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Subletting frequently asked questions (FAQs)
FAQs and information on subletting.
| Question | Summary Answer |
|---|---|
| What is considered a sublet? | When the leaseholder does not live at the property and another person resides there, usually paying rent. |
| Are there restrictions on subletting? | Yes. Short lets under 6 months, multiple households, Airbnb-style letting, and HMOs are not permitted. |
| Do I still need to register if I have a Property Licence? | Yes, sublet registration is separate from the council licensing scheme. |
| What happens if I do not register? | You may breach your lease, affect insurance cover, breach mortgage terms, and council records may be inaccurate. |
| Is the sublet registration fee annual? | No. It applies per tenancy. Each new tenancy requires new registration. |
| What legal requirements must I meet? | Gas safety, EPC, deposit protection, right-to-rent checks, and compliance with government letting guidance. |
| Do I need insurance? | Yes. Landlord insurance with liability cover is recommended. |
| What are my financial responsibilities? | Pay tax on rental income, service charges, and obtain lender permission if mortgaged. |
What is considered a sublet?
A sublet occurs when the property is not your main residence, and another person lives there—typically paying rent.
Are there restrictions on subletting?
Yes. London Borough of Barking and Dagenham does not permit:
- tenancies less than 6 months
- sublets involving more than one household
- Airbnb-style or short-term holiday lets where the leaseholder is not resident
- HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)
I have a Property Licence. Do I still need to pay the sublet registration fee?
Yes. All leaseholders must register their sublet if the property is not their main residence. Notification must be made within one calendar month. This is required under the lease and the building insurance policy (Protector Insurance). Each new tenancy must be registered, and renewals must include updated contact details and a signed renewal document. A Property Licence is a separate requirement and does not replace sublet registration.
What happens if I do not register a sublet property?
Failure to register may result in:
- jeopardised insurance cover
- breach of mortgage terms
- breach of lease terms, with potential legal action
- inaccurate council records that may affect service delivery
Do I need to pay the Sublet Registration fee every year?
No. The fee applies per tenancy. New tenants require new registration; renewals only require updated documentation.
What legal requirements must I meet as a landlord?
You must comply with all legal obligations, including government How to Let and How to Rent guidance, Gas Safety Certificate (if applicable), EPC, safe installation of gas/electrical systems, deposit protection within 30 days, Right to Rent checks, and provision of the How to Rent checklist.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Landlord insurance covering fixtures, fittings, and liability is required. Optional cover for loss of rent and legal expenses is recommended. Independent advice should be sought.
What are my financial responsibilities?
You must pay Income Tax on rental income, continue to pay service charges and ground rent, and obtain mortgage lender consent before subletting.