What to Do Before Renting Your Property to Family or Friends

Here are some questions you should ask yourself before you rent your property to family or friends.

Do they need to sign a tenancy agreement?

Yes, yes, and yes again! They might be family, but they’re also your tenants and both parties need to know what is expected of them. For example, they might say they want to stay for 12 months but then leave after just six. Without a tenancy agreement, there’s nothing to stop them – putting your income at risk.

Should I take a deposit?

This is a personal decision that you need to make, as there’s no legal requirement for a landlord to take a deposit. However, it is a good way to protect your property and any contents from damage.

Similarly, by having a professional inventory carried out before they move in, both parties know the exact condition of the property and how it should be left.

Should I do a tenant reference check?

Asking family for personal finance details? It might make you feel awkward just thinking about it, but it’s an essential step of the rental process.

While you may think you know your family/friends’ financial background, it’s still worth making extra checks. Referencing will ensure that your potential tenant can pay the rent and highlight any issues with previous landlords.

Are there any legal issues I should be aware of if I rent to family/friends?

Not exactly, but renting to family/friends could cause problems if you have a mortgage. In fact, a lot of lenders are quite strict about this issue, and you may need to ask their permission before you move family in.

This is because the lender could be concerned that you’d charge family members less rent, or be more lenient if they didn’t pay – both of which could impact loan repayments.

Renting to friends or family can often be a great option, but it’s one you need to consider carefully and go into with your eyes wide open.

For more advice on anything and everything related to rental property in Attleborough and the surrounding area, call our lettings team today.

Tel:01953 453838 Option 4

Get in touch with us

First Name

Last Name

Your Email Address

Mobile Phone

Are you looking to

Buy

Sell

Rent

Let

Please enter message here

Please confirm that it is okay for us to contact you about this information as well as products and services. (You will always be given the right to unsubscribe at any point in the future)

Confirm

Attleborough's Semi-Detached Houses Rise by 498% in 30 Years!

Once seen as ordinary, Attleborough’s semi-detached homes have become some of the strongest performers in the market, showing remarkable long-term growth. Blending space, practicality, and affordability, semis continue to offer wide appeal. This article explores why they remain a favourite for buyers and investors alike.

CLICK HERE >

How Big Are Your Bungalows?

Bungalows aren’t built equal across the UK—sizes swing widely. Northern Ireland tops the list at 1,170 sq.ft, while Yorkshire & the Humber trails at 875 sq.ft, a 34% gap. When downsizing, would you trade your location for extra room?

CLICK HERE >

Average Value of a Terraced / Town House

Attleborough’s terraces and town houses form the heart of the local property market, offering a mix of period charm and modern convenience. From character-filled homes near the centre to contemporary builds on newer estates, they remain popular with first-time buyers, movers, and landlords alike, thanks to their versatility and enduring appeal.

CLICK HERE >

Will There Be an Attleborough House Price Crash in 2025?

In early 2023, headlines warned of a looming UK house price crash—but the reality has played out quite differently. Rather than collapse, the market has shown resilience, with modest shifts and growing stability, particularly in towns like Attleborough. As we move through 2025, fears of a crash appear increasingly unfounded.

CLICK HERE >