Contents
Example sharing leaflet for clients .......................................................... 2
Template SAR Hostel Exemption Letter .................................................. 5
Template assessment form ..................................................................... 6
Example Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement ................................. 12
Template inventory for a room in a shared house ................................. 23
Template lodgings agreement............................................................... 24
Template Host Application Form ........................................................... 28
Example Host Information Pack ............................................................ 31
Template parental agreement letter ...................................................... 34
Example Matching Questionnaires ....................................................... 35
Template House Meeting Record Pro-former........................................ 39
Example cleaning rota .......................................................................... 40
Sharers’ charter .................................................................................... 41
Template lead tenant budget sheet ....................................................... 42
Template peer mentor job description ................................................... 43
Property sharing protocol ...................................................................... 45
1
Example sharing leaflet for clients
Living with flatmates
Moving into a shared rented house or flat can work really well and enable you to get a home
in the location you want at a price you can afford.
Knowing what to expect from shared living can give you a much better chance of keeping a
tenancy. This guide will help you to understand the problems that can happen when you
share a house and let you know how to deal with them.
Sorting out problems when sharing a house or flat
Living with people can sometimes be difficult. But problems can often be easily solved if you
deal with them quickly. A small issue can become a big problem if it is not dealt with.
Some common problem areas are:






cleaning
dirty dishes
paying for everyday products such as milk and toilet paper
paying bills
visitors
safety and security
These things usually become issues when housemates haven’t agreed or understood what
is acceptable. So the best thing is to agree how to behave from the start.
House rules
To avoid tension it’s always a good idea to agree house rules. And when agreeing the rules
it’s important to remember that everyone is different, with different outlooks and different
expectations.
If you are moving into a house where other people already live ask them what the house
rules are. This also helps to show them that you want to fit in.
Here are some things that could be covered in the house rules:
Standard House rules
 Cleaning of communal areas to be done weekly – check rota!
 Dishes to be done straight away after eating.
 Kitty – £3 per week per housemate. This will pay for milk, tea, sugar, bread, toilet roll,
cleaning products, toothpaste, washing up liquid – value brand only.
 Davie will be responsible for household kitty. The kitty record book is kept in the
kitchen drawer.
 Let others know if you plan to have friends over.
 No loud music/noise after 10 pm unless agreed.
 Knock before you enter rooms.
Cleaning responsibilities
You are responsible for keeping your own room clean and tidy. But there are also communal
areas to consider. In some shared houses people set up a cleaning rota, so everyone takes
a turn cleaning communal areas. Agree on who is responsible for cleaning and when.
2
Dishes
Some people prefer the kitchen to be spotless at all times, others think it is fine to wash
dishes at the end of the day. Agree with your housemates when the dishes should be done.
Sharing food and other items
Many house and flatmates put a set amount of money into a kitty to buy the things everyone
uses – milk, toilet paper, cleaning products. One person may be responsible for buying them
or housemates can take turns. It is important to agree what items the kitty covers, and what
brands.
Check with your housemates what happens if someone goes away for a time? Do they still
have to pay, or if they have someone staying for a few days, do they pay more?
Visitors
It is nice to have visitors over, and you should be able to have your friends and family over.
Sometimes they might stay overnight. That should also be ok. But if someone who was not
paying rent and not putting money in the kitty was staying over for more than a night or two,
how would you feel? Agree when and for how long it is ok to have visitors.
Top
Bills and flatmates
Paying bills can sometimes lead to arguments among flat and housemates. Whatever the
disagreements it’s important to remember that unpaid bills do not go away. Council tax
departments and utility companies go after people named on the account even if they have
moved. They can take legal action if you don’t pay your bills after several demands, so it’s
important that you pay promptly.
When you move in, telephone the utility companies (gas, electricity) and Council Tax
department to tell them the date you first moved in. This makes sure you will not be charged
for the time before this.
If you have a pre-paid meter make sure there is no debt on it.
In shared accommodation bills are often paid in the following ways:
a. Everyone’s names on all the bills.
b. Different bills in different housemates’ names.
c. The landlord charges each tenant a flat fee and pays the bills.
Although the second option seems easier, remember that the named person is then legally
responsible for paying the whole bill.
Paying bills together
To avoid problems you can set up a ‘house’ bank account in all the tenants’ names. You can
then set up direct debits for all your bills and you and the other tenants pay into the account
each month. This way you all make smaller, regular payments instead of one big payment
every three months. Also, if you pay bills by direct debit, you often get a discount.
Alternatively you can use a scheme like Glide to pay your share of the utilities and services
bills, although you have to pay a deposit which you could lose if another flat mate does not
pay their share.
Landlord pays the bill and charges you
Make sure you know how much you are liable to pay so you can put enough money aside.
3
Pre-paid meter
If you have a pre-paid meter gas or electricity meter it might be good to have a kitty that can
be used to top up the meter.
Living safely and securely
You should always feel safe in your new home. These simple tips can be helpful in
protecting your privacy and safety when you first move into a shared a house or flat.
• You should not go into someone’s room without their permission and they should not come
into yours.
• But if you move into an existing house share where they are used to going into each
other’s rooms, you should make clear if it makes you feel uncomfortable.
• When you first move in do not leave your valuables around the house or show them off
until you get to know the people in the house a little bit better.
• Some properties will have locks on the rooms, but others won’t. It is important that you feel
safe in your home, and you should make sure that you feel ok with the other people you
move in with.
Good communications
A notice board or white board in a central place is handy to leave messages. It’s a good way
to communicate if people are not at home. It can also be a good place to keep receipts, bills
and to remind people of things agreed.
Keep the house rules on the notice board, and a record of who has paid for what.
Sorting out problems
If someone in the house is creating a problem or has upset you, talk to them about it. It is
better to explain how someone’s actions make you feel, rather than accusing them of
behaving badly.
1. You could have an initial friendly chat to explain what you are upset
about and this might resolve the situation.
2. If that doesn’t help then a house meeting may be the place to bring it up.
If a person is creating big problems for the rest of the house, it may be best to ask the
landlord to sort it out. They are responsible for their tenant’s behaviour. Remember to think
carefully about approaching the landlord with issues in the house as it could impact on their
decision to renew the tenancy.
Most local authorities offer a free mediation service which you may be able to use if you are
having serious problems with a flatmate.
4
Template SAR Hostel Exemption Letter
London Borough of
{Date}
To Whom It May Concern:
Re:
NINO:
DOB:
Address:
I am writing with reference to the above named person who has made a housing benefit
claim and is exempt from the shared accommodation rate of LHA.
Customer Name resided in Hostel Name for the period of Dates
He/she claimed Housing Benefit from the borough of Borough while he/she resided there.
His/her Claim Reference number was:
Customer Name lived in a Supported Housing, homelessness hostel for longer than 3
months. While there he/she received on site support around his/her housing and support
needs. He/she is therefore exempt from the Single Room Rate of Local Housing Allowance
implemented from January 2012.
Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind Regards
5
Template assessment form
Assessment form
Referring Agency Details (to be completed by the referring agency)
Name of Agency………………………………………………………………………………….
Name of Referrer…………………………………………………………………………………
Does the applicant know that you are making this referral? Y/N
Does the applicant understand that (the scheme) cannot guarantee them accommodation,
and that any accommodation offered will be shared with other people?
Yes
No
What level of resettlement support will the applicant require?
Low
Medium
High
Please give reasons for your answer:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………..………………………………………………………………………………………
Applicant Details
Name ………………………………………
Date of Application…………………………………
Date of birth: Date: …… Month … Year……
Age: ……..
National Insurance number: ……………………………………………..
Contact Address:
……………………………………………………..…………………………………………
Postcode: ……………
Is this a c/o address (friend/family/agency?)
Yes
No
If YES please give details……………………………………………………….
Phone…………………………………………………
Mobile………………………………………
Is it OK to leave message at this address/telephone number?
Yes
No
Are you:
Single
Yes
No
In a couple wanting to be rehoused together:
Yes
No
Do you have any children living with you?
Yes
No
Are you currently homeless?
Yes
No
Have you ever experienced homelessness before?
Yes
No
Emergency contact:
Relationship to you:
…………………………………………………………………………………….
Contact
Address:………………………………………………………………………………………….
6
Telephone number:
…………………………………………………………………………………….
Next of kin:
…………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Relationship to you:
……………………………………………………………………………………..
Contact
Address:……………………………………………………………………………………………
Telephone number:
………………………………………………………………………………………
Did anyone refer you here? (Tick one)
Alcohol agency
Housing dept
Social Worker
CPN / Mental Health Worker
Probation
Other Voluntary
Sector
Other: ………………………….
Drugs Agency
Self
What is the name of the person who referred you here?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What is their phone number?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Immigration Status (Tick one)
Asylum Seeker Awaiting Decision
Discretionary Leave To Remain
EEA National Currently Working
EEA National Financially SelfSupporting
Husband / Wife Sponsorship
Indefinite Leave To Remain
Refugee
Study Visa
EEA National In UK Studying
EEA National Not Working
