Updated October 2026
In short: Under-18s can't hold a legal tenancy in England in their own name, so most private landlords won't let directly to a 16- or 17-year-old. If a young person can't live at home, the council (children's services and housing working together) has duties to assess and support them. Options include supported lodgings, supported housing and, in some cases, a tenancy held on trust by an adult.
| Option | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Staying with family or friends | Informal arrangement, sometimes with council support | Short-term while longer-term plans are made |
| Supported lodgings | Living in a host's home with practical and emotional support | Young people needing a family setting |
| Supported housing or foyers | Accommodation with on-site support workers | Building independence skills |
| Looked-after or care leaver support | Children's services accommodation and leaving care support | Young people assessed as needing care |
| Tenancy held on trust by an adult | An adult holds the tenancy for the young person until they turn 18 | Where a guarantor or family member is willing |
Where to get help
Contact the council's children's services or housing options team. If a 16- or 17-year-old is homeless or at risk, the council must assess their needs. Organisations such as Shelter, Centrepoint and local youth services can advise and advocate.
For parents and carers
- Contact the council early if a young person may need to leave home
- Ask about mediation services to resolve family conflict
- Keep records of support offered and decisions made
- Plan for 18: guarantors, savings and references
Turning 18
At 18 a young person can sign a tenancy. Under-35s on benefits usually receive the shared accommodation rate of Local Housing Allowance, so shared housing is often the most affordable first step.
How Fraser Bond helps
- Property for supported housing providers and supported lodgings schemes
- Rooms and shared homes for young people turning 18
- Guidance for parents acting as guarantors
Related guides
Fraser Bond services: Search listings · Rental · Contact us
