UK Landlord Forum / Life

I have let a property to a foreign family, the agreement states 2 adults and 1 minor but there is evidence that 6 adults and 2 minors are living in the property.  I work away so cannot carry out checks, there is no letting agent but a family member has been dealing with the tenant and tells me that there is 3 cars parked outside the property at most times and that she has seen different adults and children in the property for a number of weeks.  This information is also verified by neighbours.  When challenged the tenant says these other people do not live there, they are "just visiting".

I have instructed my caretaker to keep a written record of her suspicions and why e.g. seen 3 cars parked, unknown adult female answered door in pyjamas.

I am wary of the "just visiting" defence and how I can prove breach of tenancy agreement?

Tenant pays rent ok but I am concerned about wear and tear with this many people living there, it is a fully furnished property with fitted kitchen and appliances.

Any advise very much appreciated as I am an amateur forced landlord so have never dealt with anything like this before.

I had something similar years ago.The tenants were a foreign couple,with one relative sharing.The managing agents were useless,and the first I knew of the problem was when the Council wrote,threatening me with a hefty fine for overcrowding.The neighbour had complained that nine people were living there all the time,with occasional others.The back window and door were left open for them to come and go,like a dosshouse!

Luckily for me,a visit to the house by Council officials scared them off very promptly,and I gave the remaing tenants notice to quit.If the minors you refer to are young kids,there are laws relating to shared bedrooms with adults and siblings.I would request the council to investigate.Also,your relative can give 24 hours notice to visit,it would be hard to hide the evidence of so many living there.She should take a companion,and take photos that could back up your case.

If they are on a periodic lease I would issue Section 21,you really don't want tenants like that,rent or no rent.Section 8 would apply,but could be trickier if they are crafty enough to play the system. Good luck-I have been there.

Wouldn't all their possessions be there too if they are living at the property? Wouldn't that be grounds for breach of contract? Or you could go the Wonga route and setup a fake bailiff (or repossession) company to scare them off! Not sure of the ethical ramifications of that though!