EEA National Receiving Welfare Benefits
Humanitarian Protection
UK National
Work Visa
Unknown
Other …………………………..
Equal Opportunities Monitoring
How do you describe your ethnic origin? (Tick one)
White English
White Welsh
Black – Caribbean
Other black background
White Scottish
Asian – Pakistani
White Irish
Asian – Bangladeshi
Other white background
Asian – British
Black – British
Asian – Indian
Mixed – White & Black British
Mixed – White & Asian
Chinese
Other ………………………….
Black – African
Did not answer
Other Asian background
How do you identify yourself?
Male
How would you describe yourself:
Heterosexual / Straight
Female
Gay / Lesbian
Other
How would you describe your nationality?
7
Mixed – White & Black African
Mixed – White & Black
Transgender
Bisexual
Do not wish to disclose
___________________
Do you have a religion?
Yes
If yes, how would you describe it?
Do you have a disability?
Yes
No
Do not wish to disclose
_________________
No
Mobility Difficulties
Mental Health Difficulties
Visual impairment
Learning Disability
Hearing Impairment
Dyslexia
Progressive Disability
/ Chronic Illness
Other ________________
Housing Situation
What is your current housing situation? (Tick one)
B & B or other temporary accommodation
Private rented
Children’s home
Rough sleeper
Foster care
Housing association tenant
Hostel
Squatting
Council accommodation
Staying with friends
Mobile home
Staying with parents
Sleeping on sofas
Staying with relatives
Night shelter
Supported accommodation
Home owner
Living in accommodation provided by employer
Prison
Other (please specify)……………………………
Have you ever stayed in a hostel?
Yes
No
If yes, where?
………………………………………………………………………..................................................
How long for?
………………………………………………………………………..................................................
What is the main reason for you being homeless or vulnerable to homelessness?
Asked to leave
Landlord sold property
Armed forces
Leaving prison
Asylum seeker
Mortgage repossession
Bereavement
End of assured shorthold tenancy
Disrepair
Property too expensive
Eviction from tenancy – arrears
Relationship breakdown (separation)
Eviction from tenancy – anti-social behaviour
Relationship breakdown (parents)
Eviction from hostel / temporary accommodation
Relapsed from dry house
Hospital discharge
Rough sleeping
Harassment from landlord
Unsuitable accommodation
Harassment from neighbours
Violence at home (domestic)
Left by choice
Violence at home (racial / other)
Leaving care
Other (please specify)…………………………………………………………..………………
8
Has your landlord given you written notice to leave your current accommodation?
Yes
No
Have you been told by the court that you have to leave your current accommodation?
Yes
No
Have you ever slept rough?
When was the last time you slept rough?
Yes
No
Day ………. Month ……… Year ……….
If your application is accepted, it may take several weeks for us to find you accommodation.
Do you have anywhere to stay for the short-term?
Yes
No
Have you made a homeless application to the council?
Yes
No
What was the outcome of your homeless application?
………………………………………………………………………..................................................
Additional Support
Do you consider yourself to have a disability?
Yes
No
Are you registered disabled?
Yes
No
Are you currently taking any medication?
Yes
No
Give details of current / past health problems. (E.g. epilepsy, diabetics, high blood pressure)
Give details of current medication
Have you ever had any mental health problems?
If yes, give details of past mental health problems
Yes
No
Are you involved with any mental health services?
Yes
No
If yes, which ones (include dates and the name of anyone you worked with):
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
If no, have you ever been involved with any mental health services in the past?
Yes
No
If yes, which service(s) were you involved with and when was this?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Have you got any of the following needs?
Welfare benefits
Finding a job, training, education or volunteering
Debt / money advice
Loneliness
Mental health
Cooking
Drugs
Looking after yourself
Alcohol
Housing advice / accommodation
Living independently
Offending / crime
Other (please specify)………………………………
What would you like help with on each of these issues?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What other organisations have you worked with around these needs? When was this?
9
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
What other organisations are supporting you at the moment?
Social Services
Other local organisation (give name…………………………………..)
Probation
Community Psychiatric Nurse / mental health worker
Drugs agency
Other NHS or health organisation
Alcohol agency
GP
Private Rented Standards
Income
How would you describe your current employment status? (Tick one)
Sick / disabled
Student full-time
Student part-time
Training full-time
Training part-time
Unemployed
Working full-time
Working part-time
Working full-time – self- employed
Working part-time – self-employed
If you are currently employed, what is the length of your contract? …………………
What is your income per week after you’ve paid tax and National Insurance? …………………
Are there any other deductions to your pay (e.g. attachment of earnings)? …………………
Are you currently in receipt of any benefits?
Yes
No
If yes what, and how much weekly?
Do you get any income from anywhere else, e.g. maintenance?………………………
Proof of Identity
What proof do you have of your identity (e.g. medical card, birth certificate, driving licence)?
…………………………………………….…………...
National Insurance Number (e.g. DWP letter, NINO card, payslip):
……………………………………………….
Do you have a bank account?
Yes
No
Do you have any debts?
Yes
No
If yes, what are they and what are your payment arrangements?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Are your financial circumstances about to change?
Yes
No
If so, how?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………
Offending History
Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence?
Yes
No
If yes, give dates and full details of all previous offences and sentences:
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………
Have you ever been convicted of an offence involving violence?
Yes
No
Have you ever been convicted of an offence involving arson?
Yes
No
10
Have you ever been convicted of a sexual offence?
Yes
No
If you have answered yes to any of the above, please give full details:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Have you ever served time in prison or a young offender’s institution?
Yes
No
If yes, give full details:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Are you currently on license?
Yes
No
If yes, what are the conditions of your
license?......................................................................................................................................
Are you managed at MAPPA? (Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements)
If yes, what level? ……………………………………………………………………………………
Do you have a probation officer/named worker?
Yes
No
Name:
……………...……………………………………………………………………………………………
Contact Tel:
…...………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Give Details:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Can we approach your probation officer for a reference on your suitability for shared
accommodation? This will include requesting details on previous convictions for violence,
arson, sexual offences and whether you are considered a risk to yourself or other people.
Yes
No
Housing Preferences
Which areas would you NOT consider living in?
Have you ever lived in shared accommodation?
Yes
No
If yes, when?
………………………………………………………………………..................................................
What was your experience of this?
………………………………………………………………………..................................................
Do you have any children, and if so how many? …………………
If so, do you have regular access to your children?
Yes
No
If so, how does this affect your accommodation needs?
Are there any other factors which may affect the suitability or otherwise of a property (i.e.
pets, mobility)?
Referrers Signature …..…………………………………………….
Applicants Signature …..…………………………………………….
11
Example Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement
Assured Shorthold Tenancy
Dated:
Property:
Room:
Tenant:
This agreement is intended to create an assured shorthold tenancy, regulated by the
provisions of the Housing Act 1988 as amended. It sets out your rights and duties as tenant
of this Property, and our rights and our duties owed to you as your landlord. It should be
signed at the end by us both to confirm that we agree with it.
Under this agreement you will have exclusive use of your designated room(s), and shared
use with the other occupiers of the shared areas of the property.
If there is an existing tenant in the property at the time this agreement is signed, note that
this agreement is subject to vacant possession being provided by that tenant (or tenants if
there is more than one). If the tenant refuses to move out, then this agreement will not take
effect.
You should not sign this agreement unless you are sure you understand it. Read it carefully.
If there is anything you do not understand, you should speak to a solicitor, or a reputable
advice agency such as Shelter or the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), who will explain it to
you.
This is an important legal document and you should keep it safe.
If anything goes wrong with your tenancy you will need it, particularly if you have to go to
court.
Landlord’s contact details
If you need to contact us at any time, please use the contact details below (unless we tell
you that these details have changed, and provide new details). Where there is an agent, the
contact details will be those of the agent, and all contact should be made through the agent:
Landlords name:
Landlord postal address:
Landlord email: j
Agent (if any):
Telephone number:
12
Fax number:
Email:
Other contact details:
Main details and definitions
The Property:
Extra notes:
Referred to as the Property in this agreement. This includes any garden but does not include
any shared areas. Note that you must not move to another room in the property without
asking our permission first. If we agree it will be necessary for you to sign a new tenancy
agreement first.
The Landlord:
Referred to as we or us in this agreement (even if there is only one landlord).
Note: if the owner of the Property changes, for example if the Property is sold, or if the
landlord named above dies and the Property passes to someone else, this will not change
your rights and obligations under this agreement. The only difference will be that the identity
of your landlord will have changed.
The Tenant:
Referred to as you or your in this agreement. Where there is more than one tenant, this
refers to all of you collectively.
Your email:
If you agree to our serving notices and other legal documents upon you electronically at this
email address please sign below:
Signed: .................................................................
If you change your email address, you must let us know your new email address seven days
before the change takes effect.
The fixed term
Six months from
and ending on
Once this period of time has ended, you can continue to live in the Property, and your
tenancy will run from month to month, starting on the day after the fixed term ends. During
this time the terms and conditions set out in this agreement will still apply.
When we refer in this agreement to the fixed term, we mean the period of time given above.
When we refer to the term, we mean all the time you live in the Property (which will often be
longer than just the fixed term) up until one of the following occurs:




