Licence to Occupy for Landscaper Handyman?
I have a property that has become vacant. I also have a guy/acquaintance who is a Landscaper and Handyman I’ve known on and off for 30 years who is down on his luck having split from his wife.
He’s always been honest and reliable and has done good work for me in the past, albeit 25 years ago.
The property has an acre of land attached which is completely overgrown with brambles and unwanted plants and the previous tenants left the place in need of a complete interior and exterior repaint.
We have spoken and I’m quite happy to let this guy live there rent free for a few months as long as he accepts responsibility for the utilities and Council Tax and whilst he’s there he will do all the jobs including clearing the land, (big old job) and all the painting. I will cover the costs of materials and fuel for his strimmers, chainsaws etc.
Obviously no money will change hands, he will have a roof over his head and somewhere his children can visit, and I get the jobs done.
We have also agreed that I can enter at any time or even stay over so it’s not an AST.
As I’ve said: I trust this guy but still have to protect myself.
Will a Licence to Occupy be sufficient?
Godfrey
Comments
Have Your Say
Every day, landlords who want to influence policy and share real-world experience add their voice here. Your perspective helps keep the debate balanced.
Not a member yet? Join In Seconds
Login with
Previous Article
Criminal landlords will lose benefit payments under Labour planNext Article
Service charges soar to hit record high
Member Since January 2020 - Comments: 559
10:39 AM, 17th February 2025, About 1 year ago
Reply to the comment left by Godfrey Jones at 17/02/2025 – 10:34
Godfrey, please get some professional advice. You are in danger of creating a massive problem for no good reason.
Member Since September 2024 - Comments: 95
11:52 AM, 21st February 2025, About 1 year ago
Reply to the comment left by Graham Bowcock at 17/02/2025 – 10:39Thank you for your advice guys. I’m pleased to say the work is almost complete and the Licensee has given me notice he’s leaving.
Whilst I appreciate many of your concerns and take on board that this situation could have gone so very wrong, personally I can only say it has been a very worthwhile experience: I’ve helped someone with a roof over their head and at the same time had my jobs done and I haven’t had to pay the Council Tax or utilities. So thanks to all of you who replied, especially Graham Bowcock.