8. My landlord's hassling me - what can I do?
This content applies to Scotland only.
Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England
Most tenants have the right to live in their accommodation and stop other people from entering without permission. This includes your landlord.
Landlords are not entitled to breeze in and out of your home whenever they like without giving you notice. If they need to come round (for example, to carry out repairs) they should let you know at least 24 hours before.
Some landlords try and force their tenants to move out by causing problems for them. If your landlord is making life difficult for you, they may be guilty of harassment. For example, this may be the case if your landlord:
- comes round to your home without warning, or late at night
- cuts off your gas, electricity or water supply
- interferes with your mail
- threatens or intimidates you at all
- starts repair work but doesn't finish it.
If you're concerned about your landlord's behaviour, there are practical steps you can take:
- Your landlord may not realise they are upsetting you, so try speaking to them first - take a friend or neighbour with you as a witness.
- You can also try writing to your landlord - keep a copy of the letter.
- Gather evidence of what is happening and keep a diary of incidents - this is very helpful if you decide to take action.
- Contact your local council - they may be able to help you deal with your landlord.
If the harassment continues, you can report your landlord to the police, as harassment is a criminal offence. You can also consider taking legal action against them.
If your landlord is harassing you because of your gender, your race or religion or because you are disabled or lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, you may be able to take action against them under anti-discrimination laws.