13
you give notice that you want to end the agreement (see section 9 below); or
we serve a notice on you under section 21 of the Housing Act 1988; or
we enter into a new written agreement with you; or
this agreement is ended by consent or a court order.
The rent
The payment date
The first payment should be made by you at or before the time you sign this agreement.
All subsequent payments must be paid every month in advance on the payment date.
Payment should be by standing order into our bank account, details of which have been
provided to you. All payments (including any payments made by cheque or internet transfer)
must reach our bank by the payment date. Any cheques therefore must be given to us at
least five days before the payment date.
The Service Charge
The payment date
The Deposit/Bond
This is sometimes also known as a damage deposit or bond. It is a sum of money paid to us
which will be returned to you if the Property is left in good condition, and provided all the rent
due has been paid, when you have moved out at the end of your tenancy.
We will register the deposit with one of the government authorised tenancy deposit schemes
(the Tenancy Deposit Scheme) within 30 days of receiving it, as required by the Tenancy
Deposit Scheme rules. For more information on the deposit see section 2 below.
Other charges
You will also be required to pay the following charges, in addition to the rent, the deposit (if
any) and the general utility and similar charges set out in section 1 below:
No additional charges save utilities.
Some more definitions
The inventory
This is a list of all our possessions (e.g. fixtures and fittings) which are at the Property. It may
also contain information about the condition of these possessions and the Property itself.
You will be given an opportunity to check the inventory at the Property. It should then be
signed and dated by us both to confirm that it is correct. A copy of the inventory should then
be attached to this agreement and kept with it.
Fixtures and fittings
All of our appliances and furnishings in the Property, including installations for supplying or
using gas, electricity and water.
Shared areas
Those parts of the building which are shared by you with the other occupiers, ie:
All areas in the property save the rooms let or used by other occupiers for their exclusive use
or rooms which are reserved for other occupiers.
Fair wear and tear
This is the deterioration in the condition of the Property and its contents which occurs
naturally as a result of being lived in, and used in a reasonable and legal manner. The
amount of wear and tear in a property which will be considered fair, will depend on a number
of factors, including the length of time the property has been lived in by the tenants, the
14
number and age of the people allowed to live there, and whether the landlord has allowed
pets and/or smoking.
Important note
When you are responsible for the actions of others
You are responsible for the behaviour of everyone who lives in or visits the Property.
Therefore, for example, if the Property is damaged by one of your visitors, we can claim the
cost of repair from you, rather than from the visitor. It may be possible for you to claim
repayment from the visitor but this is something you will have to do yourself.
When this agreement says that you must do or must not do anything, this will automatically
include your family, anyone else living at the property, and all visitors.
Terms and conditions
Note that individual terms and conditions in sections 1 to 10 may be replaced or modified by
the additional clauses (if any) set out in section 11 below.
1. Payments, utilities and costs
1.1 You must pay the rent at the times and in the manner set out above in full and without
deduction or set off (save any that may be permissible in law).
1.2 You are not entitled to withhold payment of any rent or any other money due to us
because you have paid a deposit.
1.3 If anyone other than the tenant named in this agreement pays all or part of the rent, this
payment will be treated as being paid by the other person on your behalf (as your agent or
representative) and we will be entitled to assume this without having to ask you.
1.4 You need not pay any rent for any period during which the Property is wholly
uninhabitable. The amount of rent which you do not have to pay will be calculated pro-rata
(for every day the Property is uninhabitable you need not pay a day’s rent). Likewise if part
of the Property is uninhabitable you will only be responsible for paying rent for the part of the
Property you are able to use, and your rent will be reduced accordingly. This clause does not
apply if the Property or part of the Property is uninhabitable because of something you did or
did not do, or because you did something (or failed to do something) which invalidated our
insurance policy.
1.5 You must pay interest at the rate of 1% per annum above the Bank of England base rate
on any rent or other money which you owe to us and which remains unpaid for more than 14
days, interest to be paid from the date the payment fell due until you pay the money to us.
1.6 The Landlord is responsible for the payment of Council Tax in accordance with HMO
regulations.
1.7 When utility costs for the property, including water, gas and electricity, internet and TV
services are paid directly by the Landlord, a service charge to cover such services will be
payable by you directly to the Landlord. This cost is in addition to the rent payable, and is not
covered by Housing Benefit. Each individual tenant is wholly responsible for paying their
weekly/monthly service charge.
15
1.8 Where a service charge is payable to the Landlord to cover utility charges for the
property, a fair usage policy will apply; Tenant/s will be responsible for ensuring gas,
electricity and other services are not abused or overused. Should overuse become evident,
the Landlord will reserve the right to review the service charge and adjust accordingly to
ensure no additional cost to the Landlord that would be payable by the Tenant/s.
1.9 If you allow the supply of any utility or other service to be cut off because you have not
paid what you owe or have not followed specific instructions, either during or at the end of
your tenancy, you must pay any costs associated with reconnecting or continuing the
service.
1.10 You must not change the supplier or provider of any of the services to the Property
without our written consent (which we will not refuse or delay without good reason).
1.11 You must pay any reasonable costs and expenses (which must be reasonable both in
amount and in nature) which we have been put to, where you have not carried out your
responsibilities under this agreement. You must also pay any reasonable costs and
expenses that we have been put to as a result of responding to any request you make for
any consent or permission under this agreement.
1.12 If requested to do so by any utility or other similar company, note that we reserve the
right to pass on to them any contact or other information we may hold about you. For
example, to assist them recover any outstanding invoices due to them
2. The deposit
(Note, if no deposit has been paid, this section will not apply.)
2.1 When you pay the deposit to us, we will arrange for it to be protected by an authorised
Tenancy Deposit Scheme as required by the Housing Act 2004. We will give a notice to you
confirming that this has been done within 14 days.
2.2 We will follow the rules of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme at all times.
2.3 You will get the deposit back when your tenancy ends and you move out of the property,
so long as you have kept all the terms and conditions set out in this agreement, and paid all
the rent and bills for the property. If this is not done, then we will be entitled to claim from the
deposit any unpaid rent and other payments legally due to us, reasonable compensation if
you have broken any of these terms and conditions, and the reasonable cost of dealing with
any damage which is not caused by fair wear and tear. Any claim we make will be subject to
the rules of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
2.4 You will not be entitled to any interest payable on the deposit money, if this money is
held by us.
3. The condition of the Property and disrepair
Our responsibilities
3.1 We will make sure that the Property is in good condition at the time it is let to you,
without any ‘category 1 hazards’. This is in line with the standards set under the Housing
Health and Safety Rating System, described in Part 1 of the Housing Act 2004.
16
3.2 Where appropriate, we will carry out our responsibilities under the Landlord and Tenant
Act 1985 section 11, the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, and the
Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994.
3.3 In simple terms, our responsibilities under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 section 11
are to keep the following (where provided by us) in good repair and proper working order:
3.3.1 The structure and exterior of the Property (including drains, gutters and external pipes)
3.3.2 The installations at the Property for the supply of water, gas and electricity and for
sanitation (including basins, sinks, baths and sanitary conveniences). However we will only
be responsible for the fixtures, fittings and appliances for making use of the supply of gas,
electricity and water, if they are owned and supplied by us
3.3.3. The installations for space heating and heating water.
3.4 We will also keep any contents of the Property (as listed in the Inventory) which belong
to us, in good repair and proper working order, fair wear and tear excepted
3.5 However, we will not be responsible for:
3.5.1 Carrying out work that you are responsible for under your duty to use the Property in a
‘tenant-like manner’;
3.5.2 Rebuilding or reinstating the Property if it has been destroyed by fire, storm or flood or
some inevitable accident; or
3.5.3 Repairing or maintaining anything which belongs to you
3.6 If the Property is a flat or maisonette within a larger building, we will have similar
obligations towards the rest of the building, but only for damage or neglect which will affect
your use of the Property, and only if we are legally entitled to enter the relevant part of the
larger building and carry out the necessary work or repairs.
Your responsibilities
3.7 You must not make any alteration or addition to the Property, or do any redecoration
without our permission in writing (which we will not refuse or delay without good reason).
3.8 You must keep your room, and our fixtures and fittings in your room, in good condition,
undamaged (other than by fair wear and tear), and clean and tidy.
3.9 You must keep the shared areas clean and fit for use by you and the other occupiers of
the Property.
3.10 You must tell us promptly about any repair that is needed, or any act of vandalism done
to the Property or any fixtures or items that we are responsible for. If possible you should tell
us in writing. Where you have spoken to us about the problem, you should if possible
confirm this to us in writing within three days, or as soon as is reasonably practicable.
3.11 You will be responsible for the repair of any damage to your room, or the shared areas,
or to our fixtures and fittings, that you have caused (except for fair wear and tear), and you
must refund us for any money we have to pay to repair the damage. If for any reason it is not
reasonably possible to repair an item then you will be responsible for the reasonable cost of
its replacement..
17
3.12 You must not block or obstruct the drains and pipes, gutters and channels in or around
the Property, and you must take all reasonable steps to prevent any part of the draining and
heating systems becoming frozen during the winter months. You will be responsible for
paying for or refunding (as far as is reasonable) all losses we and any of your neighbours
suffer as a result of your failure to follow this condition.
3.13 You must (together with the other occupiers of the Property) keep the garden (if there is
one) neat and tidy and maintained to the same standard as it was in at the start of your
tenancy.
4. Health and safety
(See also the section above on the condition of the Property and disrepair for our
responsibilities)
4.1 You must not keep any dangerous or flammable goods (those that easily catch fire),
materials or substances in or on the Property, apart from those needed for general
household use (such as matches)
4.2 You must not use any form of heating other than the heating system provided by us,
unless you have our written permission (which we will not refuse or delay without good
reason). In particular you must not use any oil or liquid petroleum gas fires.
4.3 You must not smoke [in your room or] in any shared areas.
4.4 You must test all smoke alarms installed in the Property at least once a month, and
replace the batteries regularly.
4.5 You must keep the Property free from vermin.
4.6 You must keep all shared areas, in particular passages and hallways, free from
obstruction.
5. Using the Property
Our responsibilities
5.1 We will allow you to use and enjoy the Property during the term without interference from
us or anyone acting on our behalf. However, this does not affect our right to take legal action
against you to enforce our rights if you break any of the terms of this agreement.
(Note - this type of clause is often called ‘the covenant of quiet enjoyment’).
Your responsibilities
5.2 You must not allow anyone who is not named in this agreement to live in or share
possession or occupation of your room with you. This does not apply to visitors but these
should not normally stay at the Property for longer than one week, without our written
permission (which we will not refuse or delay without good reason).
5.3 You must use the Property as a private residence only. This means that you must not
carry out any profession, trade or business at the Property.
5.4 You must not do anything on or at the Property that:
18
5.4.1 causes or is likely to cause a nuisance or annoyance to anyone else living in the
Property or anyone who owns or lives in nearby premises
5.4.2 is illegal or immoral
5.4.3 allows strangers unsupervised access to any shared areas which are not open to the
general public You will be responsible for paying (as far as is reasonable) for all losses we,
and anyone else, may suffer as a result of you not following this condition.
5.5 You must not leave the your room empty for a continuous period of more than 30 days
without telling us, either beforehand or as soon as possible in an emergency, and you must
make the Property secure when you are leaving it unattended.
5.6 You must not keep any pet or any kind of animal at the Property unless you have our
written permission (which we will not refuse or delay without good reason).
6. Insurance
Our responsibilities
6.1 We will insure the Property and any contents that belong to us, and will make reasonable
efforts to arrange to repair any damage caused by an insured risk as soon as possible.
6.2 We will give you a copy of our insurance policy, or an extract of the relevant parts
Your responsibilities
6.3 You must not do anything on or at the Property that will in any way affect the insurance
of the Property and its contents, or which will increase the premium that we have to pay. If
you do not follow this clause you will have to re-pay to us, for the period of time you are
living at the Property, any extra amount we have to pay for our insurance premium, which is
due to your conduct or the conduct of anyone you have allowed to live at or visit the
Property.
6.4 You will be responsible for arranging and paying the premiums for any insurance cover
for your personal belongings.
7. Landlords inspections and keys
7.1 You must allow us, or our agent (if any) or anyone with our permission in writing, to enter
your room at reasonable times of the day to inspect its condition and state of repair, carry
out any necessary repairs and gas inspections, and show your room to interested tenants or
buyers, as long as we have given you at least 24 hours' notice in writing beforehand (except
in an emergency).
7.2 We are however entitled to visit and inspect any shared areas without giving you any
prior notice, provided our visit is for a lawful reason.
7.3 We are entitled to have keys for all the doors to the Property (including your room), but
we are not entitled to use them to enter your room without your permission (unless it is an
emergency).
7.4 If you do not return all the keys at the end of your tenancy, we will charge you the
reasonable cost of having new locks fitted and keys cut.
8. Notices, post and documents
19
8.1 This clause formally notifies you, under section 48 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987
that you should serve any notices (including notices in legal proceedings) on us at the
address we give at the start of this agreement.
8.2 You must tell us promptly about any notice or order received by you that affects the
Property.
8.3 You must forward to us promptly all post received at the property which is addressed to
us. If you receive any other post which is not addressed you, please let us know.
8.4 Any notices or other documents, including any court claim forms in legal proceedings,
will be properly served on you during your tenancy by being personally served on you, or by
being either left at the Property or sent to you at the Property by recorded delivery.
