Can I rent my house to my friend who is on child benefit? (UK)?

Question

As a lone parent with 3 children, my friend gets benefit and rent paid. She is currently on her own in a tower block in a questionable neighbourhood.

Myself having moved to my girlfriend's house, is it possible to rent my old house to her? Better for her and kids. And I'd rather rent it to someone I know and can trust to keep it in good order. Do I have to register as a landlord, submit to council inspection, etc

Answer 1

Yes you can.

Yes you do.

Answer 2

Her rent is paid as Housing Benefit and there are strict rules to make sure that this is a genuine arrangement and not a scheme to make money out of the government.  First check with the Housing Department of your Local Authority what would be a fair rate for the property.  You also need to give her a rent book and make proper records of when she pays.  Once she's moved in, she'll get a visit from the Housing Department.

You will need to keep proper accounts and pay tax on the "profit" you make from the property.  That's the rent less allowable deductions which are mortgage interest (but not capital repayments), maintenance costs (keep receipts) and buildings insurance.

Answer 3

I think you do need to register as a landlord. You at least need to know how to draw up a lease.

Answer 4

Yes if she is to claim for rent etc..

Answer 5

as a private landlord renting to the council, they will have to inspect the property and ok it for rental.

if ur property is acceptable, then yes u can rent it to a council tenent.