I need help with an eviction notice

If your landlord threatens you with eviction, the best course of action is to seek legal advice immediately.

It is illegal for landlords to evict tenants by using methods such as changing locks while they are out, physically throwing them out, or preventing tenants getting into part or all of their home. If this happens, call the police.

Landlords must follow certain procedures to evict you. The first step your landlord has to take is to ask you to leave, which is usually done via a written notice in which the landlord serves notice of their intention to seek possession of the property. This may of course be mutually beneficial, as you may well be wishing to find alternative accommodation. If, however, you think the landlord is being unfair or unlawfully trying to evict you, you should seek legal advice at this point and speak to the Citizens Advice Bureau.

The written notice served by the landlord must comply with several specific requirements set out in the law. A landlord cannot evict you from a property nor are they allowed to change the locks without a possession order. Bailiffs (enforcement officers) are the only ones who should execute this order.

This is a complicated area and you should always seek expert legal advice. If you are unsure about how to access local legal advice, go to the MySurrey Hive to speak to an adviser who can offer appropriate referrals to local legal advice.