An additional occupier does not automatically become a joint tenant or contract-holder. Establish what is requested and which legal and property checks it triggers.
Clarify the arrangement
- Ask whether the person will be a guest, resident partner, lodger or proposed joint tenant.
- Record the intended move date and effect on existing occupants.
- Check the current agreement and any consent already given.
Check the home
- Recalculate people and households for HMO and licence purposes.
- Check room and overall occupancy restrictions and any genuine safety implications.
- In England, assess any relevant right-to-rent requirement through the official guidance.
Document the outcome
- Distinguish permission to occupy from contractual liability for rent.
- Review deposits and guarantees if the legal parties change.
- Update contacts and emergency information proportionately and give relevant documents to any new contractual party.
Example: an occupier is added to the contact list
A fictional landlord adds a partner's telephone number for repairs. That administrative update alone does not make the partner a joint tenant or guarantor. Record the agreed legal status separately.
What to do
- Confirm who will move in and the proposed status.
- Check occupancy, licensing and country-specific requirements.
- Document any lawful permission or change without rewriting history.
Evidence to keep
- Request, household assessment and relevant licence conditions.
- Permission, variation or new agreement and updated records.
Sources and guidance
- Standard occupation contracts: guidance on the termsWelsh Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Assured periodic tenancies: landlord guideUK Government · checked 20 October 2026
- Checking a tenant’s right to rentHome Office · checked 20 October 2026
- Applying for an HMO licenceScottish Government · checked 20 October 2026