Nearly Half of Tenants Sublet Without Landlord Permission

According to a new report from the National Landlords Association, nearly half of all tenants who sublet their property do not get permission to do so from their landlord.

The report, which was released around the same time the government announced plans to crack down on unauthorised subletting, found 32 per cent of tenants have asked their landlord about subletting their property, while 63 per cent say they have never asked. It also revealed that 22 per cent of subletting requests were permitted by the landlord, while 26 per cent of requests were declined.

Carolyn Uphill, Chairman of the National Landlords Association, said:

"These findings indicate that subletting is not common in private rented homes, but worryingly that where it does happen, much of it takes place behind landlords' backs, without their knowledge or permission.

"This isn't something apparently harmless, like putting your flat on AirBnB while you are on holiday. We are talking about individuals looking to deceive their landlord and maximise their personal gains at the expense of proper property management standards and the risk of others. It not only increases the cost of renting for the unwitting sub-tenants, it affects their rights and can reduce security of tenure."

The recently announced government proposals included plans to introduce minimum room sizes, which often results in overcrowding and cramped conditions.

If you're interested in buying or selling a residential home or apartment, contact our property solicitors on 0800 810 1010 for advice.

Whitestone Solicitors

Property Solicitors