rented accomodation

[alfie jones]

We live in a rented apartment..I came home one day to find that the estate agents had arranged for a shower to be fitted, which we knew was going to happen-just didnt expect for the workmen/plumber to let themselves in when we weren't there..

I was just wondering, what are our rights, can they let themselves in on an ad hoc basis without letting us know..and would we be ok to change the locks to stop them doing this??

[Miss Zippy]

Your tenancy agreement will have a 'quiet enjoyment' covenant, which means that you should be left to live in the property without harassment or undue disturbance (from your landlord or his or her agents). Your landlord (or his agent) does, of course, have a right to visit your property in order to carry out their maintenance and repairing obligations but this must always be with your  permission and by giving you notice (at least 24 hours' notice), except in genuine emergencies. Your landlord (or his agents etc) cannot simply use their key and come and go as they please and to let workmen into the property without your knowledge or consent is totally unacceptable. It could be an honest oversight on their part; though a professional letting agent should know better. If your landlord/agent turns up unannounced and lets themselves in regularly, you have good grounds for changing locks.  Set out your grievances in writing first and let him/her know that if it continues you will change the locks (and take any other action you are entitled to take).

[Hammer]

I agree. It's your home, not theirs. You have every right to expect complete privacy. I would send them an extemely stern letter telling them you do not expect this to happen again or you will take it further.

[sasserina]

A few years ago my partener and I privately rented a property and were sleeping one morning only to wake a nd find our landlord and prospective buyers in the house ( as it was up for sale ) in the house !!! was terrible....