This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland

Worried about eviction?

If you're facing eviction and have nowhere to go, contact a local advice centre as soon as you can. An adviser can check whether your landlord is following the rules: if they're not, it could be an illegal eviction. And even if they've done things properly and the bailiffs are on the way, it's sometimes possible to stop or delay eviction.

Landlord hassling you?

If your landlord's snooping around, threatens you, or comes round unannounced, they may be guilty of harassment. If a landlord is trying to force you to leave by doing things like this, it's probably a criminal offence. You can take practical steps to try to stop the harassment, and the council may be able to help.

Home unsafe or needs repairs?

If you're worried about gas, fire, or electrical safety in your home, don't take risks. Find out what your landlord's responsibilities are, and make sure they are met. If your home needs repairs, your options will depend on whether you rent from a private landlord, the council or a housing association.

Haggling over a deposit?

Government-backed deposit protection schemes should make problems getting your deposit back a thing of the past, as you and your landlord will have to agree on how much you get back.

However, if you paid your deposit before 6 April 2007, and have not signed a new tenancy agreement since then, you may still have problems. Get advice on getting your deposit back, and don't get ripped off.