Renting rooms

[Scarlett]

My sister has just split up with her partner and wants to rent out 3 rooms in her house to students. She thinks she can do it "casually" ie- no agreement but I reckon this is asking for trouble! Does anyone know if there are rules and regulations one has to do legally before becoming a landlord, even though she will still be living there?

[Hawkwalk]

you should inform the mortgage company, insurance company and council tax. Also earnings are subject to income tax.

I would recommend she ensures they have a tenancy agreement.

She can of course not do any of the above and make more money out of them but there is always a risk of being found out.

[Athley]

I think there is some rule about multiple occupancy as well regarding fire regulations and things like that. As a landlord you need to apply for a licence for multiples.

[harper]

I suggest that she contacts the student support officer at the local college/university.They will offer good advice.

[chaotica]

Never do it on a casual basis! I rented out my house like that and when they did a moonlight the place was a mess!..Also its classed as income and you have to pay tax etc on the earnings..

[wallis1007]

If she lives there then she can rent the rooms out no prob.There is a limit to what she can charge tax free. I seem to remember that this is approx �50 a week. As for renting casually, forget it, get a contract and make sure everything is nailed down.