Landlord's Advance Deposit

STAVROS

I understand that a lodger is classed as an " excluded occupier ". In this instance how far in advance can a landlord insist on a deposit to secure a room....3 months, 6 months or even more? 

theartfullodger

if he will be a genuine lodger AFAIK no restrictions.

However if e.g. landlord later moves out but he remains he becomes (if England) AST tenant and AST laws and regulations.

I.e. not simple 

Lodger always able to decline landlord's insistence anyway