Domestic abuse and landlord responsibilities

Why it matters

Evicting a household because of antisocial behaviour caused by a perpetrator can penalise the survivor and expose you to challenge.

Legal requirements

• Antisocial behaviour caused by a perpetrator should not lead to action against the survivor.
• Repairs to secure a property after forced entry remain the landlord's responsibility.
• Personal information about a survivor must be handled with particular care.
• A joint tenant leaving does not automatically end their liability, which needs careful handling.

Common mistakes

• Telling a perpetrator where a survivor has moved to.
• Refusing to change locks quickly because of cost.
• Serving notice on the whole household in response to police attendance.
• Recording sensitive details in shared systems accessible to others.

Practical guidance

• Change locks promptly when asked and record the request and action.
• Keep survivor contact details restricted and never disclose a new address.
• Signpost to the national domestic abuse helpline and the local authority housing team.
• Take advice before any possession step where abuse is a factor.

Practical security measures

Fast, low cost measures make a real difference: replacing cylinders, adding a door chain or viewer, repairing damaged frames, fitting exterior lighting and, in shared buildings, reviewing entry systems. Treat these as emergency repairs. The cost is small compared with the risk, and a survivor who feels supported is far more likely to sustain the tenancy.

Tenancy options

Options include a transfer to a sole tenancy, agreement to end a joint tenancy, or supporting a move with a reference. Each has consequences for liability and deposit, so document what is agreed and by whom. Where a court order excludes one occupier, ask for a copy and follow it precisely, including on access and key handling.