Classify the arrangement honestly
A lodger usually occupies a room in the landlord’s main home while sharing living accommodation. If the landlord does not genuinely live there, calling the occupier a lodger will not necessarily remove tenant rights.
Check permissions from a mortgage lender, superior landlord, insurer and local authority before advertising.
Put the essentials in writing
State the room and shared areas, rent, included bills, deposit, payment date, start date, notice, keys, guests, cleaning, smoking, pets and any services. Explain when the landlord may enter the room, including emergencies.
A lodger deposit in England is not normally required to be protected in a tenancy deposit scheme, but provide a receipt, inventory and fair deduction process.
Manage a shared home, not a mini institution
Keep rules specific and proportionate to safety, cost and peaceful living. Discuss routines before move-in and schedule a check-in after the first week.
When ending the arrangement, follow the written notice and current rules for excluded occupiers. Get advice before taking action if status or reasonable notice is uncertain.
Official sources and further reading
- Renting a room in someone’s homeGOV.UK
- Lodgers: deposits and rentGOV.UK
- The Rent a Room SchemeGOV.UK · HM Revenue & Customs