landlord query

[kelseyjade]

is it legal for my auntie to be my landlord?

[boxtops]

Yes, of course it is. You will be her tenant. You need a proper tenancy agreement for it to be legal.

[kelseyjade]

is it the same if housing benefit is involved? as i've just lost my job and until i get another will need to claim HB

[boxtops]

I can't answer that part but I am sure that someone else will.

[Eve]

http://www.dwp.gov.uk...efit/housing-benefit/

Hope this helps.

[mrbumblebee]

It used to be if your landlord was a relation housing benefit won't be paid, I don't know if this has changed.

[joko]

it is perfectly acceptable - my father is my landlord and i have claimed housing benefit

the belief that its not allowed is something of a myth

[cathfromsaron]

unless you can demonstrate she has prevented you from being homeless, you may have some problems claiming HB these days!

[joko]

that is nonsense cath

there is no legal requirement for an auntie to give their relative any special treatment, like cheap or free rent, just because they are related...
its a business arrangement just like any other landlord/tennant situation...

kelsey you can claim (as long as she doesnt live with you...? then you would be a lodger and different rules apply)

[kelseyjade]

Well that's more than answered my question, thanks everyone :)