Lodger Agreement Template

A lodger agreement is a legal document between a homeowner (resident landlord) and a lodger who rents a room in the property where the homeowner lives. This agreement establishes clear terms and protects both parties' rights while sharing living space.

What This Template Is For

This template is designed for homeowners who want to rent out a room in their home while continuing to live there themselves. It creates a clear legal framework that defines the relationship between resident landlord and lodger, covering essential aspects like rent payments, shared facilities, and house rules. Unlike a standard tenancy agreement, this document reflects the specific nature of a lodger arrangement where the property owner shares living space with the renter.

When To Use This Template

Use this lodger agreement template when:

• You're a homeowner planning to rent out a room in your property
• You share kitchen, bathroom, or living areas with your lodger
• You need to formalize the arrangement with clear terms and conditions
• You want to establish clear boundaries and expectations
• You need to specify included services (like utilities or cleaning)

How To Customize It

Follow these steps to customize your lodger agreement:

1. Enter the full names and contact details of both parties
2. Specify the room location and any exclusive/shared areas
3. Define the rent amount, payment schedule, and included bills
4. List any additional services provided (cleaning, laundry, meals)
5. Detail house rules and quiet hours
6. Specify notice periods for termination
7. Add any specific requirements about guests or pets
8. Review and adjust the template to match your specific situation

Common Use Cases

This template is commonly used by:

• Homeowners letting a spare room for extra income
• Property owners participating in lodger schemes
• Individuals seeking to reduce mortgage costs through the Rent a Room scheme
• Professionals offering accommodation with included services

Best Practices

Follow these guidelines for a successful lodger arrangement:

• Always create a written agreement, even with informal arrangements
• Clearly define which areas are private and which are shared
• Include specific details about bills and services in the rent
• Set clear house rules about guests, noise, and shared facilities
• Keep communication channels open and documented
• Regular review of terms to ensure they remain suitable

Template Variations

Different versions of this template are available for:

• Basic room-only agreements
• All-inclusive arrangements with meals and services
• Short-term lodger agreements
• Student lodger arrangements

Success Stories

Many homeowners have successfully used this template to create clear, fair lodger arrangements. One London homeowner reported saving 40% on her mortgage payments through a well-structured lodger agreement, while another in Manchester created a harmonious shared living situation thanks to clear terms and expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions