10. What can I do about the flatmate from hell?
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland
Most problems in shared housing are to do with a clash of lifestyles or day-to-day issues. Whether you're living with an all-night DJ, a chain-smoker, a milk thief, or a slob, other people's habits can be a nightmare!
Try to choose who you live with carefully, and agree some ground rules.
If the problems have already started, your options will usually depend on what the problem is and whose name the agreement is in. If you have separate tenancies, you may be able to ask the landlord to sort things out. But if you have a joint tenancy, each tenant's actions affect all of you. If one person isn't paying their rent, you could end up having to pay her/his share. And if they cause problems, the landlord may decide to evict you all.
In some cases, the only options may be to put up with the situation or move out. If this is the case, be sure to end your tenancy properly before you go. In extreme cases (eg if your flatmate is violent or causes a serious nuisance) the council, or even the police, may be able to help you. Get advice immediately if you are in this situation.
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