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Things to consider when renting

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3. Licensees

Licensees have far fewer legal rights that tenants. Your landlord does not have to go to court to evict you and you may not be given much notice to leave.

You may be a licensee if:

  • you are staying with friends, or family
  • you do not pay rent
  • you are staying in a hostel
  • your landlord lives in the property with you, where you are considered a lodger
  • you are in student halls accommodation
  • your landlord provides services to you, such as cleaning, providing meals, or a support worker

It can be difficult to work out what agreement is in place and if it is legally correct so if you are unsure whether you have a license or an Assured Shorthold Tenancy, contact your local Housing Options Team for further advice.