UK Landlord Forum / Life

I am hoping someone will be able help with this.

Last October after 4 months of my then landlord illegally trying to evict me (he had no grounds and issued the section 21 with wrong date), accusing me of damage (claimed a wardrobe was broken), threatening me with bailiffs without any court order and writing threatening emails and texts, I also realised the LL had forged my signature on the tenancy agreement, I moved out (during the checkout i had to call the police as the LL became aggressive and tried to let his 'bailiff' into the property). The LL kept my deposit and I made dispute and the LL has decided to take me to court, which no problem as I know I cannot lose (I have kept all emails, texts, I have date coded photos and have all my rent payment receipts). The problem is I registered with the local council to get housing at the beginning of the year, the council asked my ex LL for a reference; in which he claimed that I am in rent arrears with him, this is a lie and can prove it!.  But it has been affecting my chances of getting housed. 

Does anyone have any advice on what course of action I should take?
thanks in advance

Make an appointment with a Solicitor who specialises in Landlord and Tenancy issues. You need professional advice.

If the proof you have not suitable for the Council?

Hi thanks for the quick response.

There are no solicitors who specialize in tenancy disputes in my local area, and I have used up all the free advice I can get from local solicitors. I am currently homeless and unable to work, so there is no way I can afford to hire legal council (I am having defend myself in court).

The council have said it MIGHT help my case if I can prove my ex LL lied. The council has refused my request to have a copy of the reference the LL wrote. And I reckon he has accused me of causing damage in the reference too, but without being able to read what I am accused I am going to find it difficult to defend myself. What annoys me the most is: the LL hasn't (and doesn't have to) provide proof of his claims against me to the council.

Has the Council admitted to you that the reference is [negatively, one assumes] affecting your chances of getting housed?

I mean, you suspecting that and having that confirmed are actually quite different things. I am not saying you're wrong, just curious how much information the Council give away.

The council has admitted that the bad reference has affected my chances of getting housed (although not in writing), and according to the information on the councils website I will never be offered a place.

Your case seems awfully odd.
I'm unsure why would the council be so reserved, when you say you have concrete proof about your landlord's dirty business. They must know better than to trust just somebody's word for it.

I wouldn't worry about the courts. It's best if you have somebody that can put the correct wording for your case, but if you have the legitimate proof you claim you do, the judge should resolve the matter quickly.
As far as I see the matter, you can even counter sue for threats and harassment.   

I would really go to Shelter for this. It looks like the perfect case for their help. They will provide you with legal help and assistance, as well as, I think, temporary accommodation, so you're not on the streets.

Hope this helps,
Audrey Wright
Move out Mates - End of tenancy cleaning London.