need extra insurance if taking a lodger?

Hi
(not sure which forum to put this in so feel free to move it mods)

Just sorting out buildings and contents insurance and mentioned that I might take a lodger (pay cuts coming!). Only one of the companies said I'd need public liability insurance included if I do. Is this true? Can a lodger sue you if they trip on the stairs?

Gordanus said:

Hi
Can a lodger sue you if they trip on the stairs?

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They could,

Do inform insurance copmany you are renting out,

money from lodger may be tax free. Someone may be able to advise.

thanks theengineer.

I'd read up a lot on the Rent-a-Room scheme, and I'm covered under that ie no tax to pay. Had read up on the license (they're not tenants, they're licencees), various agreements, what you have to provide in terms of furniture, bedding etc, but nowhere mentioned the extra public liability insurance. I've taken it out now anyway, seeing how litigious the Irish tend to be!

I suppose for an insurance company there are benefits to have a lodger, as the house is less likely to be unoccupied etc.

Hope it works out, and great to hear it is tax free for you.

theengineer said:

I suppose for an insurance company there are benefits to have a lodger, as the house is less likely to be unoccupied etc.

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When I enquired with my insurance company regarding having a lodger, they thought the opposite - with someone else living in the house they would likely be more visitors, therefore more chance of stuff being damaged or stolen. I think they felt I would have less control over who entered my home.