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Original poster

Renter’s advice needed please!

13 replies

GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 18:51

Hi, we are renting and have been living in our house for 3 and a half years. 2 and a half weeks ago, my landlady sent me a WhatsApp message to let me know that she needs to sell the house.

Luckily, we have found somewhere to move to and have given notice to leave in 6 weeks’ time. We are now starting to pack up our stuff.

The problem is, our landlady has instructed estate agents (before either of us had given notice) and we are being hounded to give up a set of keys to them so they can do photos and viewings. The house really isn’t in a state for either though as we are packing up and both work full time, meaning it’s slow progress!

We have asked for a short period of grace where we can get the house in a state for photos and people coming in and out (bearing in mind it’s not even been 3 weeks yet since we found out the intention to sell) but they keep ringing and emailing.

Does anyone know if we have any legal rights here?

Thank you!

OP posts:
abbs1 · 05/09/2023 18:56

It is the tenants right until the end of a tenancy to live in the property in peace and without harassment from the landlord or estate agent. The only reason they should be allowed in is if you have an issue that needs to be resolved and getting photos etc I wouldn't say is one.
If it was me (I've rented for years) I would say no I need my keys as I come and go different times to my partner and they can wait and get photos etc once you have vacated the property at the end of the tenancy.

Original poster
GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 18:59

Thank you, that’s what I was hoping to do but this is the first time I’ve rented so wasn’t sure on my rights! It’s not that long until we move out really.

OP posts:
Ratfinkstinkypink · 05/09/2023 19:00

I was just typing out pretty much what @abbs1 has said, you have the right to 'quiet enjoyment' and absolutely do not have to say yes.

Original poster
GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 19:05

That’s really good to hear, thank you. We’re not trying to be deliberately obstructive but we also have a young son who we are trying to help through the change of starting school tomorrow and moving home soon.

OP posts:
abbs1 · 05/09/2023 20:34

You have given the landlord/Estate agent a date when you will be gone and they will have to wait until then. They won't be able to get photos etc with all your boxes etc anyways and you shouldn't feel like you have to go out of your way to help the landlord because they've decided to sell. You're moving out as quickly as your able to and they will just have to wait until you hand the keys back. If they try to force entry or harass you I'm sure ive seen a thread on something like this and the police were called and the landlord arrested and told to stay away until the keys were returned.
I hope they leave you alone. Its the last thing you need when you're moving out. I hope your move goes well into your new home.

Original poster
GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 20:57

Thank you, I really appreciate your messages. It isn’t a long time at all until we move. I just wasn’t sure if I was being unreasonable in saying I wanted to put the photos on hold while we were packing.

OP posts:
abbs1 · 05/09/2023 21:10

GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 20:57

Thank you, I really appreciate your messages. It isn’t a long time at all until we move. I just wasn’t sure if I was being unreasonable in saying I wanted to put the photos on hold while we were packing.

No not at all! It's your home whilst you rent it under your contract and the landlord cannot enter without your permission.

Morechocmorechoc · 05/09/2023 21:42

They can't, however maybe they are having a big financial struggle and mortgage rates are up or ending and they need to sell before it expires and goes up. You don't know their situation either, so if you're able give them a date that works in say a weeks time for photos? It's your home and they shouldn't hassle you for sure. 6 weeks if you suddenly urgently need to sell can be a huge deal

Original poster
GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 21:47

Hi, I do know that my landlady is also renting somewhere else in the country and she has been told she needs to move before Dec. 23. I presume she wants to buy somewhere near where she is now.

I am more than happy to set a date in a week or two. That is what I initially suggested but the estate agents have been hassling me and my husband every day

OP posts:
Gro · 05/09/2023 22:11

When we were renting and getting ready to move I allowed landlady in with an estate agent but refused anything more than that. We had stuff everywhere. If they were to take photos all of our things would have been in the pics (laundry, photos of children, boxes etc) would have made me really uncomfortable having all that online. Luckily she accepted it and didn't ask again.

Original poster
GoldenGlobes · 05/09/2023 22:18

That’s exactly the position we are in. I am in the middle of moving and cannot prioritise her house move right now. This is our home, we haven’t chosen to sell it! We only really have weekends to pack our stuff as we both work long hours.

OP posts:
Gro · 05/09/2023 22:34

Just say no, sorry but it isn't convenient for us. Add reasons if you like.

Original poster
GoldenGlobes · 06/09/2023 13:01

Yes, you are right! Thank you. I have emailed them now to basically say ‘back off!’ (but more polite!) I’ve heard nothing since 🤞🏻we just need time to get ourselves sorted.

OP posts:
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