Lodging
Renting Rooms In Someone’s Home
Before arranging a let, here are some points to consider:
- Both parties should agree length of let
- If no term is agreed, the letting period will be a periodic tenancy, and the term will be whatever period the rent is payable on (usually weekly or monthly)
- There doesn’t have to be an agreement in writing, unless the tenancy is a fixed term of more than 3 years. However, it is advisable to have one in case of disagreements that may arise later
- The landlord is free to agree the rent with you to whatever level he decides is appropriate. Before agreeing make sure it is affordable
- It is usual for the landlord to ask for a rent in advance, e.g. at the start of the month if it is paid monthly
- The landlord may also want a deposit and reference
- If the let is periodic or completely open-ended, then unless the parties have made arrangements for rent review, the landlord can increase the rent from term to term as he or she wishes
- The landlord is legally obliged to provide you with a rent book if the rent is paid weekly. Even where there is no requirement to provide a rent book, it is advisable to ask for a receipt to avoid disagreements later
- Check with the landlord what is covered in the rent, i.e. Council Tax, domestic bills etc, to avoid unexpected bills later
- If you are on a low wage or claiming other benefits, you may be able to get housing benefit from the local authority to cover part or all of the rent
- The landlord is free to decide what facilities are provided subject to the basic requirements of general housing law: e.g. access to kitchen, washing and toilet facilities should be provided
- Repairs are the responsibility of the landlord unless they occurred from damage or neglect caused by the tenant
- The landlord must carry out an annual safety check on all gas appliance to the CORGI standard. The landlord must also ensure all electrical systems or appliances are safe to use
- If you wish to end a periodic tenancy, it would end on the last day of a period (usually the day rent is due)
For more detailed information on renting a room in someone’s house, a guide can be sent to you. Contact the Housing Options Team if you would like a copy of this guide.