Flat Sharing

DietIrnBru

Previously posted that I was looking for advice about flat sharing in Leeds. I'm back again given the soundedness of that previous advice .

Well I now have one lined up. Thinking about the nitty gritty of it all. Does anyone know the status of contents insurance when it is a shared property? Also, if it becomes a joint tenancy - between me and the guy sharing - would I be liable if he didn't meet his part of the rent?

Many thanks

HappyMJ

If you are getting a joint tenancy then your contents insurance can cover both of you as one household. However, a claim by either party will need to be declared by both of you when seeking future insurance quotes in any property so not sure whether you would rather just self insure instead.

In a joint tenancy you are both considered jointly liable for the whole rent payment. One of you should take responsibility for making the rent payment each month to the landlord and provide proof back that the payment has actually been made.

You are also both liable for the whole council tax bill. You can't split that bill. The gas, electric and water bills tend to be in one name only and whoever names appears on the bill is responsible for ensuring payment. My suggestion is to start paying in advance as soon as possible by reading the meter monthly and paying on the first day of the tenancy as estimated amount and adjusting that each month as you read the meters. That's so you are paying in advance rather than in arrears when you might not get your half if your joint tenant does a runner leaving you with the last month of expenses. Do not rely on friendships. Whoever is watching TV must make sure the property is covered by a TV licence. Do not allow live TV broadcasts to be watched or recorded in the living rooms if there isn't a licence for the property (or buy one yourself - you can pay quarterly).

Pixie5740

With a joint tenancy you will be jointly and severally liable for the whole rent. There won't be your share and his share. The deposit will probably be saved as one with a lead tenant being named.

You should be able to get contents insurance for your belongings in a flat share.