As a lodger, renting a room in someone else’s house or apartment, it’s important to have a tenancy agreement in place to protect your rights and responsibilities. A tenancy agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental agreement between you and your landlord.

Here are some key elements to include in a tenancy agreement for a lodger:

1. Names of the landlord and lodger

The tenancy agreement should clearly state the full names of both the landlord and the lodger, as well as their contact information.

2. Property details

Describe the property being rented, including the address, number of rooms, and any shared spaces, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

3. Rent and payment terms

List the monthly rent amount, the payment due date, and any late fees that may apply if the lodger fails to pay on time. Be sure to include information on how the lodger should make payments, such as by check or bank transfer.

4. Length of the tenancy

Specify the start and end dates of the tenancy, whether it’s a fixed-term tenancy or a periodic tenancy with no set end date.

5. Security deposit

Outline the amount of the security deposit and when it must be paid. State the conditions under which the landlord may withhold all or part of the deposit, such as for damage to the property or unpaid rent.

6. House rules

List any rules the lodger is expected to follow, such as not smoking in the house or keeping the shared spaces clean and tidy.

7. Maintenance and repairs

Explain who is responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the property, and how the lodger should report any issues.

8. Termination of the tenancy

State the conditions under which either the landlord or the lodger may end the tenancy early, and how much notice must be given.

9. Access to the property

Specify when and how the landlord may access the property, such as for maintenance or repairs, and how much notice must be given.

10. Signatures

Both the landlord and lodger should sign the tenancy agreement to indicate their agreement to the terms and conditions.

A tenancy agreement for a lodger is a legally binding contract that can protect both the landlord’s and lodger’s interests. It’s important to have a clear and comprehensive agreement in place to avoid disputes or misunderstandings during the tenancy.