changing locks

Tenancy Deposits

I had the same situation a few years ago, before the new deopsit schemes. Tenant left owing last months rent, so I assume he left the deposit to cover the last month's rent. I had no contact with the tenant whatsoever, and I lost my keys. I left it a month, then 'let myself in'. He was 2 months behind on the rent. The property had been emptied of all furniture. However there were some tins of food in the cupboards and a few items of clothing lying around. To be honest it looked as if these items were not wanted by the tenant, and simply left. I removed all the items, changed the locks and re let the flat after a good clean up.
I have since heard that if there is food or clothing items in the property, that it constitutes someone still living there, and what I had actually done amounted to breaking and enetring!
Therefore tread carefully, and make sure the property is vacant. Maybe take an independant witness, like a letting agent, otherwise you may find yourself charged with breaking and entering and criminal damage if the tenant comes back! Law is an ass.....unless its been changed in the last couple of years....