The private rented sector landlord had used Facebook to publicise his tenant's rent arrears to her friends and family. He also included personal details such as her address and place of employment in the post - which he subsequently deleted. However the tenant complained to the council's Housing Enforcement team.

The complaint was investigated by the council's Landlord & Tenant Liaison officer and this resulted in the landlord admitting to the harassment and accepting a formal caution. This meant that although there was enough evidence for the council to take forward a prosecution, court action was avoided by the early admission of guilt. However, the tenant herself is now free to start a civil action.

In addition, the landlord may no longer have the fit & proper person status that would allow him to apply for and be granted either an HMO or a Selective licence, in Coventry, to operate a rental property.

Cllr. David Welsh, Cabinet member for Housing and Communities, when pointing out that Coventry council would do all it could to protect tenants from illegal eviction or harassment said "We want to ensure homes in the private rented sector are properly managed. Tenants should not be unfairly treated. Our Housing Enforcement team is here to help when needed."

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