Landlord wants to enter flat - Can I specify a time?

sticky23

Thanks guys.

I did think about charging them for my time, but then they may think I've made this up to make some cash...

I'm also thinking about whether I should have the locks changed. They have after all been in the possession of this guy for several days, and that doesn't fill me with great confidence...

BitterAndTwisted

You are entirely at liberty to change the barrels of any locks as long as you replace them when your tenancy ends. In fact, I didn't realise these idiots still had a key. I'd get those locks changed pronto. Given their behaviour before I wouldn't be at all surprised if they think (erroneously) that they are entitled to enter when you're not there and haven't given your consent

The previous poster who advised that it might be in your tenancy agreement that all they need to do is give your 24 hours notice is incorrect. Normally it would stipulate 24 hours notice in writing but even then you cannot be compelled to comply. Look up "quiet enjoyment" if in doubt.

Sod 'em!

G_M

Oh good - I have to disagree with everyone!

First, regarding access rights. It does NOT depend what is written in the lease. Whatever the lease says, you can deny access legally if that is what you want to do, even if they give you 24 hours written notice or whatever. You can say "no".

But secondly, I don't advise the "sod'm" response. Although I deplore the negligent way they left the property after the last viewing, and condemn the lack of apology, I remind you your original LL has gone bankrupt.

If the administrators fail to find an investor (who would doubtless be happy to continue to rent to such excellent tenants as yourselves), they will resort to selling to owner-occupiers. And to do that they will have to evict you to offer the house with vacant possession.

You have not said whether you are in a fixed term or periodic contract, but it is surely in your interests to co-operate with selling to someone who will want you to stay.

So my advice? Don't give them a key. Do be polite. Don't put yourself out excessively to let them in at all hours. But do try to compromise and find times mutually convenient.

CloudCuckooLand

Was interested to see a Rightmove Ad recently, clearly stating "Tenanted until 24th February, no viewings until 25th February".

Don't recall seeing one previously.

Presumably someone else sticking to their guns on the right to peaceful enjoyment.

Tough whatsits, for the agents, imo.

BitterAndTwisted

Tough whatsits, for the landlord as well.

Most people are reasonable or can be reasoned with, so to completely deny any access tells a story all of it own.

sticky23

I agree it's in my interest that they sell to someone who wants me to stay in the flat. I have an assured shorthold agreement with the receivers which runs out in August, so they can't evict me until then...

So I'm not out to deny them access to the flat to prevent the sale going through - far from it. I'm just trying to figure out whether I can legally stipulate times of access, so I can be there..

As far as I know they don't have a key at the moment. But my thinking is, this person is obviously a little shady, and he did have my key for four days before Christmas. Could he have made a copy back then?

poppysarah

I'd change the barrel anyway. Keep the old one and swap it back when you leave. But they should never discover it's been changed. Because after all they can only come in with your permission.

G_M

I'm just trying to figure out whether I can legally stipulate times of access, so I can be there..

Yes.

Could he have made a copy back then?

Well, of course he could, but it seems unlikely. From what you said he is unreliable (unlocked back door was probobly a genuine mistake), lacking in sensitivity (could have been more apologetic), but not actualy corrupt or deliberately scheming.
But if in doubt, buy a replacement barrel for the lock from a locksmith/B&Q for £5, unscrew the lock and switch. As Poppy says, keep the original to put back when you eventually leave.