A landlord has been ordered to repay over £12,000 to a former tenant after unlawfully evicting her from his rental property in London. The First Tier Property Tribunal found that Chris Singellos had illegally locked the tenant out following serious issues with the property.
Background of the Case
The tenant, who lived in Fairfax Mews, faced significant challenges in her rented accommodation. By November 2023, a collapsed ceiling and a malfunctioning boiler rendered the property uninhabitable. Water leaks had severely damaged her living space, prompting her to communicate with Singellos regarding the tenancy.
Tenant’s Request for Tenancy Termination
In her email, the tenant requested to terminate the lease and expressed her need to vacate the premises. She mentioned staying at a friend’s place until she could retrieve her remaining possessions, which were damaged due to the property’s condition.
Unlawful Lockout Events
- The tenant attempted to retrieve her belongings in early December.
- On her first visit, she discovered that the bedroom door was locked.
- During her second attempt, she found that the locks had been changed, preventing her access.
Legal Proceedings and Tribunal Decision
On December 10, 2023, Singellos formally notified her of her eviction using a clause in the tenancy agreement. However, the tribunal established that she had not surrendered her tenancy and had been unlawfully deprived of access to her home.
Landlord’s Justification
Singellos claimed he believed she would not return to the property. Nevertheless, the judge ruled that he had not executed a lawful eviction. The tribunal’s decision highlighted his negligence in addressing the tenant’s concerns regarding ongoing water leaks, which contributed to the property’s deterioration.
Compensation Ordered
The tribunal ruled in favor of the tenant, leading to a compensation order of £12,555. This amount was deemed necessary due to the distress caused by the unlawful eviction and property issues. Additionally, there was a 10% reduction in the Rent Repayment Order.
This case underscores the importance of landlord responsibilities and tenant rights in ensuring safe and habitable living conditions.
