12 people living in my flat- help me get them out

Tassotti

Kitten

You never knowingly rented to twelve people....If the council find out that it is effectively an HMO, it may well help your case in removing these scumbags.

I really hope that this situation resolves itself, without too much cost to you...

In the future, ONLY rent to people with a proven credit history, previous LL references and the like.

Don't think you are alone...I believe that all LLs, including myself, has made bad decisions..

Just learn from it (an expensive lesson I know) and move on

Ade

tbs624

Kitten-Pie - join up to LandlordLaw - see here - membership is tax deductible: guidance from a specialist LL&T solicitor.

Don't simply rely on your LA to sort the paperwork properly : no quals. or training required to become an LA and many of them don't have a clue.

You need to let the providers of your LL buildings insurance know what has happened - you may have legal cover as part of your policy, so it may be worth checking your policy.

You don't need to waste time with subterfuge and anonymous checking - if the property was properly let to one man & his child, then you have nothing to worry about. You would, however, be covering your own back by notifying the EHO at the Council that the tenants have moved other people in without your prior knowledge or consent and that you are concerned about HMO rules.

You may also want to contact the utilities providers because if this lot are also operating an "indoor horticulture facility" (ie growing some wacky baccy) they may be bypassing the meters. You would merely be doing your duty as an upright LL to explain any such concerns to the local police station.;)

On the eviction procedures, do play it by the book because tenant harassment and illegal eviction are criminal charges and if you have a T who knows how to "play the game" it can cost you dearly.