Can a landlord evict without going to court?

In England, it is unlawful for a landlord to evict a residential tenant without first obtaining a possession order from the court. This applies even if the tenancy has ended, the tenant has rent arrears, or the landlord has served a valid Section 8 notice. The correct process is: serve the appropriate notice, wait for it to expire, and then, if the tenant has not left, apply to the court for a possession order. Only once the court has granted the order — and, if necessary, a warrant for possession has been issued — can enforcement take place, and only by a county court bailiff or High Court Enforcement Officer. A landlord who attempts to evict a tenant without following this process may be committing the criminal offence of unlawful eviction under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. This can include changing the locks, removing the tenant's belongings, cutting off utilities, or using harassment or intimidation to pressure the tenant to leave. The tenant can apply to the court for an injunction to be reinstated and can claim damages. Local authorities also have powers to prosecute landlords for unlawful eviction. If you believe you are being unlawfully evicted, contact your local council's housing department or seek urgent legal advice immediately.