Retired carpenter faces eviction after 22 years despite home improvements. Tim Harman, a retired carpenter, is facing a distressing situation.
He is being evicted from the charming cottage he has called home for over two decades.
Harman’s predicament has sparked outrage. He is contending with the aristocratic owners of the Glynde Estate, who are demanding that he vacate the property.
Background of the dispute of retired, Harman and his family
The retired, Harman, 68, has lived in the flint cottage located in Tarring Neville, East Sussex, since March 2002.
Initially paying a modest rent of £550 ($726) per month, his rent has gradually increased to £920 ($1.214).
Despite this rise, his rent remains significantly below the market rate for similar properties in the area.
Throughout his tenure, Harman has invested approximately £25,000 ($33,000) of his own money to enhance the cottage.
His improvements include a new bathroom, doors, re-panelled walls, skirting boards, and extensive landscaping.
Although the estate covered the cost of a new kitchen, Harman’s personal contributions have greatly improved the property.
Eviction and tenant condition
In May 2024, Harman received an eight-week notice to vacate the premises.
Additionally, the estate’s owners claim they need the property for farm workers.
The eviction notice has left Harman struggling to secure alternative accommodation. He also faces the possibility of legal proceedings if an agreement cannot be reached.
The Glynde Estate, owned by Francis Anthony Brand, the sixth Viscount Hampden, encompasses some of Sussex’s most picturesque villages.
Additionally, it is renowned for its scenic beauty and historic significance.
Harman’s eviction seems to be part of a broader strategy to lease properties at higher rates.
New tenants are being offered similar cottages for significantly more money.
Harman responded to the incident
Harman has expressed his frustration and disappointment at the treatment he has received.
‘I pay an affordable rent and it does work out cheaper than some neighbours who are paying over £1300-a-month for similar sized properties – but I’ve been a model tenant who has always paid on time and more than looked after the place.
‘At my age, I don’t want to have to leave and find somewhere else.
‘There’s been no mediation. They haven’t even approached me to see if I’d be willing to pay more rent. I’ve been offered nowhere else to live.
‘They don’t seem to care if I’m made homeless. It’s disgusting.’ He added.
He feels the eviction is unjust, particularly given his long history as a responsible tenant.
While, his substantial investments in the property.
Harman has not been offered any mediation or alternative housing options, which he finds deeply troubling.
Before residing in his current cottage, Harman rented two other properties from the estate.
These rentals were under the previous Viscount Hampden, Anthony David Brand.
The previous lord had offered Harman the cottage due to his interest and history with the estate.
Mr Harman said: ‘The previous Lord Hampden offered me this cottage because he knew I was keen on it.
I also installed a whole new kitchen myself – although in fairness the Estate paid for that.
‘But I’ve put a lot of love and work into the cottage and improved it no end.
‘I pay an affordable rent and it does work out cheaper than some neighbours who are paying over £1300-a-month for similar sized properties – but I’ve been a model tenant who has always paid on time and more than looked after the place.
‘At my age, I don’t want to have to leave and find somewhere else.
Tim Harman’s eviction has highlighted issues of fairness and tenant rights.
This is especially relevant in the context of long-term leases and significant personal investment in rental properties.
Harman’s situation remains a poignant example of the complexities surrounding property management and tenant relations.