Joint tenancies
What is a joint tenancy?
You have a joint tenancy if:
you and the other tenants all signed a single tenancy agreement
your tenancy agreement has other tenants' names on it
Joint tenants are equally responsible for things like rent.
Not everyone in shared housing has a joint tenancy. You could be a lodger or have a separate tenancy for a room.
Before you sign a joint tenancy agreement
Discuss things with the landlord and other tenants before signing a joint tenancy agreement.
For example, you could try to agree what happens if:
there are unpaid bills or rent
someone causes damage to the property
one tenant wants to leave before the tenancy is up
the tenancy deposit scheme returns the whole tenancy deposit to the lead tenant
Record any agreement in writing to avoid misunderstandings in the future.
Video: 3 things to know before becoming a joint tenant
Video transcript
3 things you need to know before taking on a joint tenancy
You'll be jointly liable for rent
This means that if one joint tenant doesn't pay their share of the rent, you'll all be in rent arrears.
The landlord can ask all or any of the tenants to make up the shortfall.
You have joint control over the property
If another tenant wants to have visitors or overnight guests, you can't really stop them. It's best to sort out some 'ground rules' when you first move in.
It can be hard to get out of a fixed term contract early
You could try to find someone to replace you in the tenancy but the landlord and all the other joint tenants must agree.
Even if there's a break clause in your contract all the tenants must agree to use it.
Find out more on Shelter's website.
Our adviser explains what you need to know before you sign a joint tenancy agreement.
Last updated: 17 July 2024
