Letting Agents Sheffield

Strictly speaking no. A minor (ie someone under 18) is legally incapable of owning an interest in land.

If the minor signs the tenancy agreement as sole tenant, this will take effect as a contract by the landlord/grantor of the tenancy to hold this in trust for the minor. This is not a good idea.

The best thing to do is to have an adult sign as co-tenant.  They will then be able to hold the tenancy on the minor’s behalf, and also act as guarantor.

It is important though that the minor signs too, as minors can be held liable under contracts for ‘necessaries’. This will include the rent.

So the minor will not be a tenant but can be held liable for the rent and can be sued for it if necessary.

Once the minor reaches 18, a new tenancy agreement can be signed in his or her sole name.

 

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