If you're having serious problems with your landlord and they're acting in a way which you feel is unfair, what they're doing could possibly be classed as harassment. Harassment is a criminal offence and local authorities have the power to investigate these incidents. It can be defined as "acts by a landlord or an agent which are likely to interfere with the quiet enjoyment of the property by the tenant or withdrawing or withholding services."

Landlords must follow a set procedure if they want to evict tenants. What they have to do depends on what type of tenancy you have.

Private house or flat (assured periodic tenancy): Since 1 May 2026, landlords can no longer use Section 21 "no fault" notices. To end your tenancy they need a legal reason (a "ground for possession") and must give you a Section 8 notice. If you don't leave, they must get a court order. They can't lawfully remove you themselves.

Shared student houses: Landlords of student HMOs have one extra option, Ground 4A (see our Contracts page). It needs advance written warning, four months' notice, and a leaving date between 1 June and 30 September.

Lodgers and some licences (including most halls): Different rules apply. Your landlord or provider must still give reasonable notice and follow your agreement, but you may not be entitled to a court hearing. Contact us for advice.

If your landlord evicts you, or attempts to evict you, without following the proper legal procedure, then it is likely to be an illegal eviction. In extreme cases, this could involve changing the locks and putting a tenant's possessions out onto the street.

Like harassment, illegal eviction is a criminal offence, and local authorities have the power to investigate these incidents.

If you get a notice, don't ignore it and don't assume it is valid. Contact the NTSU Advice Service as soon as possible.