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My landlord has changed the locks or told me to get out today. What do I do?Beta*

Notices, leaving and eviction
Private renting in England since the Renters' Rights Act 2025, unless the question says otherwise. General information, not legal advice.

That's almost certainly an illegal eviction, which is a criminal offence. Call the police if you are locked out or threatened. Then contact your council's housing team or tenancy relations officer the same day, because councils can prosecute and can help get you back in. A solicitor can get an emergency injunction ordering the landlord to let you back in, and legal aid is often available for this. Don't leave voluntarily unless you are in danger. Keep evidence: photos, messages, and the names of witnesses.

Sources: Shelter: how to deal with illegal evictionShelter: illegal eviction and the police

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Savvy Renter — savvyrenter.co.uk · free tools for renters. Answers checked 15 October 2026. The full list is also published as faq.json.
* Beta: new page, not yet reviewed by a housing adviser. General information, not legal advice.