Notices served personally on you will be deemed served at the time of service, if they are left
at the property on a business day before 4.30 pm they will be deemed served on that day,
otherwise they will be deemed served on the next business day. Notices served by recorded
delivery will be deemed served on the second day after posting.
8.5 If you have signed to confirm that you consent to service upon you by email at your email
address then if any notice or document is sent before 4.30 pm on a business day it will be
deemed served on that day. Otherwise it will be deemed served on the next business day
after that day.
9. Ending or transferring this agreement
9.1 You must not transfer ownership of (assign) this tenancy, or sublet it, or borrow any
money on the security of the Property or your tenancy.
9.2 You cannot normally end this agreement before the end of the fixed term. However, after
the first three months of the fixed term, if you can find another suitable tenant to replace you
(the new tenant), and if we approve the new tenant (we will not refuse or delay our approval
without good reason), you can give written notice to end the tenancy not less than one
month from the date that we give our approval. At the end of this notice period, the tenancy
will end as long as:
9.2.1 you have paid all the rent to the end of your notice period, together with any other
money, legally due to us in respect of your tenancy
9.2.2 you have refunded to us our reasonable expenses when granting the new tenancy,
such as getting references and providing a tenancy agreement, and
9.2.3 the new tenant has signed a tenancy agreement with us for a period of either six
months or for a period which is equal to the rest of your fixed term
However if this is not done you will remain responsible for the rent until the end of the fixed
term, even though you may no longer be living at the Property.
9.3 If you stay on after the end of your fixed term, your tenancy will be converted into a
monthly tenancy which will run from month to month, starting on the day after your fixed term
ended (this is called a periodic tenancy). You can end this periodic tenancy at any time by
giving us not less than one months’ notice in writing, starting on the next payment date.
9.4 If you do not pay the rent (or any part) within 21 days of the payment date (whether we
have formally demanded it or not), or if you do not carry out your obligations under this
agreement, or if any of the circumstances mentioned in grounds 2, 8 or 10 to 15 or 17 of part
20
II of schedule 2, and in schedule 2A of the Housing Act 1988 arise, we can repossess the
Property and end your tenancy, as long as we follow the proper legal procedure. We keep all
our other rights as far as your responsibilities under this agreement are concerned.
Note: if anyone lives at the Property or if the tenancy is an assured or an assured shorthold
tenancy under the Housing Act 1988, we cannot repossess the Property without a court
order. This clause does not affect your rights under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.
9.5 If the Property is completely destroyed or becomes uninhabitable (for example due to fire
or flood), then this agreement will end. However this does not affect the right of either of us
to claim against the other in respect of something which happened or did not happen before
this agreement ended, or our right to claim against you if the Property was destroyed or
becomes uninhabitable because you did not follow or comply with your obligations under this
agreement.
10. Leaving the Property
10.1 During the last month of the fixed term (and not later than fourteen days before the end
of the fixed term), you must tell us whether you intend to stay in the Property or leave at the
end of the fixed term. This is to allow us time to make all necessary arrangements for
receiving the property back such as arranging for a check out meeting and finding a
replacement tenant. You will be responsible for refunding to us any additional expenses
which we may incur as a result of your breach of this clause. This clause does not affect
your legal rights.
10.2 Before you leave, you must, if appropriate, tell all utility companies and arrange for final
meter readings. If you are responsible for any unpaid debts or court judgements registered
against the Property, you must do what is necessary to make sure that these are no longer
registered against the Property. If you do not follow this clause, you will be responsible for
paying our reasonable costs and expenses that may result from this.
10.3 You must leave the Property and its contents clean and tidy and in the same condition
that they were in at the beginning of the term, with all items on the inventory (if any) in the
same rooms that they were in at the start of your tenancy. However, you will not be
responsible for any damage caused by fair wear and tear, or for the cost of any damage
covered by our insurance policy.
10.4 You must give us a forwarding address and telephone number before you leave the
Property.
10.5 You must remove all rubbish and all personal items (including your own furniture and
equipment) from the Property and return all the keys for the Property (together with any
identifying key fobs) to us by 11.00 am (or the time given with the fixed term information at
the start of this agreement, if this is different) on the last day of the tenancy. If you wish to
vacate later than the stated time, you should get our permission in writing, which we will not
refuse without good reason.
10.6 If you leave any personal items in the Property (the items) at the end of your tenancy,
the following will apply:
10.6.1 We will send you a notice in writing asking you to remove them.
10.6.2 This notice will be sent to the forwarding address given to us by you, and will be
either delivered by hand or sent by recorded delivery.
21
10.6.3 If the items are not removed within 14 days of this notice being sent or delivered to
you, or if you have not provided us with any forwarding address, we will be entitled to sell or
otherwise dispose of the items.
10.6.4 You will be responsible for paying our reasonable costs for removing, storing and
disposing of the items. We may deduct these costs from the sale proceeds (if any) of the
items, and you will be responsible for paying any balance to us. Any net sale proceeds will
belong to you.
11. Additional clauses
11.1 Housing Benefit
The tenant authorises the Local Authority to discuss with the landlord and the Landlords
agent the details of any Housing Benefit or Council Tax claims made at any time in relation
to the renting of the property.
If the Landlord so requires and the Housing Benefit rules allow it, the Tenant consents to any
Housing Benefit being paid direct by the Local Authority to the Landlord or the Landlords
Agent or by any other means as directed.
The Tenant agrees to refund to the Landlord any Housing Benefit overpayment recovery
which the Local Authority seeks from the Landlord in respect of this tenancy, either before or
after the Tenant has vacated the Property where this creates a shortfall in the money owed
to the Landlord.
11.2 Rent Increases
If you stay on after the end of the fixed term and the tenancy continues as a monthly periodic
tenancy, we will be entitled to increase the rent on the Anniversary Date of your LHA Benefit
Claim and on the Anniversary Date in every subsequent year (the rent increase date), in the
same proportion as any increase in the Local Housing Allowance rate in force at that time.
Alternatively the rent shall increase as agreed between us. We will write to you in the month
preceding the rent increase date to inform you of the proposed new rent. If we do not contact
you regarding the rent increase the rent will remain the same for that year.
Signed as a Deed:
Our signature (landlord):
PRINT NAME:...............................................
SIGNATURE: ..................................................
Date: ………………………………………………………..
Your signature (tenant):
PRINT NAME: ..............................................
SIGNATURE:.................................................
Date.............................................................
22
Template inventory for a room in a shared house
INVENTORY
Tenant/ Lodger’s Name:
Landlord’s Name:
Address of Property:
Room details:
Inventory carried out by:
Date:
Fixture/Fittings
Lodger’s
bedroom
/ Walls
Room in a shared house
Carpet
Curtains/blinds
Curtain poles
Bed
Desk
Wardrobe
Tenant/ Lodger’s signature:
Date:
Landlord’s signature:
Date:
23
Details and condition
(i.e. new/ marks/ make)
Template lodgings agreement
Lodgings Agreement
This agreement is an excluded license - as the lodger lives in the same dwelling as the
landlord the Protection for Eviction Act 1977 does not apply.
