Landlords Entry

[Louise1234]

Hi my Partner and I have just moved into our first house, which is being privatly let out to us, one problem, we are not keen on our landlord, not much of a problem as she does not live very close but one thing I am worried about is whether she is allowed entry into the house when we are not there?

Thanks

[teag1rl]

Will this not be in your contract? Have to give you 24 hrs notice or something.

[Louise1234]

All it said in our contract was that she had the right to enter the property when convient after a weeks notice but it did not say if we have to be there or whether she can just let herself in?

[teag1rl]

the she's worded it in a cunning way! I'm sure there'll be someone more helpful as I see you've asked in law too. Since I would have thought she has to say when when she is coming, if you didnt want her to be alone, you'd have to arrange to be in.

[Louise1234]

Ok thanks, She is just one of those people who you think would not think twice about going through your drawers, I understand it is her property and she will want to come around to check on it I just do not want her to be alone there, thanks v much for your help though

[Velvetee]

As a Landlord myself, I would not dream of entering the property I rent to my tenants, without asking permission and agreeing a mutually suitable time. Your Landlord should not be entering your home without permission and this should be stated in your contract.

Even if it is her property, she should at least respect her tenants' privacy. If she want's to do an inspection, then she should give you at least 2 weeks notice of her desire to do so. Again, it will come down to what is in your contract, which should be read carefully before you sign.

[Twenty20]

Velvetee is correct. A landlord has no automatic right to enter your home, whether you are there or not. I know a lot of landlords ignore this and tell the tenant that they have the right to enter - they dont, except in an emergency such as a gas leak. More landlords should read the Landlord and Tenant Act and be au fait with the law.

This falls under the 'quiet enjoyment' part of the Landlord and Tenant Act and as such will override any clauses the landlord puts in your tenancy agreement.