Problems With Your Landlord - How the Council Can Help

The vast majority of landlords are responsible and fair. In the unlikely event you experience trouble with your landlord, your council has some legal powers it can use to help.

Harassment and unlawful eviction

Harassment and illegal eviction, as defined in The Protection from Eviction Act 1977, are criminal offences.

Your council has the power to prosecute people who commit offences. Housing officers from the council will investigate complaints and mediate between the both sides wherever possible. Your council will consider bringing a prosecution where there is enough evidence to indicate that it will be successful and where it is in the public interest.

Failure to meet Landlord and Tenant Act requirements

The council has powers to prosecute landlords who fail to meet their obligations under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (as amended).

Such matters include the failure of landlords to provide rent books and the failure of freeholders to give long leasehold tenants information concerning service charges and insurance.

Where a complaint is received, the council's housing officers will endeavour to ensure that the required information is provided. However, in the case of persistent failure to provide the information a prosecution will be considered.

If your utility services have been cut off

If your gas, water or electricity supplies have been or are likely to be cut off because of your landlord, the council can help. Under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 your council can arrange to restore utility services for its residents.

These powers will only be used as a last resort for emergency cases and then only when young children or elderly people are affected.

In every case the council will work closely with the suppliers and wherever possible try to get the suppliers' support and assistance.

Crown copyright material retrieved from http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/BuyingAndSellingYourHome/RentingAHome/