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

10 Year Local House Prices on a Map of Attleborough

Over the past decade, Attleborough’s property market has painted a vibrant picture of change. Our latest map reveals how different parts of the town have grown — from modest rises in some areas to striking surges in others. Discover how your street fits into Attleborough’s evolving story of house prices and local value.

CLICK HERE >

Are You Ready to Sell in the Next 3 Months? Here’s How to Win

Thinking of putting your home on the market soon? If you’re aiming to list within the next 90 days, this guide is for you. Here’s how to sharpen your strategy so you don’t just sell, you get the sale you want.

CLICK HERE >

Legislation Changes That Impact Landlords

With ongoing reforms and rising compliance demands across the UK, managing a rental property alone is becoming increasingly complex. Here’s why professional management now matters more than ever.

CLICK HERE >

Percentage Of Chances of Selling

Thinking of selling your Attleborough home? You’re not alone—but not every property finds its buyer. In today’s changing market, success comes down to realistic pricing, good presentation, and the right marketing strategy to help your home stand out and move.

CLICK HERE >