Subletting/ letting your home

We provide affordable low-cost home ownership for those who could not otherwise afford to buy a home. We need to make sure our homes go to those most in need. We do not sell shared ownership properties to those who intend to rent (sublet) the property in order to make a profit.

As a homeowner, you do not have an automatic right to sublet your property, you must have our permission. If you want to sublet your home and you have good reason, we may allow you to sublet for a short time. We only give permission to sublet in exceptional circumstances. You will also need permission from your mortgage lender.

If we agree you can sublet and you do not fulfil your responsibilities as a landlord we will take action against you.

Situations where permission may be granted

We will consider giving permission for you to sublet if it will help prevent / relieve significant hardship. For example, if you:

• cannot sell the property because it is worth less than the money you borrowed to buy it;
• have medical needs / care for a sick relative and subletting will help your situation;
• have temporary employment and it is too far from your home to travel to;
• need to live away from home for a limited time for training / education;
• are in prison;
• or are unemployed and need to limit your debts.

The above list is not exhaustive, we consider each application on its merits.

We will take legal action against you if you sublet without our permission.

Making an application to sublet

When you contact us to enquire about subletting we will send you an application form and a guide to subletting your shared ownership home. We will also send you a copy of the assured shorthold tenancy you need to use if we agree you can sublet. This is a legal document setting out the rights and responsibilities of the resident and the landlord. The tenancy may set the contract period, which will be at least six months.

You need to complete and return the application. Before we make a decision you need to:

• let us know why you need to sublet.You also need to provide supporting evidence;
• let us know how long you intend to sublet for;
• confirm your mortgage lender has agreed you can sub-let;
• and pay a £42 administration fee. The fee is non-refundable.

We will let you know our decision within 10 working days of receiving your application. If we agree you can proceed, you will need to sign and return two copies of the Licence to Sublet form. You also need to confirm the tenancy start date, your contact details, and details of any agent acting for you. We will counter-sign the Licence to Sublet and return a copy to you.

We will let you know how long you can sublet for; this will usually be for a period of 6 or 12 months. You will need to provide good reason for us to extend the period for longer than this.

You cannot charge your tenant more than the amount you pay in rent, service charges and mortgage costs.

Your role as landlord

In your role as the landlord you are legally responsible for the behaviour of anyone living in the property. We may take legal action against you if your tenant is a nuisance and you do not take appropriate action.

You are also legally responsible for the safety of the property. You will need to arrange for an annual Gas Safety inspection and certificate.