Our rental was broken in to, and the real estate then changed all the locks. Now they want us to pay?

I would go to Citizens Advice and put this scenario to them. Pity you didn't have contents insurance. Tell the R/E agent that you intend to look into this matter and that you feel that you and your hubby are being treated unfairly. Put this in writing as this will be important if there is a dispute on who foots the bill.I believe that you have been treated unfairly in this situation. Typical of R/E agents.