If you are a tenant in the UK, it is essential to understand your rights and obligations under your tenancy agreement. One of the terms that you might come across is a `permitted occupier.` This refers to someone who is allowed to live in the property but is not legally responsible for paying rent or upholding the tenancy agreement. In this article, we will discuss what a permitted occupier tenancy agreement is and what it entails.
What is a Permitted Occupier?
A permitted occupier is an individual who is allowed to live in a rental property, along with the tenant, without taking any responsibility for the rent or any other obligations under the tenancy agreement. The tenant and the landlord can agree to add a permitted occupier to their tenancy agreement, as long as they comply with the terms of the agreement.
Permitted Occupier Tenancy Agreement
A permitted occupier tenancy agreement is an agreement between the tenant, landlord, and the permitted occupier themselves. It outlines the terms and conditions of the occupancy. It is essential to have a written agreement to ensure that all parties understand their rights and obligations.
Types of Permitted Occupiers
There are different types of individuals who can be considered as permitted occupiers. The most common are:
1. Children: A tenant can add their children to the tenancy agreement as permitted occupiers.
2. Family members or friends: A tenant can add their family members or friends to the tenancy agreement as permitted occupiers. This is usually done when the tenant wants to share the property with someone but does not want them to take on any legal responsibilities.
3. Caretakers or cleaners: A landlord can add a caretaker or cleaner to the tenancy agreement as a permitted occupier. This allows the person to live on the property and perform their duties without taking on any legal responsibilities.
4. Lodgers: A tenant can take on a lodger as a permitted occupier. This allows the lodger to live on the property without taking on any legal responsibilities.
Rights of Permitted Occupiers
Permitted occupiers have limited rights compared to tenants. They are not legally responsible for paying rent or upholding the tenancy agreement. They are also not protected under the Housing Act, which means they do not have any statutory rights. However, they do have some basic rights, such as:
1. The right to occupy the property as agreed.
2. The right to live in a property that is safe and secure.
3. The right to have their privacy respected.
Responsibilities of Permitted Occupiers
Permitted occupiers have some responsibilities under their tenancy agreement. These include:
1. Taking care of the property and keeping it clean.
2. Behaving in a reasonable and responsible manner.
3. Not causing any damage to the property.
4. Not disturbing the peace of the neighbourhood.
5. Complying with any other terms of the tenancy agreement.
In conclusion, a permitted occupier tenancy agreement is an agreement between the tenant, landlord, and the permitted occupier. It outlines the terms and conditions of the occupancy. Permitted occupiers have limited rights compared to tenants, but they do have some basic rights outlined in the agreement. It is essential to understand your rights and obligations as a permitted occupier before signing any agreements.