When we visit, and your right to privacy

If you have an older, protected tenancy, the rules on access for repairs come partly from the Rent Act 1977, so some details can differ. See Repairs if you're a protected tenant.

Once you move in, your rented home is your home. You have the right to live there undisturbed, in peace, comfort and privacy. The legal term for this is "quiet enjoyment".

When we might need to visit

From time to time we'll need to come in, for example to check the condition of your home, carry out a repair or arrange a safety check. When we do:

• You'll get at least 24 hours' notice in writing. That's the legal minimum for a visit to check your home's condition and state of repair, and government guidance says the same for repairs.
• We'll come at a reasonable time of day. Government guidance describes this as not too late at night and not too early in the morning, and says it can take account of things like caring responsibilities.
• We arrange a time with you. If a time doesn't suit, just tell us.

Apart from a genuine emergency, a landlord should not come into your home without your permission. Government guidance says notice is needed unless it's an emergency and immediate access is required.

Your protection from harassment and unlawful eviction

We hope you'll never need this section, but it's your right to know it.

• Unlawful eviction is a crime. It is a criminal offence for anyone to unlawfully take away your right to live in your home, or to try to.
• Harassment is a crime too. It is also an offence for a landlord to do things likely to disturb your peace or comfort, or to keep withholding services you need, knowing (or having reason to believe) it's likely to make you leave or stop you using your rights. Government guidance gives examples such as cutting off electricity, withholding keys, threatening to change the locks or opening your post.
• Councils can act. Councils can prosecute, and since 1 May 2026 they can instead fine a landlord up to £40,000 for either offence.
• Evictions must follow the proper legal process. Government guidance says to contact the police if someone tries to remove you or your belongings without a court order or a court appointed bailiff.

If you ever feel you're being harassed or threatened with eviction, you can talk to your local council, Citizens Advice or Shelter.

Find out more

• Your rights and responsibilities as a tenant (GOV.UK)
• Harassment and illegal evictions (GOV.UK)
• Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, section 11 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Protection from Eviction Act 1977, section 1 (legislation.gov.uk)