Can my landlord enter my garden without my permission?

Generally, if your tenancy agreement includes the garden as part of the let, your landlord should give notice and seek consent before entering. Frequent or unjustified entry is not allowed.

What should I do if my landlord is always on the property?

Try to discuss the issue calmly with your landlord and put your concerns in writing. If this does not resolve the issue, you can contact your local council or make a complaint to the First-tier Tribunal.

Is it OK for my landlord to live in an outbuilding during my tenancy?

No, unless your agreement specifically sets out shared occupation or facilities. Typically, tenants have exclusive possession of all included areas and shared living is not allowed.

What legal action can I take for persistent landlord intrusion?

You can apply for a Rent Repayment Order (using Form RRO1) or make a claim through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for breaches of your rights.

Can the police help if I feel harassed?

If you feel threatened, contact the police or your local council, as landlord harassment is a criminal matter under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.

Can Your Landlord Stay on the Property Grounds in England?

Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance England published: June 29, 2025

As a renter in England, knowing your right to privacy is essential—especially when it comes to your landlord accessing or staying on the property grounds. There are strict rules in place to ensure tenants feel safe and respected in their homes. This article explains what landlords can and cannot do, the legal limits, and how you can respond if you feel your privacy is being compromised.

Your Right to Privacy and the Landlord’s Role

Renters in England are protected by law when it comes to privacy. While your landlord owns the property, you have the right to live peacefully, without unnecessary intrusion. The main points to remember are:

Landlord access is limited—your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ notice in writing before entering your home for inspections or repairs, except in emergencies.
Reasonable access only—your landlord generally may not enter or remain on the grounds without good reason or your agreement.
Exclusive possession—if you have an assured shorthold tenancy, you usually have exclusive use of both the inside and immediate outside (garden, driveway) during your tenancy.

The rules are set out in the Housing Act 1988 and apply to most private renters in England¹.

Can a Landlord Stay or Linger on the Property Grounds?

Your landlord should not stay on or frequently visit the property’s grounds (including the garden, driveway, or communal areas) without your permission or proper notice. Doing so may be considered harassment or an interference with your right to quiet enjoyment of your home.

Occasional visits for repairs or viewings with correct notice are allowed.
Living on-site (such as in an outbuilding) is not permitted unless this was agreed in your tenancy and does not restrict your exclusive use of the home.
Your landlord cannot use spare rooms, garages, or outbuildings unless your agreement specifically allows it.

What Counts as Harassment or Unlawful Entry?

Persistent visits, staying on the property without your consent, or refusing to leave the grounds after being asked can be considered harassment or a breach of the right to quiet enjoyment.

Harassment by a landlord is a criminal offence under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977². You can take formal action if you feel your landlord's presence is unjustified or threatening.

Key Legislation: Your Protections as a Renter

Housing Act 1988: Covers most private tenancies in England. Gives you rights to live undisturbed and enjoy your rented home (see Housing Act 1988, Section 1).
Protection from Eviction Act 1977: Makes it an offence for landlords to harass or unlawfully evict tenants. See full Act here.

In disputes, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber - Residential Property) can hear cases about landlord behaviour and tenancy matters in England. Learn more or start an application at the official Property Chamber.

Relevant Official Forms

Form RRO1 (Rent Repayment Order Application)
If your landlord has unlawfully evicted you or harassed you (including by remaining on the property grounds without right), you may apply for a rent repayment order. Learn about Form RRO1 and download it here.
Example: If your landlord is repeatedly present outside, making you feel unsafe or forcing you out, you could use Form RRO1 to claim some of your rent back.
First-tier Tribunal Application Form
Use this for disputes relating to tenancies, such as breaches of quiet enjoyment or privacy. Details and forms can be found at the First-tier Tribunal Property Chamber.
Example: If repeated, uninvited landlord visits are impacting your well-being, you could ask the tribunal to make an order or award compensation.

If you feel your landlord's behaviour is intrusive, keep dated records and written communication. This evidence will be useful if you need to file a complaint or tribunal application.

What to Do If You Have Concerns

Politely remind your landlord of your rights, ideally in writing (email or letter).
If the issue continues, contact your local council’s housing team—they can investigate harassment or illegal activity.
For serious concerns, consider applying to the tribunal or seeking legal help.

FAQ: Landlord Presence and Tenant Privacy

Can my landlord enter my garden without my permission?
Generally, if your tenancy agreement includes the garden as part of the let, your landlord should give notice and seek consent before entering. Frequent or unjustified entry is not allowed.
What should I do if my landlord is always on the property?
Try to discuss the issue calmly with your landlord and put your concerns in writing. If this does not resolve the issue, you can contact your local council or make a complaint to the First-tier Tribunal.
Is it OK for my landlord to live in an outbuilding during my tenancy?
No, unless your agreement specifically sets out shared occupation or facilities. Typically, tenants have exclusive possession of all included areas and shared living is not allowed.
What legal action can I take for persistent landlord intrusion?
You can apply for a Rent Repayment Order (using Form RRO1) or make a claim through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for breaches of your rights.
Can the police help if I feel harassed?
If you feel threatened, contact the police or your local council, as landlord harassment is a criminal matter under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.

Key Takeaways

Your landlord cannot remain on or frequently visit the property’s grounds without good reason and your agreement.
You have legal protection and can take formal action if privacy boundaries are crossed.
Read your tenancy agreement and keep records of any problems for evidence if you need further support.

The bottom line: Your right to privacy and quiet enjoyment is protected by law in England. Support is available if you need to take action.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

GOV.UK: Private renting guidance and rights
Shelter England: Housing Advice – Free expert resources for renters
First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber - Residential Property) – For legal disputes with your landlord
Your local council’s housing options team – Find contact details on your council website for help with harassment and housing disputes