Lodging

There are many different types of lodging. This may be occupying a room in the landlord’s house or subletting with another tenant.

Tenants sharing a landlord's house, have some protection and rights, but they are not considered to have the same rights as tenants with a tenancy agreement.

Landlords can typically enter the shared areas without notice, but they must obtain permission and provide reasonable notice before entering the lodger's room.

If you share your accommodation with your landlord you are likely to be an excluded occupier. An excluded occupier is only entitled to 'reasonable notice' before being asked to leave a property and a court order may not be required to ask you to leave.

If the landlord does not occupy the premises as their main residence, occupiers may be entitled to additional rights and protections. The rules are also different for Property guardians and those with Licence Agreements.

It is recommended to get a written contract so it's clear what you've agreed, especially in relation to bills, notice periods and cooking facilities etc. Specialist advice may be required to ensure the correct type of contract is used.

Irrespective of the type of occupation or level of rent, the property must be safe and free from hazards.