estate agents entering a flat without permission

[rebecca321]

i got the keys to a rented flat on wednesday, and on the following monday morning the estate agent came and tried to let herself and a male contractor into the flat. She did call my name when she had the door wide open and she said that she sent me an email stating that they would be coming around to look at a window. I really was not impressed with this as i hadn;t read the email and being a single lady the high security was a major factor in choosing this flat, which i was very vocal about when i viewed the property. I'm thinking about taking further action but i'm not sure what to do Do you think they've broken the law? I've read on line that agents need to give 24 hours written notice but surely an email to which i did not respond to is not sufficient.

[robert551069]

I would suggest that you have a chain fitted on the inside door. This will prevent unauthorised entry while you are at home.

[bednobs]

even if they have done something illegal, what further action do you expect to be able to take? I think the next thing to do would be to make a complaint to the estate agent, and they will probably promise not to do it again

[rebecca321]

Well in fairness robert, there is a chain on the door but i didn;t think i needed to put on as i double locked it. I just really don;t like the idea that they might just come around when I'm not there and just let themselves in. I just wanted to find out if they have broken any laws as i'll be a little more prepared when i approach them about this. Is there any way i can read the post that was removed on here?

[craft1948]

Welcome back after 4 years..................

[bednobs]

there's not much point in trying to read the removed post - it's probably for a holiday in india, or a restuarant in austrailia, as people come here to spam in the middle of the night

[tonywiltshire]

Look at your tenancy agreement which both you and the landlord would have signed, this will show the rights of the landlord or their agent to enter the property, usually with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice. You are probably an Assured Shorthold tenant and as such you have the right to quiet enjoyment of your home and after reading the terms of your tenancy you believe the landlord or agent has not complied with one of the terms write to them and complain I would certainly not suggest any further action at this stage on the basis of what you say.

[joko]

if you are expecting compensation, then forget it.
best you can do is make a formal complaint and tell them that next time they must wait for confirmation reply from you before just coming round - just assuming that you knew is not good enough

explain that you will begin searching for another flat if it happens again...