The Live-in Landlord
Name:
Address:
The above address is my permanent residence, and I will remain here whilst the person
named below becomes a Lodger. I confirm that I have the legal right to let this room as per
the terms of my mortgage agreement/ I have permission from my landlord to let this room.
Landlord signature:
The Lodger
I hereby agree to rent a room to
Date:
(name of Lodger).
The accommodation
The accommodation comprises of:
Lodger’s accommodation:
e.g. first floor)
(details of the room and location,
Shared areas:
areas, e.g. kitchen, hallway, living room, bathroom)
(details of the shared communal
The contents
The items described for personal usage included in the room are listed in the attached
inventory.
The shared living spaces
The Lodger will have shared use of the shared spaces within the property listed above,
along with the Landlord and any other Lodgers.
Agreement start date
The lodgings arrangement begins on X
Rent amount
The amount of £ X per week/month will be paid direct to the Landlord in advance. This
amount includes all bills for utilities (gas, electric and water) and council tax / This amount
24
does not include bills and an additional service charge of £ X will be paid weekly/monthly
direct to the Landlord to cover all bills and council tax.
Rent payment date
Rent will be paid direct to the Landlord, using the below stated method. It will be paid on: X
day of each month/ X day of each week.
Rent payment type
Rent is to be paid by standing order into the following account:
Or
Rent is payable in cash and the landlord will issue a receipt from a rent book for each
payment.
Termination of agreement
Termination of the agreement by either Landlord or Lodger will be in writing, and either party
will be required to give X weeks’ notice.
Rent paid in advance
Rent paid in advance upon signing of this agreement will be agreed as X weeks, equivalent
to £ X.
A
B
C
D
E
F
The Landlord gives the lodger the personal right to live in the accommodation and to
use the shared rooms described above with the landlord and other lodgers.
The Landlord agrees to keep the property in a reasonable state of repair, including
the structure and exterior of the property.
The Landlord agrees to keep the equipment for the supply of gas, electricity and
water in a safe and good working order
The Lodger agrees to observe and perform the obligations set out in the Standard
Provisions enclosed with this agreement.
This agreement can end at any time:
E.1. by the Landlord giving the Lodger notice to quit the accommodation at the end
of the by notice period
E.2
by the Lodger giving the landlord notice of his/her intention to vacate the
accommodation at the end of the notice period
The Landlord’s address for the service of notices (including notices of proceedings) is
the address given for the Landlord at the start of this agreement.
Landlord Name:
Landlord signature:
Date:
Lodger name:
Lodger signature:
Date:
Witness’s signature:
Witness’s full name:
Date:
Witness’s signature:
Witness’s full name:
Date:
Lodger Obligations
Rent
25
to pay the rent as agreed in the Lodger agreement
Use of premises
to use the premises for private residential purposes as the lodger's
only or principal home and not to operate a profession, trade or
business at the premises or to allow them to be used for any
illegal, immoral or disorderly purposes
Nuisance
not to cause or allow invited visitors to cause a nuisance or
annoyance to landlord or neighbours
not to commit or allow invited visitors to commit any form of
Racial and other harassment which may interfere with the peace and comfort of, or
harassment
cause offence to, any other neighbour, member of their household,
visitor, the Landlord or employee or contractor working on their
behalf
not at any time to play or allow to be played any audio equipment
Noise
or a musical instrument so loudly that it causes nuisance or
annoyance to the Landlord or neighbours or can be heard outside
the premises between the hours of 10pm and 8 am.
not to keep a dog, cat or any animal which may cause a nuisance
Pets
to neighbours or damage the Landlord's property, without the
previous written consent of the Landlord.
Internal decoration not to carry out internal decorations to the premises without
previous consent in writing from the Landlord
Not to alter the not to alter the premises, nor to alter nor install electrical or other
premises
services, without the previous consent in writing of the Landlord
Communal areas
to share responsibility with the landlord for ensuring that communal
areas are kept in a clean and fit condition and are not obstructed in
any way or used to store any items, even temporarily
Damage
not to cause any damage to the premises, fixtures, furniture or
effects and not to remove any of them from the premises. To make
good or pay for any damage to the premises or to fixtures, furniture
and effects or to the common parts caused by the Lodger or any
invited visitors to the premises, fair wear and tear excepted, and to
pay to the Landlord any reasonable and proper costs incurred by
the Landlord in carrying out any works in default
State and condition to leave the premises in the same clean state and condition as it
was in the beginning of the agreement
Note of the condition of the premises and an inventory are attached
to this agreement, and the premises, fixtures, furniture and effects
must be left in at least as good repair and condition at the end of
the tenancy (fair wear and tear excepted)
Reporting disrepair to report to the Landlord promptly any disrepair or defect for which
the Landlord is responsible in the structure or exterior of the
premises or in any installation therein or in the common parts
Insurance
not to do or suffer to be done on the premises anything which may
invalidate the insurance of the premises or otherwise increase the
ordinary premium for such insurance
Gas cylinders
not to use or keep on the premises mobile gas heaters, gas
cylinders, oil burning appliances, paraffin or petrol
Premises
to inform the Landlord if the premises are unoccupied for a period
unoccupied
of longer than 28 days
Moving out
to give the Landlord vacant possession and return the keys of the
premises at the expiry or sooner termination of the lodgings
arrangement and to remove all personal furniture, possessions and
rubbish. The Landlord accepts no responsibility for anything left
behind at the premises by the Lodger at the end of the tenancy
26
Location
furniture
27
of to leave the fixtures, furniture and effects detailed in the inventory at
the end of the tenancy in the rooms or places in which they were at
the beginning of the tenancy
Template Host Application Form
Host Application Form
(Responses to questions may be written by one person but on behalf of all clients of the
applying household)
Date of application …………………………….
Name(s) of applicant(s) - Please give the names of everyone living in your home
Family Name
First Names
Previous
Names
D.O.B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Address:
Street:
Town:
Area:
Postcode:
Telephone numbers:
Home:
Mobile:
Work:
E-mail:
May we ring you at work?
Yes/no
Previous Addresses in the last 5 years:
1:
2:
3:
28
Dates: From
To
Dates: From
To
Dates: From
To
Relationship
to others
1.
Why are you interested in becoming a host?
2. Previous Experience
Please tell us about any previous experience you have had of providing lodgings:
3.
Lodger Profile
a) Are you able to offer accommodation to a lodger who is not working or in full time
education?
b) Are there any groups of people that you would not feel comfortable working with? Please
give details:
4.
29
House Rules
Please give some examples of rules you might have for a lodger
e.g. around smoking, music, staying out overnight or coming home late etc:
5. Your Household
How would you describe your household? Do you have any hobbies or interests? What do you each
tend to do with your spare time?
30
Example Host Information Pack
HOST INFORMATION PACK
About your scheme:
What is a lodgings scheme:
(Scheme) lodgings scheme provides people with a safe and supportive place to live in the
homes of local people. It offers an alternative housing option for vulnerable people
experiencing homelessness. This is in recognition that a supportive domestic environment is
more suitable for some people than more common options such as hostels, bed and
breakfast accommodation or Foyers.
(Your scheme) aims to accommodate people in a warm and welcoming domestic
environment where hosts create a space in which a person can grow and flourish.
Whilst in the scheme people benefit from having stability and space and support from (your
scheme). They are encouraged to integrate into their local community by training and
gaining employment.
What’s in it for the hosts?
Host benefits nclude:

