HARASSMENT, UNLAWFUL EVICTION AND HOMELESSNESS
Harassment
The law protects everyone living in private rented accommodation -tenant, boarder, lodger, occupier - against harassment. Harassment includes:
- interference with your peace and comfort in your home; or
- persistent disruption of your gas, electricity or water supplies.
Examples of harassment include verbal abuse, written threats, physical violence, interference with your mail, entering your accommodation without permission and blocking or obstructing your access to your home.
Harassment by your landlord or anyone acting for him is a criminal offence. If you feel you are being harassed you should go to the Police. To assist them, keep a note of what happened, when it happened and who, if anyone, witnessed the alleged harassment. Although the Police may bring charges, any decision to prosecute will be taken by the Procurator Fiscal, not the Police.
Unlawful Eviction
In most cases a landlord must obtain a court order to evict you. It is a criminal offence for anyone to force you, or to deceive you, into giving up your home without a court order, if one is needed.
Being unlawfully evicted is a traumatic experience. Go to the Police and report what happened (but note that they have no power to put you back into your home). If found guilty, your landlord could be fined, imprisoned or both.
You also have a right to claim damages, which in some cases could be substantial. Seek advice from a solicitor or advice centre on how to proceed.
For Further Information see the booklet "Protection Against Harassment and Unlawful Eviction"
Homelessness
If for any reason you become homeless or are threatened with homelessness, you should contact the homelessness staff in your local authority housing department. If homeless or potentially homeless you are entitled to advice, Depending on your personal circumstances you may be entitled to other assistance
For Further Information see the booklet "Help for Homeless People"