Letting agency, access?

[Whatamess00]

need some advice please. I’ve had a bit of a breakdown and my (rented) house is currently a documentary mess. I cancelled an agents appointment but they let themselves in, only saw the hallway but it was bad. I had a panic attack and they left. I’m now scared I’ll be evicted (house below market rent) Do I contact them now and offer further check ups, wait for their response (1 month notice) and renegotiate? Can they enter the property again without my permission if they think it’s not being looked after? TIA

[Fattymcfaterson]

Well officially they were trespassing. But if its as bad as you say they may well move to evict etc, but they can't do that till the end of your contract.

I would send an email expressing your disappointment at them not following the law. (They are not allowed to enter your premises without your permission unless it is an emergency) and offer another date for inspection. Then get yourself together and get the house in order.

[Whatamess00]

Thank you, I’m well over my tenancy been here years so it will be one months notice. I was just unsure wether to contact them first and also if they could let themselves in, in the meantime. Some people have said 24 hours notice some have said I can refuse that and they can’t enter bar an emergency?

[19lottie82]

Hi OP, landlords need to give 2 months notice, not 1. Not really helpful but just so you know!

Legally, they can’t let themselves in without your permission (unless they genuinely suspect an emergency, such as a fire or gas leak). Contracts often state they can when they give 24 hours notice, but this is incorrect. Statute law over rides contract law, every single time (zap just because they put a clause in your contract, doesn’t mean it’s legal or enforceable).

[Fattymcfaterson]

They can give 24 hours notice but legally you are able to refuse them entry. They'll try to say otherwise but the law is very clear on this.

[NotANotMan]

They shouldn't have let themselves in without your agreement but some letting agents are shit and will do that.
I suggest you call them and reschedule, and use the time to clear the house.

[Jon65]

The ll can give 24 hours notice and if you do not object can let themselves into the property. If you object at the time they let themselves in they must leave. If you respond to the information they will be attending the property by saying no, I don't want you here, then they should not attend.
It is in your best interests to try and work with the ll or agent. Have you informed them of your mh issues. Is there a friend who can help you clean up? And then be there with you for a further appointment? Try speaking to the ll direct rather than the agent. They would rather work with you to resolve things than go through the palaver of possession proceedings, warrants of possession etc. In your position, give them a call explain things, offer another date for viewings. There are good lls out there.