workmen have been in my flat without my knowing

[Auntieaunt]

I rent a flat from a private landlord.

I'm absolutely fuming and more shaking with the feeling of disgust.

I've just checked my voicemail and I've had a message left essentially saying 'im coming over tomorrow to finish off 'x' so don't be worried if you find things different when you return from work'.

This isn't the first time I've found the landlord just letting herself in with 'i did try to call' (she has a withheld number).

The day the workman let himself in I had left my clothes on the bathroom floor as I was running late for work. The house is a serious mess as I'm working 14 hour days with travelling.

The reason I pay nearly 50% of my wages on rent is because I want privacy.

I know the landlord has to ask permission but surely leaving a message either the day beforehand isn't acceptable? What are the actual laws?

Am new this first post i reply to .... but omg that totally not on i dont blame u for being mad !thought somone in my home is scary write letter of complaint mabye ?

• @Hissy my contract states that I cannot change the locks without the knowledge and permission of the landlord. Surely if that's also in the OP's rental contract then changing the locks does break the tenancy?*

I've had a similar issue before, my landlord kept on letting himself in with no warning and we were told by Shelter that we had to have the landlords permission to change the locks, which he wouldn't give unless we gave him the new key.

Your contract does not override your legal right to quiet enjoyment, if your LL doesn't abide by this right, you can change the locks to protect your rights

I got this from Shelter, several advisers, they sent me links at the time, and I also spoke to CAB who confirmed it.

Where I live, 24 hours notice is all that is required. They can leave a message or even just tape a piece of paper to your front door.

It always made me feel on edge as a renter, especially after a landlord entered after knocking briefly once and I was just getting out of the shower.

I changed my locks for a similar reason. You are allowed to change them regardless of what bullshit may be in your tenancy.

I have had this letter delivered.

My question, can they charge for not letting them in?

No they cannot charge a fee. Leaving aside the fact they have no right to disrupt your quiet enjoyment of your property, unless you have previously agreed to the fee in a tenancy agreement (and it does not sound like you have) they cannot unilaterally change the contract to charge one now.

No they cannot charge a fee. Leaving aside the fact they have no right to disrupt your quiet enjoyment of your property, unless you have previously agreed to the fee in a tenancy agreement (and it does not sound like you have) they cannot unilaterally change the contract to charge one now.

I found the letter, which was sent to my DD and her partner. We have signed a contract and it does state charges, and lots of things. But if we didn't sign they wouldn't accept us, so your kinda stuck

You can not be charged for this, your rights don’t get signed away!

Get cab advice sharpish and inform them that as the LL well knows, permission to enter is at your expressed agreement at all times and if you do not consent to them entering your home, they can’t

And yes, the law is THAT clear

If you’re ok with the inspection, allow it, but put into writing that you object to the inaccuracy and tone of the letter

Have a look at ARLA website or Landlord Zone, there should be info on what can and can’t be charged legally

Are you not answering her calls as the number is withheld? Might be better if you could speak sith her rather than get voicemails