Updated October 2026
In short: a partner or friend can stay with you as a guest without being on the tenancy. If they're moving in permanently, though, you'll usually need your landlord's consent, the landlord must check their right to rent, and you may need to update your benefits and council tax. Whether they should be added as a joint tenant is a separate decision with pros and cons.
Check your tenancy agreement
Most agreements say who may live in the property and require consent for anyone else to move in. Breaching that clause could give the landlord grounds to take action, so ask first. Landlords shouldn't unreasonably refuse a partner moving in, but they can consider occupancy limits, licensing and affordability.
Options when someone moves in
1. Permitted occupier
They live with you with the landlord's written consent but aren't a tenant. You remain solely responsible for the rent and the tenancy. They have limited rights if the relationship ends.
2. Joint tenant
You're both named on the tenancy and both have full rights and responsibilities. You're "jointly and severally liable", so each of you can be pursued for all of the rent. Ending a joint periodic tenancy is usually possible by one joint tenant giving notice, which ends it for both. Bear that in mind.
3. Lodger (if you're a resident landlord)
If you own your home, different rules apply. Lodgers have fewer protections.
What the landlord must do
Landlords in England must check the right to rent of every adult who lives in the property as their main home, including people not named on the tenancy. That's one reason landlords need to know who lives there.
Benefits, council tax and bills
- Universal Credit: if you live with a partner, you must claim as a couple, which changes the award. Report it promptly to avoid overpayments.
- Council tax: you'll lose the single-person discount if another adult lives with you.
- Energy and broadband: agree how bills will be split.
If the relationship ends
Sole tenant? You can ask your partner to leave, but if they won't, get advice. Joint tenants? Neither can simply lock the other out. Specialist advice is important, especially where domestic abuse is involved. Councils and charities can help urgently.
This guide gives general information for tenants in England and isn't legal advice. For your own situation, contact Shelter, Citizens Advice or a housing solicitor.
