PROBLEMS WITH WHERE YOU LIVE
You might have problems in the place you are living, for example:
- the house is damp, has faulty electrics, is a fire hazard, or needs repairs that are not being seen to
- you are being harassed or threatened by your landlord or the other tenants
- your landlord goes into your room/home without your permission (though you must allow reasonable access)
- you are being evicted or told to leave
- you can't get the deposit/bond back when you leave
You have certain rights that protect you as a tenant. If you share living space with your landlord, s/he has to give you 'reasonable notice' to quit. If your landlord lives elsewhere, you have to be given correct written notice, and if you refuse, s/he then has to go to court. In either situation, stay put, and get advice or support from one of the places below. (If you are a Council tenant contact your local housing officer first). Otherwise get advice from Castlegate, CAB, Customer Advice Centre or:
HARP - free, confidential advice on housing or homeless problems.
Housing Standards and Adaptations Team - if you’re in private rented accommodation and are being harassed or threatened by your landlord, you can contact Housing Standards for advice. They may be able to contact your landlord on your behalf. If you’re worried about the health and safety of your accommodation you can also report it to them and they may be able to take action.
Face to Face - offer mediation if you are having problems at home, or have been thrown out. They can also help if you live independently and have problems with people living nearby. It is free, voluntary and confidential.
Shelterline run a helpline for housing problems. They can explain your rights (also on their website) and help you to take action.
Being taken to court?
If your landlord is taking you to court to get you out of your home (eviction or repossession) there is an independent and free housing adviser from HARP at York County Court on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. It is best to get advice beforehand from Castlegate, CAB or HARP but otherwise you can see them on the day at court.