave, point him in the direction of the contract, which he would also have had to agree to, and contact your Uni ASAP.

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AdministrativeLaugh2@reddit

A landlord cannot just kick you out. Don’t leave and make sure nobody else does either. Get in touch with Citizens Advice and the University Housing Team, who should be able to help you out. He has no legal leg to stand on so don’t be scared if he decides to send you a legal threat. Your contract is legally binding, and ironically his words, so he cannot evict you until six months after the tenancy has started and potentially at least two months after that (depending on wording). If he has to wait six or eight months then he probably won’t bother with serving the eviction notice, but I’d be on the lookout for a rental you could move into if he does decide to kick you out in either March or May. The Student Housing Team at the university should be able to help you out there. If he continues to be a bellend, then go to the local papers. Even better, if you or anyone else knows a solicitor then ask them to type up a quick “my client and the other tenants will not be going anywhere as the contract clearly states blah blah blah”. Usually gets people to back off pretty quick

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kbm79@reddit

Adding to the advice already given, contact the local news. It may not solve your issue, but at least it will shine a light on the Landlord being shady.

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wiedelphine@reddit

post on Legaladvice uk reddit, you might get better answers. My limited understanding is that you have a contract for a specific place, and they cant just move you, unless its unhabitable etc.

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