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 our products and services. By confirming, you also agree to the use of cookies to enhance your experience. (You will always have the right to unsubscribe or manage your cookie preferences at any point in the future.)

Confirm

The 5 Year & 21 Week Attleborough Itch That’s Driving Half of all Home Moves.

In Attleborough, the flow of daily life often sparks a quiet moment of reflection about whether a home still suits the way things are evolving. As routines shift and priorities grow, a gentle urge to seek a better fit begins to emerge, revealing how closely our lives and our homes remain connected.

CLICK HERE >

Buying a Home in Attleborough Feels Risky. Waiting is even riskier.

Many would-be buyers hesitate, waiting for calmer times before taking the plunge. Yet history shows that waiting often costs more than acting. While renters lose money monthly, owners build equity and stability. The market rewards time, not timing—progress starts the moment you buy.

CLICK HERE >

Superb 2-Bedroom End Terrace in Central Attleborough with Garden, Parking & Fresh Décor.

An attractive and well-presented 2-bedroom end terrace, ideally positioned in central Attleborough. Recently redecorated throughout, the property offers a spacious lounge with French doors to a 30ft enclosed garden, a fitted kitchen, modern bathroom, and allocated parking, combining comfort with convenience.

CLICK HERE >

Thinking of changing your estate agent this autumn?

If your home has been sitting on the market with no progress, you’re not stuck. Switching estate agents is easier than you think, if you understand your contract and prepare properly. Here’s the truth, the timelines and the process to relaunch with impact.

CLICK HERE >