Illegal Eviction in the UK: Your Rights and What to Do (2026)
Being forced out of your home without a court order is illegal eviction — a criminal offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. Your landlord cannot change the locks, remove your belongings, cut off utilities, or harass you into leaving.
Related guidance inside this topic
- If your next step turns on legacy Section 21 notice rules, read Section 21 validity guides.
- For the dates, forms, and evidence behind legacy Section 21 notice rules, see legacy Section 21 checker before you respond.
- If this issue overlaps with section 13 rent increase rules, check rent rise checker to compare the legal tests.
- For a fuller breakdown of landlord repair duties, use landlord repairs checker for the underlying rule set.
- If you need the route-specific rules on legacy Section 21 notice rules, start with Section 21 transition rules so you can check the dates and documents against your own case.
Related articles
- Rent increase rules in England
The split between pre-1 May 2026 and post-1 May 2026 section 13 rules, including Form 4, Form 4A, notice periods, and tribunal rights. - Tenant rights in England: complete guide
The main overview page linking eviction, repairs, deposit protection, rent increases, and illegal eviction rights together. - Old rules vs new rules after May 2026
The side-by-side transition guide for Section 21, Section 8, rent increases, and periodic tenancies after 1 May 2026. - Renters' Rights Act 2026: complete guide
The main reform guide covering Section 21 abolition, Section 8, rent increases, pets, and private rented sector enforcement changes. - How to challenge an eviction notice in England
Action-focused guide for identifying the notice type, checking validity, gathering evidence, responding safely, and preparing for court.
Common questions
- What is illegal eviction?
- Illegal eviction occurs when a landlord forces a tenant out without following the proper legal process — for example, by changing the locks, removing belongings, or cutting off utilities without a court order.
- Is illegal eviction a criminal offence in the UK?
- Yes. Under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, illegal eviction is a criminal offence punishable by up to 2 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
- What should I do if my landlord changes the locks?
- Call the police immediately and contact Shelter on 0808 800 4444. Do not leave voluntarily. You have the right to re-enter your home and can apply for an emergency court injunction.
Use the interactive checker on getrentersrights.com for the full step-by-step result.