England · Guides

Roommates, lodgers and subtenants: identify the agreement

Work out who contracted with whom, who holds the deposit and which notice or deposit process applies.

Short answer

Lodgers, joint tenants and subtenants can have different deposit and notice protections. Identify whose name is on the agreement and whether the landlord lives in the property.

What to do next

  1. List every occupant and identify whose name appears on each agreement.
  2. Record who received rent and deposit payments.
  3. Check permission, notice and deposit rules for the actual arrangement.

Evidence to collect

0 / 4

Scope and limits

This is a self-service information page for renters in England. It does not review your documents, decide a dispute or replace qualified help for urgent, high-value or complex matters.

Official sources

These official pages are the starting point for this England summary. Your tenancy type and dates can change the route.

Common questions

Common questions

Why does the rental arrangement matter in shared housing?

Lodgers, joint tenants and subtenants can have different deposit and notice protections. Identify whose name is on the agreement and whether the landlord lives in the property.

Which records should I collect for “Roommates, lodgers and subtenants: identify the agreement”?

Start with: Lease or tenancy agreement and amendments, Proof of deposit, rent and other payments, Move-in inventory or condition report, Emails, messages and letters with the landlord or agent. Do not share names, addresses or account details publicly.

Private in your browser

Organise my deposit deductions

Free browser-only organiser. No document upload and no payment.

Organise my deposit deductions