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Practical guideHousing1 minute read
Sharing a home safely
Living with housemates or lodgers.
Sharing a home with housemates or living as a lodger is often cheaper and can be good company. It also needs clear agreements, especially if you are starting over after a hard time.
Before you move in
- Meet the people you will live with
- Ask about bills, cleaning, guests and quiet hours
- Get a written agreement that says what you pay and what notice is needed
- Check whether you are a tenant or a lodger, as your rights may differ
Living together
- Talk early about small problems before they grow
- Keep your important documents and medication somewhere private
- Know who to contact if something breaks
When it is not safe
If a housemate or landlord threatens you, harasses you, or demands sex or favours in place of rent, that is not acceptable. Leave if you are in danger, keep records, and get advice from a housing service or the police.
Moving on
Give the notice your agreement asks for and keep receipts for any deposit you paid.
