Have a contract but can't move in

[Lucy1984]

Hi I signed an assured shorthold tenancy agreement to move into the flat i put a holding deposit down on 28th March 2013. On this date i met with the landlord who advised me that builders were finishing work and i should be able to move in that evening or on the 29th March at the latest. On 30th March 2013 i received an email from this landlord telling me that the tenants that were supposed to have been moving out had changed their mind and now our contract with him was null and void and he wouldn't force them out. I'm now homeless as was expecting to move into the flat on 28th March as per the contract - do i have any rights? Thanks

[teaboy2]

Re: Have a contract but can't move in

I doubt the contract is null and void. By the sounds of things the current tenants gave notice to leave therefore terminated their lease. The Landlord merely agreed to allow them to stay and for the current tenants agreement to carry on, therefore as if the tenants notice to leave had never occurred. But in doing so he may have breached his contract with yourself, if that is the case, then the landlord would be liable for any losses you have incurred plus any hardships you have suffered as a result.

My advice would be for you to go to your local council and speak to their housing officer, they would be able to advise you further and be able to place you in emergency accommodation in your local area whilst they find you suitable social housing or you find a place privately with someone else.

Though make sure you get your deposit back from the landlord.

[FlamingParrot]

Re: Have a contract but can't move in

Shelter should be able to help, they have a helpline from 8am to 8pm Mon-Fri:http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_ad...dvice_helpline

I am going to steal a link from Plan B :yo: who posted it on another thread: http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_ad...ld_tenancies#2

[Lucy1984]

Re: Have a contract but can't move in

Thank you

I doubt the contract is null and void. By the sounds of things the current tenants gave notice to leave therefore terminated their lease. The Landlord merely agreed to allow them to stay and for the current tenants agreement to carry on, therefore as if the tenants notice to leave had never occurred. But in doing so he may have breached his contract with yourself, if that is the case, then the landlord would be liable for any losses you have incurred plus any hardships you have suffered as a result.

My advice would be for you to go to your local council and speak to their housing officer, they would be able to advise you further and be able to place you in emergency accommodation in your local area whilst they find you suitable social housing or you find a place privately with someone else.

Though make sure you get your deposit back from the landlord.

[teaboy2]

Re: Have a contract but can't move in

Your welcome.

Keep us updated on how things progress or if you need further help or advice.