I've been renting a room for the last five years - technically as a lodger as my Landlord also lives at the flat. Lovely guy and we get along really well, hence the long stay.
He has now told me that he'd be moving abroad towards the end of October.
He gave laid out three options:
- New tenant for his room, I would have final say who moves in, both are equal tenants
- I become the "main" tenant and sublet the room
- I move as well - This option is a no from me as I like the area and the flat, I have already indicated as much
I'm a bit undecided regarding the first two options regarding the advantages and risks of both. I know with option 2 I'd be liable for the full rent, even if the new tenant does not pay, but the it has the appeal of me having a greater say, if that makes sense.
All bills would be split equally.
Am also wondering, what documentation I should ask for from the new person, what background checks (for the lack of a better term), etc.
Unfortunately, there is no option for me to rent the flat on my own as I simply cannot afford it.
It all came as a bit of a shock to me and my mind is still reeling a little, not helped by the fact that I did not sleep very much the night after he told me. Could you please help me trying to make sense of it all and sort my thoughts?