Legal Advice

Summary

Criminal prosecution of private landlords for unlawful eviction of tenants or harassment; general advice to such tenants at risk of eviction or suffering from harassment concerning their rights. The Council may also be able to negotiate a settlement with the landlord. However the Council is not able to take legal action for the tenant in court.

Eligibility

Tenants of private sector landlords. It is not available to Council tenants.

Procedure

A complaint may be made by the affected tenant to the Borough Secretary's Department. Alternatively, the tenant may approach an organisation such as Citizen's Advice Bureau which will make a referral.

Helplines

01226 773030 or 773032

Charges-Fees

No charge is made.

Opening Times-Locations

9 am to 5 pm Mondays to Thursday9 am to 4.30 pm FridaysLegal Services, Central Offices, Kendray Street, Barnsley

How the customer can help

The tenant will need to give details of:

• How he/she may be contacted
• The address of the property
• The landlords name and address
• The circumstances of the eviction/harassment
• His or her tenancy agreement

The tenant may be asked to attend the Council's offices for an interview to provide or expand on the above information. The tenant will need to make a statement and attend court as a witness if there is a prosecution.

Leaflets

Not currently available.

Legislation

Protection from Eviction Act 1977

Response Times-Next Steps

A prompt response will be given. The Council will evaluate the information to ascertain whether there is evidence of an offence having been committed. The Council will use the information to give the tenant appropriate advice on their rights.