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Dealing With a Violent or Abusive Tenant

Safety first, then the right legal route.

Dealing With a Violent or Abusive Tenant Property Legal, Risk & Compliance

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Landlords · Possession

Violent or abusive tenants

999in danger
Records& evidence
Ground 7AASB
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In short: If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 999. Don't visit alone and keep a record of every incident, including police reference numbers, messages and witness statements. Possession for serious anti-social behaviour can be sought under the mandatory ground for serious offences or breaches of injunctions, and the discretionary ground for nuisance and annoyance, where notice periods are short and claims can start immediately in serious cases. Never use force, change locks or cut off utilities. A solicitor can also seek an injunction.

Frequently asked questions

Can I evict immediately?

Not without a court order, but serious ASB cases move faster.

Should I involve the council?

Yes, its ASB team can help.

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