Earning a second income

For those who struggle with the bedroom tax, additional income may alleviate some
of the financial pressure

For those living on their own, the company of another person may be a positive step
Who can apply to be a host?
We are keen to recruit people from all walks of life. We welcome applications from families,
couples, single people, any culture or race and religious background. The most important
thing is that this is something that you would like to do.
So if you have suitable accommodation and the ability to offer a person a safe and
welcoming environment, we would love to hear from you!
The matching and move-in process
We have a clear and flexible matching process to ensure good placements and get them off
to a positive start. It is important that the host is well suited to the lodger.
It is essential that hosts feel comfortable before accepting a lodger, as it could be detrimental
to both parties if a placement went ahead that the host was not entirely sure about or
prepared for. Our matching process involves:
31

Providing information in advance for both parties i.e. the lodgers referral form, the
household profile

Discussions with both parties about the information they’ve seen of each other

An initial meeting of both parties with (scheme) staff which may or many not be in the
host’s home

A home visit if the initial meeting was not in the host’s home

Opportunities for both the lodger and the host to talk to (scheme) staff about any
questions/concerns

Some time and space to make a decision

A planned and managed move-in process
Practical Points:

The lodger will need a room entirely to themselves.

The lodger will get their own door key.

They will share your kitchen, bathroom, lounge and other facilities subject to
negotiation.

There will be a Lodger Agreement which includes house rules agreed between you,
the lodger and (scheme) staff prior to their arrival.

The lodger will sign a Lodger Agreement when they enter your home; this means that
you could ask them to leave having given reasonable notice.

