Landlord who entered tenant’s home and demanded they leave prosecuted

The landlord pleaded guilty at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court Photo cred: Google Maps

A landlord who entered their tenant’s house and made them leave pleaded guilty to illegal eviction.

Nicole May, of Old Trafford, Manchester, pleaded guilty to illegal eviction on 14 February at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court.

May was fined £461, ordered to pay costs of £300 and a victim surcharge of £184.

The tenants were forced to leave their rented home on Moorland road, Splott on 28 May, 2024 after the landlord and members of her family entered the house without permission and demanded that they leave.

Just a few weeks earlier, Ms May had sent a WhatsApp message to the tenants asking them to leave the property, but failed to serve the correct legal notice.

Cabinet member for housing and communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne, said: “The tenants involved in this case have been left very troubled by the whole experience but we hope that by highlighting situations like this, other tenants will be aware of their rights and the importance of seeking assistance from the council.  

“This prosecution sends a strong message to unscrupulous landlords that the council is not afraid to take legal action to safeguard tenants and their wellbeing.”

Tenants in private rented accommodation who are threatened with, or facing, illegal eviction can contact the council for advice and guidance on 029 20 570 750 or email housing.solutions@cardiff.gov.uk.