Can someone enter my rental property when I am not home?

JayneG

Hi there,

Bit of advice please from anyone who knows more about tenant's rights than I do!

Today I have received a letter from my lettings agent informing me that the boiler service is due and that a plumber will come round tomorrow. The letter states that the plumber will have a set of keys to enter the property in the event that we are not home.

Now we have 3 dogs, and I'm not overly comfortable with the idea of someone letting themselves in whilst the dogs are home and we are not. Most days someone is in the house, its just unlucky that they have chosen tomorrow, as we are both at work (someone will be checking in on the dogs, but no time is given for the appt so I can't time their arrival around the plumber's visit).

Are we within our rights to request an alternative appointment when one of us is home, or do we have no choice but to allow access to the property.

For what it's worth, I would have no problem with this if it wasn't for the dogs. My main concern is that a door is left open and they get out into the street.

Thanks in advance...

anselld

Given the timescale I would suggest you ring the letting agent and explain! I am sure any reasonable LA will agree to arange a mutually convenient time/date.

clutton_2

the short answer is no.

i suggest you call and make an appointment for when you are in - have a read of your tenancy agreement and quote the clause about them having to give 24 hours notice AND they have to get your permission

if you say no - they cannot come in - but do tread softly - you want to maintain good relations and every appointment is negotiable ...

as a longstanding LL it is awful how many times i see this happening ... i have several freinds who have sought my adivce on this very scenario