A Residential Lodger Agreement is usually employed in circumstances where:

• Shared Living Space: The Licensor and Licensee live together in the same property, with the Licensee having access to shared facilities but not enjoying exclusive possession of any part of the property. This arrangement differs significantly from a traditional tenancy, where exclusive possession of a space is a key feature.
• Excluded Licence Agreement: The document is designed for what is known as an "excluded licence" arrangement. In such an arrangement, the Licensee does not have the legal rights associated with a tenancy, such as the right to exclusive use of their room or protection under certain statutory regulations. This makes it an ideal choice for short-term and flexible lodging situations.
• Residential Purposes: The agreement is strictly for residential use, where the primary purpose is to provide living accommodation within a shared home. It is not suitable for commercial lettings or for properties where the Licensor does not reside.

Key features of a Residential Lodger Agreement are:

• Non-Exclusive Possession: Unlike a tenancy agreement, a lodger agreement does not grant the Licensee exclusive rights to any part of the property. The Licensee shares the living space with the Licensor and possibly other lodgers, creating a more communal living environment.
• Shared Facilities: The Licensee will have access to certain common areas of the property, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. These shared spaces are part of the appeal of a lodging arrangement, allowing for a more integrated living experience.
• Flexibility in Termination: Given the informal and temporary nature of most lodging arrangements, a lodger agreement allows for greater flexibility when it comes to termination. The Licensor can end the arrangement with shorter notice periods than would typically be required under a tenancy agreement, reflecting the transient nature of such living situations.
• Licensor's Responsibilities: While the Licensor may provide certain services, such as utilities or basic maintenance, the agreement does not impose the same level of obligation that a landlord would have under a traditional tenancy agreement. The assumption is that the arrangement will be relatively short-term, and therefore, the Licensor’s responsibilities are more limited.

 Please note - property owners should be aware of their legal responsibilities, including those related to the right to rent checks as mandated by the Immigration Act 2014. It is essential to ensure that the Licensee has the legal right to occupy the property. Additionally, if the property qualifies as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), the Licensor must comply with any relevant local authority regulations. In addition, before taking in a lodger, the Licensor should inform their insurance provider and, if applicable, their mortgage lender. Certain mortgage agreements or insurance policies may have restrictions or require specific permissions for lodgers.

This Residential Lodger Agreement is in Microsoft Word format, written in plain English easy to use and edit. It clearly outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the Licensor and the Licensee, ensuring that both parties have a mutual understanding of the terms of the arrangement, providing a framework for a harmonious and legally sound living situation.