The provision of meals and laundry will be negotiated between the host and lodger
prior to or during placement.
How much money will I receive?
This will vary on a number of things as the weekly payment is calculated based on the Local
Housing Allowance (LHA rate) of (your local area).
Taking in a lodger may help with the under occupancy rule and the extra income may help a
Housing Benefit claimant. For example:
Rent from boarders (who pay a rent which includes some meals)
The first £20 of that rent is disregarded and only half of the rest of the rent is counted as
unearned income.
Rent from a Sub Tenant (who pays a rent which does not include meals)
The first £20 is disregarded and all the rest of the rent is counted as unearned income.
What support will I receive?
During the settling in process, (scheme) staff will be on hand for any support that may be
needed. Following this, quarterly placement reviews are conducted with lodgers and their
hosts by project staff.
Application, Assessment and Approval
Applications are subject to the completion of the assessment processes below:
32
1. Complete and return the
application form enclosed
in the pack, along with the
reference section
All application forms should be sent to:
Scheme Address
2. Home visit, Assessment
and Health and Safety
checks
Once an application form is received, the scheme
worker will arrange a visit to your home which will
consist of informal interviews with all members of the
household and a health and safety premises check.
3. Approval
Once your application has been approved we will notify
you in writing as to whether your application has been
accepted or not.
Should your application be accepted, we will visit you to
complete the required documentation and to give you
the opportunity to discuss any queries that you may
have.
If your application in not accepted, we will inform you as
to the reasons why.
33
Template parental agreement letter
Dated
Dear
Re: Property Address
Following the viewing at (address) today , .............. has expressed an interest in moving
into the supported, shared house that we manage, which enables fathers to have regular
access to their children and stay overnight at agreed times. I understand
from .................................that you have agreed that your children can stay with him at this
address at agreed times under his care and supervision. Therefore, could you please
sign and return this letter as confirmation of this and return this in the stamped addressed
envelope provided.
Name...................................................................
Signature............................................................
If you have any queries or wish to discuss anything further please contact me on
Yours Sincerely
Housing Project Worker
34
Example Matching Questionnaires
Matching Questionnaire 1
Be honest with your answers!
Do you want to share with?
1.
2.
3.
4.
Males only
Females only
Mixed house – both male and female?
I don’t mind
How many people would you like to share with?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
One
Two
There
Four
Five or more
Do you smoke?
1. Yes
2. No
What type of person would you like to share with?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sporty person
Eco - conscious
Studious person
Independent
Artistic
Are you a?
1. Sensitive person
2. Quiet person
3. Laid back person
4. A sociable person
5. A very outgoing person
Do you prefer a quiet house?
1. Yes
2. I don’t mind noise
Would you describe yourself as?
1. Social
2. Shy
35
What are your hobbies?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Sports
Study
Listen to music
Hanging out with friends
A mix of all
Are you?
1. A morning person
2. An evening person
What meals do usually cook at home?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
All
I don’t cook
What do you like to eat?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I like pretty much everything
like most food - a few thing I can’t stand
I like basic/simple food
I like convenience/fast food
I’m Vegetarian or vegan
When it comes to the tidiness, are you?
1. Very tidy
2. Quite tidy
3. Rather messy
4. Very messy
36
Matching Questionnaire 2
Living in shared accommodation
1. Have you lived with other people before? Y/N
………………………………………………………………………………………………………2.
How did it go? Was it easy or difficult?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
3. If it worked, what made it work?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
4. If not, why?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
5. How/why did the tenancy end?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Sharing with others
1. What do you think your responsibilities would be when sharing with others? Y/N
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
2. What tasks/jobs do you think it would be important for your housemates to do in the
property?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
3. How do you feel about sharing things like milk, cleaning stuff, etc?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
4. Which meals do you usually cook at home?
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
5. Are you tidy/quite tidy/a bit messy/v. messy?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
6. Do you think there should be a cleaning rota? Y/N
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
7. What about house rules/meetings?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
37
8. What if your housemates had mates overnight to stay?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
9. What would be the one thing that a housemate would do that would make you like living
with them?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
10. What would upset you?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
Lifestyle
1. How would you describe yourself?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
2. Studying/working/looking for work? Y/N
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
3. How do you spend your free time?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
4. Are you quiet/laid back/sociable/outgoing?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
5. What sort of people don’t you get along with?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
6. Any food (alcohol, meat, etc) that you would prefer not to be around for religious or
cultural reasons? Y/N
……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
38
Template House Meeting Record Pro-former
HOUSE MEETING RECORD
House Mates Present:
ITEM
1. Apologies (given
in Advance)
2. Rent top-ups
3. Training and
employment
plans
4. General living
issues and
repairs
5. Other Matters
Date and time of next
House Meeting
39
NOTES
Scheme Staff Present:
Action By
Example cleaning rota
CLEANING ROTA
Name
Date :
Please sign when completed
Clean inside of cooker
Clean and wipe out Kitchen fridge
Clean inside and outside
microwave
Hoover all carpets
Wash kitchen floor
Wash bathroom floor
Clean bathroom cabinets
40
Sharers’ charter
We recognise that we are all responsible for the things we share in common. Therefore, we
agree:
1. to share the following and to allow each other equal access:
kitchen
washing machine/dryer
TV, remote control and DVD
If there are any arguments over what to watch [
]
2. not to use up all the hot water
3. not to have the heating on unless the others agree
4. to pay our share of all bills (including any top-up for the rent) and to contribute £[ ] per
week to a kitty for common items such as toilet paper and washing up liquid.
We recognise each other people’s right to live in a clean and peaceful environment. Therefore
we agree:
5. to keep the common areas tidy. This includes cleaning the bathroom and washing up
6. not to play our stereo, radio or TV so loud at night that it can be heard outside our room.
If our music is annoying another resident or neighbour at any time it must be turned
down
7. not to smoke cigarettes/only to smoke cigarettes in [
]
8. to tell the others in advance if we wish to have more than one visitor and to make sure
our visitors do not cause any nuisance
9. not to threaten one another and to sort out disagreements as peacefully as possible.
We recognise that we all have our own possessions and need our own space. Therefore, we
agree:
10. not to borrow anything without permission
11. not to use one another’s food without permission
12. to keep out of one another’s rooms unless invited.
41
Template lead tenant budget sheet
LEAD TENANT BUDGET SHEET
Lead tenant:
Tenants:
Tenancy
start date:
Property address:
HOUSEHOLD BILLS / FUNDS PAYMENT RECORD
SHEET 2014/2015
Payment in (Name)
e.g. Ryan Smith
42
Date
21/10/14
Purpose of
payment
Household Bills
Amount
(£)
10.00
Received by X
(Lead Tenant)
Total of
£ in box
Template peer mentor job description
PEER MENTOR JOB DESCRIPTION
This role description has been designed to provide detailed information on a specific
voluntary role at (scheme name).
Role:
Department/ Project:
Location:
Timings:
Peer Mentor
6-9 months’ work placement
Work placement 2 days a week
Study Day / Job Search 1 day a week
Mon-Fri 10am 4pm (flexible)
Tasks & Responsibilities
Principle
As a Peer Mentor and with the guidance of your supervisor you will:










43
Undertake and complete your Advice & Guidance QCF Level 3 qualification.
Process all referrals from clients under 35 or those considering shared
accommodation and have an understanding of the importance of carrying out
joint casework with (scheme) staff who are responsible for supporting the clients
in engagement/education/employment
Carry out full assessments of clients’ readiness to sustain PRS accommodation
and agree objectives to form an action plan with each client regarding their
property search
You will provide support to clients in identifying suitable, affordable and reliable
sources of shared accommodation
Take part and assist with planning and delivering group workshops and tenant
matching events to ensure that clients are fully prepared for moving into shared
accommodation
Assist clients to understand and complete their Housing Benefit applications as
required
Assist the scheme staff and clients to arrange and accompany them on viewings
to properties and learn how to support them in negotiating with landlords where
appropriate. This will include ensuring that the property meets safety standards
and is well maintained
Assist clients to have an understanding of the conditions of their tenancy
agreement and agreeing supporting clients to establish regular payment of rent
and service charges to their landlord
Provide clients with practical support to equip their rented accommodation. e.g.
setting up utilities
Provide post-tenancy sustainment support and carry out follow up visits once the
client is housed. This will include facilitating “house meetings” and encouraging
clients to develop skills in managing and living in shared accommodation

Input client and outcome data accurately and timely
General



Develop and maintain an understanding of the charity’s work and the needs and
circumstances of homeless people
Comply with (scheme name) policies and procedures, including Health and Safety
policies, for which all employees and volunteers owe of duty of care both to
themselves and others, in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act
Carry out any other duties that maybe relevant to the role
Skills & Experience







Full commitment to complete their Advice & Guidance QCF Level 3 Qualification
Excellent attention to detail
Good time management skills
Good organisational skills
Good working knowledge of MS Office, Word, Excel and Outlook
Applicants who are (scheme) clients must have completed the Crisis Preparing to
Volunteer course
A satisfactory enhanced disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service is
required for this role
Support/Volunteer Gains






Informative and structured induction to the role and organisation
Lunch and Travel Expenses (within Greater London) reimbursed
Regular Supervisions
On the job training
Gain experience of working in a setting where vulnerable people are supported into
shared accommodation in the Private Rented sector
Support with portfolio work to ensure timely and successful completion of Advice &
Guidance QCF Level 3 qualification
Recruitment Method:
Application Form > Interview > References
44
Property sharing protocol
PROPERTY SHARING PROTOCOL
Background
There are currently separate schemes operating in London facilitating access to private
rented sector accommodation for those are either homeless or at risk of homelessness and
are not considered in priority need. To work more cohesively together to source
accommodation, schemes are encouraged to have a landlord/property sharing protocol in
place.
Protocol
1.
A scheme gets details of a property that is affordable and that will accept housing
benefit. The details may come either from a landlord or agent that they have links
with, or through their own search, or through being identified by a client.
2.
After relevant viewings and discussions the scheme identifies that the property is not
suitable for any of their clients because it is not in the right area or they do not have
any relevant clients, etc.
3.
If appropriate, the scheme will let the landlord or agent know that they do not have a
suitable client for the property, but that they will send it out to contacts.
4.
The scheme then emails details of the property to the schemes that have signed up
to the protocol, with as much detail about the property and with photographs if
possible.
5.
If any of the protocol members have clients who may be interested in the property
they will contact the scheme that originally sent the information out to get the details
of landlord or agent.
6.
The scheme will contact the landlord or agent directly to set up a viewing, making
note of where the lead came from.
It is recognised that schemes make a lot of effort building links with landlords and agents.
Where another scheme that signed up to the protocol creates a relationship with a landlord
or agent the original scheme should still be the main point of contact for that landlord or
agent.
45