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Letting Someone Stay in Your Home Without Paying Rent

Usually a licence, which is easier to end.

Letting Someone Stay in Your Home Without Paying Rent Residential Property Services in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Homeowners · Occupiers

Rent-free occupiers

Licencenot tenancy
Reasonablenotice
Lenderconsent?
Agreein writing
In short: If a friend or relative lives in your home rent-free and you also live there, they are usually a licensee rather than a tenant, with fewer rights, and can be asked to leave with reasonable notice. If they live there alone or pay something, a tenancy could arise, which is harder to end. Put the arrangement in writing, tell your mortgage lender and insurer if required, and consider council tax discounts and benefits. If someone refuses to leave, get legal advice before acting.

Frequently asked questions

Is a rent-free guest a tenant?

Usually not, if you live there too.

How do I ask them to leave?

Give reasonable notice in writing.

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