“My tenant hasn’t paid rent for three months, so I changed the lock out of anger. But the tenant called the police, and I was the one who got a warning!”
Many UK landlords have been shocked by similar situations.
Today, let’s make it clear: Can a landlord take action on their own?
1. What does UK law say?
Under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977:
A landlord cannot enter or lock a tenant out of the property without a court order.
Even if the tenant owes several months of rent, the landlord cannot:
• Change the locks
• Remove the tenant’s belongings
• Cut off water, electricity, or gas
• Threaten or force the tenant to leave
Doing so is considered illegal eviction or harassment, which may result in fines or even criminal liability.
2. What should a landlord do to stay legal?
Don’t take action yourself — follow the legal process:
Step 1. Send a Lawyer’s Letter (Letter Before Action)
Explain the rent arrears and request payment within 14 days.
A letter issued by a lawyer is more effective and serves as evidence.
Step 2. Issue a Section 8 Notice
Under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988:
• If rent arrears exceed 2 months (for an AST tenancy),
• The landlord may issue a Section 8 Notice.
This usually gives the tenant 14 days to comply or vacate.
Step 3. Apply for a Possession Order
If the tenant still refuses to leave, you can apply to the court for a Possession Order.
A lawyer can help prepare evidence and file the application.
Once granted, enforcement is carried out by court bailiffs.
The whole process typically takes 6–10 weeks, but it is safe, legal, and allows you to claim losses.
3. Real Risk Case
A landlord once changed the locks directly, and the tenant called the police.
The police classified it as illegal eviction, and the landlord had to pay thousands in compensation and received a criminal record.
So, even if the tenant is unreasonable, you cannot “fight back” illegally.
Lawyer’s Advice
If your tenant:
• Owes more than 2 months’ rent
• Refuses to communicate or disappears
• Refuses to move out or threatens the landlord
Contact a lawyer immediately to:
• Send the lawyer’s letter
• Begin the Section 8 or Section 21 process
• Legally recover possession and claim compensation
