How To Take in a Boarder

Know what you’re getting into. Because a boarder is sharing your home, they are not legally considered a tenant. That means you are not entitled to help in evicting them from either the police or your local housing court. If there’s a problem, you’ll have to file in civil court to get them legally ejected.

Contact the National Shared Housing Resource Center to see if your city or state has a nonprofit home-sharing service that will screen boarders for you. If not, ask friends, family, and members of your religious community if they can refer anyone.

When interviewing prospects, compare your lifestyles and expectations. Discuss issues like smoking in the house, entertaining guests, pets, noise curfews, cleaning, and kitchen privileges.

Once you’ve found someone compatible, ask for references. Consider paying for a background check.

Write out all the house rules you agreed upon, sign the document, and ask them to do the same.

Be gracious to your new boarder. While it is still your home, remember that they are paying to live there, so afford them the proper privacy and respect.