If you’re unsure how to report landlord harassment to UK authorities, you’re not alone. Harassment by a landlord is illegal, and tenants have clear rights under the law to live peacefully in their rented homes. Knowing how to document, report, and escalate this behaviour is key to protecting yourself and your tenancy.
If you’re facing harassment or unlawful eviction, The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) should be your first call. TPS provides direct legal support and expert guidance tailored for tenants at risk, with solicitor-backed professionals available nationwide.
How To Report Landlord Harassment To UK Authorities
Landlord harassment includes any actions intended to make you feel uncomfortable in your home or force you to leave. This could be repeated unannounced visits, threats, cutting off utilities, or refusing necessary repairs. Under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, any attempt to harass or illegally evict a tenant is a criminal offence.
If you’re experiencing this kind of behaviour, taking action quickly is important. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to report landlord harassment to UK authorities effectively and lawfully.
Step 1: Keep Records and Gather Evidence
The first step is to document everything. Keep a record of any incidents that make you feel threatened or uncomfortable. This includes:
- Dates and times of unannounced visits or excessive contact
- Photos of damage or utility interference
- Copies of text messages, emails, or letters
- Statements from neighbours or other witnesses
Without proof, it becomes much harder for authorities to take formal action. Your documentation should be clear, factual, and organised.
Step 2: Send a Written Complaint to Your Landlord
Even if the relationship has become tense, it’s wise to start by addressing the issue formally in writing. Describe what behaviour is occurring, how it’s affecting you, and what you want the landlord to stop doing. Keep your tone calm and polite, and ask for a written response.
This letter can also help prove that you’ve tried to resolve the matter reasonably before seeking outside help, which authorities will consider.
Step 3: Report the Harassment to Your Local Council
If the harassment continues, contact your local council’s housing team. Councils have legal powers to investigate landlords who break the law, including issuing fines or taking criminal action.
When you do this, share the evidence you’ve collected and a copy of your complaint letter. Many councils have a private renting or tenancy relations officer, who is specifically trained to deal with this kind of case.
Step 4: Contact the Police for Serious or Criminal Harassment
If you feel threatened, unsafe, or the harassment includes violence, stalking, or criminal damage, you should immediately contact the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Harassment involving threats or intimidation may also fall under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
The police can issue warnings, pursue criminal charges, or involve other agencies if needed.
The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS) is a 24/7 tenant legal helpline offering affordable, solicitor-backed help for eviction defence, disrepair, harassment, rent arrears, deposit disputes, and on-the-day court support across the UK. Membership is £10/month. Learn more at The Tenant Protection Scheme (TPS).
Step 5: Get Legal Advice and Consider a Court Action
If local authorities or police do not resolve the problem, you may need to pursue a legal claim. You can apply to the court for:
- An injunction to stop the harassment
- Compensation for stress or disruption
- Legal protection from eviction
Before going to court, you are expected to try other remedies first, like speaking to your landlord or council. However, if these fail, legal action becomes appropriate, especially to protect your right to remain in your home.
Tenant Responsibilities When Reporting Harassment
While you have the legal right to feel safe at home, it’s essential to meet your own obligations as a tenant. This includes:
- Paying rent on time
- Respecting the property
- Being cooperative with reasonable repair or inspection requests
If you are behind on rent or breaching your agreement, some landlords may use that as an excuse to act unlawfully. However, this does not justify harassment. Two wrongs do not make a right, and courts will examine both sides fairly.
Time Limits and Urgency of Action
Statutory time limits may apply depending on the action you take. For example, compensation claims for harassment generally must be issued within six years, but urgent injunctions can be applied for in a matter of days where there is risk of unlawful eviction. Always seek advice early to avoid missing any legal deadlines.
Should I Still Pay Rent if I’m Being Harassed?
Yes. Being harassed does not remove your legal duty to pay rent. If you stop paying, you might unintentionally give your landlord more power to evict you through the courts. Keep paying rent and pursue your harassment claim separately through the correct channels.
Knowing how to report landlord harassment to UK authorities can be the first step in taking back control. With calm action, clear evidence, and the right support, tenants can protect their rights and homes.
Don’t face court alone. Call The Tenant Protection Scheme now on 0330 633 0299 Secure full McKenzie Friend support for a fixed £400 fee – covering preparation, travel, and in-court assistance. Protect your home and defend your rights in court. Call us now.