Lodgers insurance

No, there are legalities in place to protect Landlords and lodgers. A new member of your household, who isn’t related to you, brings new risks. For this reason you must inform your mortgage lender and home insurance provider, and in some cases the local council, of your change in living circumstances.

It is generally recommended that all live in landlords have a contract with their lodger. This is to lay out the terms and conditions of the lease, similar to a tenancy agreement. It is also recommended that an inventory documenting personal belongings as well as the current condition of the property is drawn up at the beginning of a new lease.

Technically, yes, anyone can rent a room out of their house but there are laws which must be adhered to. It is now law to check a person’s immigration status before letting a room in the UK. If you are a tenant who would like to sublet then you must seek permission from your landlord.

As the landlord you are responsible for the building insurance and your own contents insurance. This does not extend to your lodger's belongings, so they should seek their own contents cover.

Under the government's Rent a Room scheme you can earn up to £7,500 tax free a year from renting out a room in your house. Nowadays many lodgers are simply young professionals who cannot afford to buy. They are looking for a good standard of accommodation in a high demand area.