Renting

[Scarlett]

I have half a house, a shared freehold with the lady upstairs. I want to go and do an MA for 2 years, meaning I will have to rent out my flat for that time. Do I 1)have to tell the lady upstairs

2) does she have any say over whether I can do this or not?

I will of course discuss it with her, but where do I stand legally? I wouldn't much like it if she moved out and I had renters living above me! Any ideas?

Thanks!

[lady_p_gold]

Do you pay insurance separately for the property ? Not sure what arrangement you have for paying it but your insurance company if not informed could get iffy about paying out in the event of some misfortune.    If you actually own your half of the property outright then I would say you can do what you like with it, but in the interests of harmonious relations I think it would definitely be best to discuss it and any possible implications.   Also there is the question of declaring the income and paying tax on it etc. etc. all the more reason to keep things sweet with her !

[Scarlett]

Well I pay her �20 a month which is my half of the building insurance. I would have to keep paying this, I believe, as a landlord, but the tenants would have to have their own contents insurance. I would also take out my own contents insurance, for things like MY stuff, which will remain there (I have a big cellar) and in the case of them wrecking the joint etc...Eeek...

[Mrs_Pegasus]

Why not involve her from the start and maybe interview prospective tenants together.  You may consider 'employing' her to keep an eye on the tenants for you and therefore, she will feel she can discuss concerns with you.