Are you unsure if you need a lawyer to go up against your landlord? The simplest method is to talk to a lawyer and find out if they can help you, but we’ve put together a few instances when you’ll certainly want one fighting your case.

1. The Landlord Won’t Return Your Deposit

One of the most common problems between tenants and landlords is whether or not the deposit should be returned. If you started renting after 6 April 2007, the landlord is legally required to place your deposit into a government backed tenancy deposit scheme if the home is rented on an assured shorthold tenancy. If the landlord has taken money out of it, you may be able to get recompensed.

In most cases, as long as you’ve paid both rent and bills, met the terms of the tenancy agreement, and haven’t damaged the property, you’re entitled to your deposit return.

2. When You Feel That the Tenancy Agreement is Wrong

Does something feel off about the tenancy agreement? If the landlord is attempting to change the way you rent, or if they have some tricks up their sleeve, you may wish to consult with a lawyer who is experienced in property law.

3. If You’re Being Unfairly Evicted

Unfair evictions are something you can fight and it’s best to discuss your situation with a lawyer in order to ensure that you’re being treated fairly.

If you return home only to find the locks have been changed or if the landlord hasn’t given a notice to leave the property, you may have been unfairly evicted. This is also the case if you’re evicted without a court order.

4. If You’ve Been Harassed or Discriminated Against

If your landlord has done anything to harass or discriminate against you, it can be a big problem. If they’ve stopped an essential service, such as water or electricity, withheld keys, refused to repair and replace things, or threatened you, these can all be classed as harassment. You need to speak to a lawyer immediately if any of these situations are similar to yours.

5. If Someone Close to the Landlord is Harassing You

If a family member or friend of the landlord is the one doing the harassing, it still counts as harassment and you should get legal advice on handling it. The landlord is responsible for preventing this type of behaviour and that means you shouldn’t put up with it.

Any time you feel that things aren’t fair in your tenancy or if you’re worried that your landlord is getting to be threatening, it’s time to bring the law into the equation.

Call us today to learn more about your rights as a tenant.