Landlords right to evect by change locks

[Hay hay]

Hi again If a landlord has served a section 21 to evict and that time has passed then can the landlord evict the tenant by changing the locks or must a possession order be served first?

Thanks

[atticus]

The landlord MUST obtain a possession order. Changing the locks to evict is a criminal offence under the Protection From Eviction Act.

[Hay hay]

The landlord has indeed change the lock without a possession order
Can you show in writing please where it says it is a criminal offence?
Thanks

[atticus]

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1977/43

see sections 1 and 3

[Hay hay]

What shall I do? Shall I call the police?

[Hay hay]

Can I force entery into the property?

[dslippy]

Yiour local authourity should have an officer designated to deal with such things - and he should be used to dealing with these matters on an emergency basis.

[Hay hay]

Do you mean police or council?

[atticus]

local authority = council

[Hay hay]

I have a solicitor dealing with this now and they have given me tempory accomodation though the council. They say the land lady is in big big trouble now and could face prison

[dslippy]

It is seen to be something serious and very clearly wrong. Best of luck.

[Hay hay]

Thanks!