Housing Act 1988: Primary legislation governing Assured and Assured Shorthold Tenancies in England and Wales. Sets out the framework for most modern residential tenancies.

Protection from Eviction Act 1977: Makes illegal eviction a criminal offense and provides protection for residential occupiers. Prohibits unlawful eviction and harassment of occupiers.

Housing Act 1996: Updates and amends previous housing legislation, particularly regarding tenancy rights and local authority housing duties.

Criminal Law Act 1977: Contains provisions regarding illegal eviction and harassment, making it a criminal offense to unlawfully deprive residential occupiers of their premises.

24-Hour Notice Limitations: 24-hour eviction notices are only legal in specific circumstances: for squatters with Interim Possession Orders, licensees with reasonable notice, or domestic violence cases with court orders.

Standard Notice Requirements: Most residential tenants under Assured Shorthold Tenancies require minimum 2 months' notice period. Shorter periods are typically illegal.

Illegal Eviction Warning: Self-help eviction (forcing tenants out) is illegal and can result in criminal charges. Proper legal procedures must be followed.

Court Order Requirement: Most evictions require a court order before a tenant can be legally removed, even after notice period has expired.