Should I include tenant’s partner on the tenancy agreement?

Should I include tenant’s partner on the tenancy agreement?

9:24 AM, 9th August 2024, About 10 hours ago 4

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Hi, in need of some advice. I rent out a flat in a university town, very often to international students.

I have an international student arriving in September who will be paying 6 months’ rent in advance (for the initial tenancy of six months which will be renewed all being well). My only concern is that her British boyfriend is joining her and I have some niggling concerns about him due to something I found out about him on social media.

My concern is that if after the initial six-month let he proves to be difficult, and being mindful of increased tenancy rights under new legislation, I might find myself in a difficult situation i.e. non payment of rent etc. Would it be better if he was omitted from the tenancy agreement?

What rights would he have in this situation?

Thanks,

Helen


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Graham Bowcock

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10:54 AM, 9th August 2024, About 9 hours ago

There's a bit to unpick here.

In general it's good to get any adult living in the property named on the tenancy agreement. That way you have a contract with them. If you only named the girl and she vacates, leaving boyfriend in place, it will be harder to deal with.

You will need to do right to rent and I suggest you reference him properly.

Of course, if you think he's going to be there anyway and you're not happy, maybe pull out now?

Ian Narbeth

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11:11 AM, 9th August 2024, About 8 hours ago

I agree with Graham and make sure the tenancy includes a clause that they are jointly and severally liable for the rent and to perform all the covenants in the lease.

Phil rosenberg

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11:14 AM, 9th August 2024, About 8 hours ago

Yes

Your insurance and mortgage probably require it.

If he's not on the tenancy, you can't chase him for rent or repairs - you're relying on chasing the tenant only.

A tenency agreement is entered into jointly and severally. When one tenant wants to leave the only way they can do so is to end the whole tenancy. Notice from one tenant ends the tenancy for all tenants.

So, if after 6 months she wants to move out, her notice will end the tenancy for her and her boyfriend and you will be able to chase both of them for missed rent or costs of damages if you choose.

Marlena Topple

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11:20 AM, 9th August 2024, About 8 hours ago

If you are prepared to allow him to live at the property then he should be included on the lease. He should be subject to all normal referencing and checks. I personally would not rent to anyone I had concerns about particularly in the current climate. In addition unless he is a student, the property becomes liable for Council Tax if a non student lives there although you might be eligible for a 25% exemption for her. That would need checking.

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