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debsstainforth

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  1. If your landlord turns up and changes the locks in these circumstances he would be committing a criminal offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. Basically he needs to give you proper notice under s21(4) Housing Act 1988 (as amended) - ie because you are not in the fixed term of a tenancy - you have a statutory periodic assured shorthold tenancy, he has to serve the 2 months notice in the correct form (as set out in s21(4)) and it is quite specific. Further the notice even when it's served properly which it has to be, does not end your tenancy, it lets you know that after this time if you are still there he can apply to court to end your tenancy. Only the court can 'determine' (end) a tenancy (or you can through tenant's notice, but landlords notice cannot). If he tries to kick you out or even threatens it you should contact your local authority and ask for the Tenancy Relations Officer (usually in the housing advice department). They prosecute landlords for this type of stuff. First they'll have a gentle word with him or write a letter on your behalf. 3 more points - if the landlord is getting sh**ty you should make sure you get the place clean and repair any damage and take photos before you go- the price of a disposable camera could get you your deposit back. Also if landlord turns up trying to change locks you should ring the police but they won't be trained enough to know that it's a criminal offence they might try to say it's civil - so download the PfEA off the net or have an ODPM factsheet / advice from the TRO to hand. In any case the police will act to prevent a breach of the peace. Lastly you could just ring him and suggest he get advice 'cos his solicitor will warn him off his stated course of action straight away. Good luck.
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