Home / Glossary / Quiet enjoyment
What is Quiet enjoyment?
Last verified 31 October 2026
Quiet enjoyment is a tenant's right to occupy their home without unreasonable disturbance from the landlord. GOV.UK describes the tenant's right to live in the property undisturbed.
Why it matters to landlords
It does not mean landlords can never visit. It means visits follow the notice rules and happen at reasonable times. It also sits beside criminal law on harassment: section 1 of the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 makes it an offence to do acts likely to interfere with the peace or comfort of a residential occupier or their household, or to persistently withdraw or withhold services reasonably needed to live there, when done intending to make the occupier leave or give up a right or remedy.
A landlord or agent can also commit an offence by doing the same acts if they know, or have reasonable cause to believe, that the conduct is likely to make the occupier leave or give up a right. It is a defence to prove reasonable grounds for the acts or the withdrawal of services. Unlawfully depriving a residential occupier of their home is a separate offence. The safe path is to use the lawful route to end a tenancy, never changing locks, removing belongings or cutting off services.
Example
A tenant of Brian's in Walsall is behind on rent. Brian is tempted to turn off the water. He does not. He instead sends a written reminder, keeps all texts, and takes advice on the possession grounds that apply in England before serving any notice.
How to Prove Your Rental Property Is Compliant →