Guest Policy: What Tenants and Landlords Should Know

Ever wondered how many friends you can have over before the landlord knocks on your door? A clear guest policy can stop that awkward moment before it starts. Whether you’re renting a flat in London or managing a set of properties, the rules around visitors matter for safety, insurance, and good neighbour relations.

First off, the law lets landlords set reasonable limits on how long a guest can stay. "Reasonable" usually means a few nights in a row – anything more can be treated as a sub‑let, which most leases forbid without written consent. So, if a friend wants to crash for a weekend, you’re fine. If they plan a month‑long stay, you should check the lease or ask the landlord.

Key Elements of a Good Guest Policy

1. Duration limits. Most policies cap overnight stays at 14 days per year. This number can vary, but keeping it under two weeks avoids confusion. Write the limit into the lease or provide a separate guest addendum.

2. Notification requirement. Some landlords ask tenants to let them know before a guest arrives, especially for long stays. A quick email or text saying, "My sister will be staying from 5‑10 May," is usually enough.

3. Guest conduct. The tenant is still responsible for their guests’ behaviour. If a visitor damages the property or breaks a rule, the tenant can be held liable. Make it clear that “your guests follow the same house rules as you.”

Practical Tips for Tenants

Want to keep peace with your landlord? Here are three no‑brainer steps:

Ask before you host. Even if the lease doesn’t explicitly require it, a heads‑up shows respect and keeps paperwork out of the way.

Keep a guest log. Jot down names and dates of overnight stays. It’s handy if the landlord ever asks for proof of compliance.

Know the insurance impact. Some policies tie guest limits to the building’s insurance coverage. Exceeding the limit could void the landlord’s insurance, and you might end up paying for damages.

For landlords, a solid guest policy protects your investment and reduces risk. Include it as a clause in the tenancy agreement, or hand out a one‑page guide at move‑in. Make sure the language is plain – tenants are more likely to follow rules they understand.

Finally, remember that communication is the secret sauce. If a tenant wants a longer‑term guest, discuss options like a formal licence add‑on or a short‑term tenancy agreement. Flexibility can keep good tenants happy and prevent costly evictions.

In short, a clear guest policy is a win‑win. Tenants know what’s allowed, landlords keep the property safe, and everyone avoids awkward confrontations over who’s staying the night. Keep it simple, write it down, and talk it out when needed – that’s all you really need for a smooth rental experience.