Tenants are in danger of losing their homes if they sublet. Writer and actor Leo Cassini used Airbnb to let a spare room in his central London apartment, which he had rented for 13 years. Leo explained that a work project had failed, and he subsequently used Airbnb to tide him over financially.
Leo stated that he always paid the high £1,800 a month rent on time, and had done so for 13 years. He went on to explain that the flat was originally unfurnished, and he had maintained it himself. Leo also stated he didn’t think he was subletting: as he was always living in the house. After discovering this, his landlord enforced an eviction notice within two weeks.
Research conducted by the Telegraph Money details that only two out of nine mainstream mortgage lenders would allow Airbnb type lettings without prior consent (Lloyds, Metro Bank).
Renting out your property could breach leases, along with clauses in your mortgage and/or insurance policies. Leases can prevent you from letting, subletting or licensing the flat, especially if you do so without the landlords consent. If you sublet without telling your landlord, you risk compensation fees and eviction.
Housing minister Brandon Lewis released a statement on the issue:
Tenants should be able to ask for permission to sublet their home without expecting a blanket refusal every time – but landlords also have the right to know who is living in their property.
If you have any queries regarding any Landlord & Tenant issues, please do not hesitate to call our Commercial Property specialist Steve Neale on 0113 284 5019 or via email on steve.neale@isonharrison.co.uk.
