Estate Agents let themselves in....

[LeeUK]

When you have a tenancy agreement you have the right to peaceful enjoyment of the property. Just because the landlord owns it, it does not mean he has the right to come in willy nilly without the tenants permission.

Also change the lock. As long has you don't damage it and put the original lock back at the end of the tenancy there is nothing they can do.

 

[MBennett]

Any reason for the switch to a rolling contract?

I would check that the property is not now up for sale, if so get out, fast!

 

[No1newts]

probably not legal but what did you expected? it's not your house. if you want some privacy then buy a house.

Bit harsh

 

[Tom_ed1987]

Any reason for the switch to a rolling contract?

I would check that the property is not now up for sale, if so get out, fast!

Standard practice in an assured shorthold tenancy. All mine have been contractual for 6 months, followed by rolling monthly. The landlord has to give 2 months notice in order to evict, tenant 1 month.

 

[monkey_boy]

I know that we're obliged to give 24 hrs written notice per the TA. No idea what the tenants recourse is if we don't though.

 

[Amleto]

That is a terrible idea, if you withhold rent then you can be kicked out instantly and then face legal consequences and fines.

Instantly? No. through legal procedure its one or two months

 

[malfunkshun]

I know that we're obliged to give 24 hrs written notice per the TA. No idea what the tenants recourse is if we don't though.

Recourse would be along the lines of trespass or breach of contract (this is a fundamental element and does not need to be written into the contract, but it also cannot be contracted out either), a tenant can reasonably refuse 24 hours notice if they work, are on holiday etc etc. You need to give reasonable notice.

OP, you are doing the right thing by giving them grief, you should warn them that next time you will change the locks (you are quite entitled to but you become responsible for them and the workmanship)... I wouldn't change them on the first occasion, it would be a bit heavy handed.

 

[Jediben]

Remind the Letting Agent that you can easily claim that your the £50 you left in the kitchen has suddenly disappeared. Reiterate that any entry into the house without due notice could explain how your Xbox 360 got stolen. Finally, as you weren't expecting or aware of anyone having access to your house while you were out, you can't explain how that 55" Samsung telly you bought last month has disappeared.
If they don't take the hint that they are endangering their own staff with their practices, then I would move!

 

[StriderX]

Walk around nude, also your flatmate too.

May be awkward, but should get the message across...sorry if that message says that you could potentially be gay.